1926–2026: Le Roannay Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary
1926–2026: Le Roannay Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary
This year, Le Roannay reaches a symbolic milestone: 100 years of existence. Since 1926, our establishment has welcomed travellers, gastronomy enthusiasts, lovers of the region, and visitors to the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit. A century later, the story continues with the same ambition: to offer our guests an experience where hospitality, conviviality, and quality remain at the heart of everything we do.
An Anniversary Year
To mark this exceptional anniversary, several events and surprises will be organised throughout the year.
The first highlight will be the 100th Anniversary Gourmet Brunch, taking place on Sunday, 21 June 2026. Specially created for the occasion by Michelin-starred Chef Mathieu Vande Velde and his team, this brunch will showcase exceptional products through a generous selection of savoury and sweet creations.
Additional initiatives will follow in the coming months, including exclusive offers, a new stay package, and a special closing event designed to celebrate this centenary together with our guests.
A Respectful Transformation
In June 2021, just a few months after acquiring the Hostellerie, which was looking for a new owner, Roger Gehlen and Vicky Bosquin of the GEHLEN & UNIBOX Groups unveiled their renovation project. The objective was to modernise the establishment and expand its offerings while preserving the spirit that has built its reputation for nearly a century.
For almost a year, the companies of the Gehlen Group and their partners carried out an extensive renovation and expansion project. Existing spaces were completely redesigned, and a new wing was built to accommodate the hotel’s rooms and suites.
Among the iconic features preserved is the former barn, whose renovation represented one of the project’s greatest challenges. Today, it continues to contribute significantly to the unique character of the property, offering spacious interiors and authentic charm at the heart of the Michelin-starred restaurant.
Le Roannay Today
Since reopening in 2022, Le Roannay has offered an experience combining a four-star hotel, a gourmet restaurant, a lounge brasserie, a private wellness area, and spaces dedicated to professional and private events.
In March 2023, only a few months after reopening, the restaurant regained its Michelin star under the leadership of Chef Mathieu Vande Velde. This distinction continues the gastronomic legacy of the establishment. Today, Le Roannay welcomes both loyal local guests and visitors from across Belgium and abroad, attracted by its privileged location near the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit and the High Fens.
A Little History…
The adventure began in 1926 with the Aubinet family. Originally a simple family forge, the building gradually evolved into a café and later a hotel-restaurant, accompanying the development of Francorchamps and the growth of tourism in the region.
Under the leadership of Yvon Aubinet and later Bernard Aubinet, Le Roannay became a renowned destination. In 1962, the restaurant received its first Michelin star, which it retained for 28 consecutive years.
The proximity of the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit also helped build the establishment’s reputation, welcoming numerous personalities from the world of motorsport over the years.
One hundred years after opening its doors, Le Roannay remains, more than ever, a place of encounters, gastronomy, and emotions, looking towards the future while remaining faithful to its heritage.
