About us
An oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Ghent
About Het Rustpunt
Welcome to Het Rustpunt, a unique place where history, tranquillity and modern comfort come together. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century Carmelite monastery, Het Rustpunt offers a special accommodation experience in the historic centre of Ghent. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful night’s stay, an inspiring venue for a meeting or a place for reflection, at Het Rustpunt you’ll find the ideal setting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.
Staying in a historic convent in Ghent
Het Rustpunt is situated in the authentic Carmelite convent on Prinsenhof in Ghent. Our fully renovated rooms combine the charm of the historic building with all modern comforts, so you can enjoy your stay in complete tranquillity. The grounds also feature the charming guesthouses De Kluis, Thérèse and Het Achterhuis. Each offers a unique experience in serene, green surroundings, within walking distance of Ghent’s main attractions.
Meetings, events and retreats
As well as comfortable accommodation, Het Rustpunt offers a range of stylish function rooms for a variety of occasions.
Our venues are suitable for, amongst other things:
- Meetings
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Training courses
- Parties and receptions
- Gatherings
- Retreats and days of reflection
Thanks to its peaceful surroundings, historic charm and central location in Ghent, Het Rustpunt is the ideal venue for both business and personal events. We also organise a varied programme of activities, retreats and inspiring gatherings throughout the year.
Interested? Take a look at the calendar for an overview of all our events. Please note: all events are in Dutch
The history of the Carmelite monastery
Het Rustpunt is situated in the historic Carmelite monastery in the heart of Ghent, a unique heritage site with a rich history dating back to 1272. In 1653, the Discalced Carmelites (Discalces) settled on the site of the Leeuwenhof, close to the Prinsenhof. Here they built a monastery and the impressive Baroque monastery church, which was consecrated in 1714. What is particularly remarkable is that the friars themselves were involved in the design of the church and created much of the intricate woodcarving.
Over the centuries, the monastery experienced both periods of prosperity and difficult times. It was dissolved during the French Revolution, but in 1801 the Carmelites returned and it once again became an important centre of spirituality, contemplation and hospitality.
Today, this historic monastery in Ghent is home to Het Rustpunt: a unique accommodation where heritage, tranquillity and comfort come together. Guests stay in an authentic monastery with modern comforts and discover a hidden oasis of tranquillity within walking distance of Ghent’s main attractions.
Would you like to find out more about the history of the Carmelite Order and Carmelite spirituality?
Discover Carmelitana
The Carmelites’ Monastery Shop
During your stay, you are warmly welcome to visit Carmelitana, the monastery shop and publishing house of the Carmelite monastery in Ghent.
This atmospheric meeting place invites you to find inspiration, reflection and personal growth.
You will find an extensive and carefully curated selection of inspiring books, Bibles, greeting cards, religious items, abbey products, incense, novena candles, art objects and unique gifts. In addition, Carmelitana offers a wide choice of products from various abbeys, such as honey, tea, personal care products and other authentic monastic specialities.
Carmelitana is also a publishing house specialising in books on Christian spirituality, mysticism, meditation and the Carmelite tradition. Particular attention is paid to contemporary themes relating to meaning, faith and the dialogue between spirituality and psychology. Whether you are looking for an inspiring book, a meaningful gift or a tangible memento of your stay, at Carmelitana you will find products that bring together tranquillity, beauty and depth.