After a stay in Brugge and looking for an "off -the-beaten-path" countryside setting, we found a haven in Spa. Without reservations and hearing of a nearby F1 racetrack, we checked into the Hotel Cardinal in the center of Spa. The following amenities made for a delightful respite: located in the heart of downtown (casino, spa waterworks, restaurants, weekend flea market, shopping all within walking distance); a short drive to another intriguing village, Stavelot, where an ancient abbey hosts a spectacular F1 museum (interested in F1 racing and motorcycle history? You'll be in heaven!); more-than-reasonable room rates--friendly, helpful staff, morning breakfast , clean/modern amenities. On some occasions, local road-rally enthusiasts cue up across from the Cardinal... great car watching! more