If you’re someone who looks for accommodation that not only offers a comfortable place to rest your head, but also delivers a ton of quirky touches to enhance your overnight stay, look no further than indoor camping at Treck Hostel.
Nestled a comfortable 20 minute walk from the centre of Gent in Belgium this eccentric hostel housed in a converted brick factory offers its guests the opportunity to stay in caravans, rent a tent or simply offer a space on the floor for guests to pitch their own.
All under one roof each caravan and dedicated ‘patio’ space is fitted out to its individual theme. From the Retro caravan with shelves of old records and old fashioned armchairs to the Hawaii caravan, decorated with surfboards and leis to set the tropical mood. And comfort isn’t sacrificed, each caravan has comfortable double beds and cosy bedding to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep.
In a separate space is the play area with swing set, slide, a ton of toys, ping pong and even a theatre caravan where you can pick a few flicks, settle in and binge watch rom-coms for the night. Or step outside for fresh air in the sun soaked terrace with tons of seating areas to relax in, or challenge some new friends to a game of pétanque a game similar to bocce or bowls.
For those on a budget or travelling long term there is a communal kitchen available. And after whipping up a masterpiece in the kitchen there’s a bar downstairs, truly a highlight of the hostel. The place where after a long day sightseeing you can pull up a stool, sip on a local Belgian beer and get to know your international neighbours. If beer isn’t your thing sample a hot chocolate, served as steamed milk with a separate bowl of chocolate chips to stir in, or try a Roomer. A delicious elderflower flavoured aperitif originating from Gent. At 15% alcohol it’s sure to get you in the mood for a late night out in Belgium’s liveliest student city.
The bar also plays host to home-grown bands that attract neighbourhood locals, you’d be forgiven for forgetting you’re sitting in a hostel and thinking you’re in a local hangout.
Included in the cost of your stay is breakfast, served daily in the bar it’s a smorgasbord of breads, cheeses, fruit, cereals and even chocolate if you like to start your day indulging your sweet tooth. If your stay falls on a Sunday you’ll be treated to extended brunch hours and a selection of cakes and pastries.
Offering bikes for hire, Treck make it easy for you to get out and explore town but it is hard to tear yourself away from this place. Aside from offering plenty of entertainment within the hostel, the staff are among the friendliest you’ll meet. Always greeting you with a smile, they’ll get to know you, your name and your story. You might come to Treck Hostel for the novelty but you’ll stay for the atmosphere. Checking in at Treck is like being welcomed into a family.
A far cry from your typical hostel Treck has successfully combined the adventure of camping with the social aspect of a hostel in a funky indoor space with plenty of privacy for couples, families with young kids or solo travellers looking for a break from a dorm. And it’s this diverse mix of travellers passing through that add to the eclectic lodgings.
For up to date rates and availability visit their website.