Huis Windels is a gem, located at number 46 – 48 Ijzerenleen it is one of the oldest businesses in Mechelen.  In 1875 August and Catherine Windels Holvoet founded a factory and smoking Cigar shop.  141 years later it is still a Cigar shop and more!

The 4th Generation (Charles and Anne Windels Deltour) continued the production of handmade Cigars (Mechelese Kantjes) until such the sales of Cigars where decreasing and there was slump in the tobacco industry.

The Factory was sold and has subsequently been turned into Le Mecure Hotel (also part of the building was an old Fish Smokehouse) located in the Vis Markt.  It is possible to pop into the Hotel to see some of the equipment that was used during the manufacture of the Cigars.

 

In November 2015, Windels re-opened their store to present a new contemporary styling to the shop. The wonderful open facade is indeed welcoming to the visitor and you can easily view all the delights. By adding more space, the store has increased its range of Spirits and also included an integrated humidor which provides the perfect temperature conditions to maintain the Cigars.

Huis Windels not only has a great selection of Spirits, Cigars it also has a wide selection of Pipe paraphernalia for the discerning Pipe smoker.  Regular events are hold at Huis Windels, including Pipe Smoking tastings and the very popular Whiskey Tastings (many are booked well in advance).  Prices are reasonably priced at around €35 – €40.00 and include bread, water and chocolate to help neutralise the taste buds during the tasting.  Generally they last for 2-3 hours and up to 25 people can participate.   It is recommended to keep abreast of the Tasting Events on their website for further information.

It was indeed a pleasure to have met Catherine Windels and Phillippe Hoeckx – they are extremely welcoming and highly knowledgeable.  It is indeed a challenge to continue a family business when times are changing, yet they are indeed moving with the times.  Their staff Wouter and Michael are extremely knowledgeable and can advise well when looking for a gift for that special occasion or celebration.

For further information please visit Huis Windels website  or why not pop into the shop in Mechelen.

The address is:

Address
Ijzerenleen 46 – 48
2800 Mechelen
Belgium

Opening Hours

Tuesday – Saturday open from 9 am to 18 pm
Sunday Monday – Closed

Contact Details
Phone 015/28 70 93
E-mail 
Website www.huiswindels.be
Follow on Facebook