The apartment we had (Onze-Lieve-Vrouw) has a huge living room that comfortably accommodates a dining table that could seat a dozen people. The kitchen is quite small and has no oven other than a microwave, but is otherwise very well equipped, with doors to the terrace that overlooks the internal courtyard garden and pool.
Dealing with Nico before we arrived was excellent. He responded quickly to queries, and the online information centre he sends a link to makes sure you get to the right place easily, and know what to expect when there. It is a great idea, replicated with the provision of an ipad on arrival that stores the same info. The ipad offers other services too, none the least useful of which is to order breakfast items for delivery from a nearby patisserie.
As you enter through the impressive old doorway you first see the honour bar. Extensively stocked with an impressive array of Belgian beers, wines and soft drinks. All at prices only marginally above the supermarket.
I'd noticed HomeAway had sent an invoice that was higher than the original price Nico had confirmed, so he sorted it within minutes and left us a message on the ipad to that effect.
Our only slight concern (as the couple occupying the downstairs bedroom) was the noise of footsteps on the staircase and upstairs laminated floors. Not a big issue though compared to all the advantages of staying here - principally that you are 2 minutes stroll from restaurants that lead you to the main square - Grote Markt - within 5 minutes. Fabulous location, yet still quiet.
Not hugely impressed by the restaurants we tried, especially Bistro De Mosselkelder in Huidenvettersplein. I'd definitely say give it a miss - there is too much choice to risk getting the mediocre fare we had, with very overcooked 'Dover' sole that didn't look much like ones I've eaten before. Otherwise Burger & Burger in Philipstockstraat 2 minutes from the apartment had decent burgers and steaks, with friendly service. The food in Brasserie Vivaldi in Wijngaardstraat was very tasty, but my fillet steak was ruined by being cut lengthways down the middle, so it was cooked well done rather than medium. When I asked the excellent waiter we had why the chef might do that, he had no idea so asked the chef, whose reply was: "To cook it fast". My tip for the chef ? Cook it properly, not fast.
De Drie Koningen is a perfect place for a Bruges weekend - location, service, proprietor and comfort all get top marks