A year and a half ago, Cindy Stocman and her husband Laurent Choquet opened Agora – Wellness Suites & Spa in a stunning building with a listed façade on the Grand Place in Tournai. In addition to enjoying a luxurious stay in one of the three majestic suites, guests can indulge in a firming massage with Sothys essential oils or slimming treatments using Celestetic’s advanced technology on the ground floor. The establishment also serves as a stylish showcase for Thermes de Kain, the wellness center the couple runs just a bit further down the road.
Text: Anja Van Der Borght
Choosing between the three Agora suites is no easy task, as each one offers a completely unique atmosphere. The Bali Suite immerses you in exotic vibes, with serene blue tones, a relaxing infrared sauna, a mini pool with jets, and a Buddha statue. “Our goal was to create a sense of wonder and contrast between the historic charm of the Grand Place and a comfortable space filled with Bali’s colors, scents, and woods. It feels like a honeymoon suite overlooking the pool,” explains Laurent.
Imperial Dreams
The Suite Impérial is all about pure luxury and the building’s rich history. The centerpiece of the room is the imposing round bed and spacious whirlpool bath, while marble-look wall panels and a baroque chandelier amplify the grandeur. At the very top of the property, the Urban Loft Suite awaits—a family suite where space, comfort, and heritage blend for an unforgettable stay. We’re drawn in by the spotlighting of specific stones. “These are old blue stones we discovered during the renovation that originally adorned the building’s façade back in 1400,” says Laurent. The connection to the past is present everywhere. The name Agora refers to the historic Grand Place, while subtle decor elements reflect the building’s and city’s rich heritage. For instance, the building—except for the façade—was completely destroyed during WWI. “In the modern loft, we’ve incorporated real burnt wood and chose a parquet floor that evokes a similar atmosphere. Even the Suite Impérial’s terrace is made of burnt wood and offers a phenomenal view over the Grand Place and the Belfry.” The eagle on the façade recalls the time when a brasserie, L’Aigle, was located here and also refers to the imperial era, when a golden eagle adorned the Belfry. In short, while the suites are modern, history is omnipresent. After all, Tournai boasts a 2,000-year-old heritage with plenty of attractions. Enthusiasts should definitely visit the cathedral and the nearby folklore museum.
Harmony for Body and Skin
What further sets Agora apart is the wellness institute, specializing in slimming solutions and skin firming with personalized services. “We work with four advanced Celestetic devices: Bodyperfect, Cryotherapy, Pressotherapy, and Electro Muscle Training (EMT),” says Cindy. “This technology intensely stimulates muscles through electromagnetic impulses, enhancing muscle tone and firming, boosting fat burning, and improving skin elasticity.” We tested Celestetic’s popular Body Perfect treatment—a combination of lipocavitation, radiofrequency, and infrared—which specifically targets fat deposits and cellulite. The ultrasound technology was barely noticeable, save for a soft buzzing in the ears. “Many clients opt for a full treatment course to achieve even better results,” Cindy explains. “Maderotherapy is also particularly popular. This technique uses wooden instruments to stimulate blood circulation, reduce fat deposits, and sculpt the body. It’s often used for slimming purposes, skin tightening, and reducing cellulite. Through targeted pressure and movement, maderotherapy boosts lymphatic drainage, helps eliminate toxins, and promotes collagen production, contributing to firmer, smoother skin.” In short, Agora – Wellness Suites & Spa is where luxury, relaxation, and heritage come together.
Info Agora Tournai, Grand Place 62, 7500 Doornik, tel. 069 30.70.86, contact@agoratournai.be
