This hotel is supposed to be the best in Amsterdam. It combines modern luxury and history.
I stayed here for a weekend in late autumn and it was a lovely stay but not very memorable.
The hotel is in a great location, situated on a pretty canal in the centre of the city. Amsterdam is very easy to get around, you can walk almost anywhere. Sofitel The Grand is 5 min walk away from the Red Light district. It sounds a little offensive but really isn’t. If anything it is a bit of fun to walk down there and check out the unusual scenery.
Prestige Suite
We stayed in a Prestige Suite which was comfortable but was very bare and had dated furniture.
This suite is completely missing any special touches or WOW factor.
Bedroom is fairly small but the bed is comfortable.
Bathroom is spacious and Hermes amenities are always a treat.
The suites are supposed to come with butler service but we haven’t seen the butler at all apart from when he picked up our laundry. I think in this hotel it is more of a ‘name’ than an actual service.
Breakfast – was served in Bridges restaurant – it is a lovely room overlooking the canal. The selection at the buffet was great, fit for a 5 star hotel. No complains there.
Indoor Pool is gorgeous and warm. It was a real treat after a day of walking. Highly recommend it, combined with the lovely spa / steam room experience.
The gym is small but modern and very functional. We used it a couple of times and were pleased with it.
The Bar / Lounge is a really cozy place for an afternoon drink by the fireplace. It is one of the most inviting places in the hotel – if only the suites had the same feel…
The service was friendly but nothing special.
All in All – It is a good but not great 5 star hotel in an excellent location. Our stay was pleasant but not memorable.
Downside – older furniture in rooms and suites, lack of tasteful soft furnishings and decorations in the suites, very old look and feel of the hotel’s public area especially the halls.
Would we return? Probably not as it is a little too dated for The Lux Traveller’s taste. Will try The Conservatorium next time as it looks more modern and luxurious.
I’d like to finish by saying that Amsterdam is a stunning city, equally beautiful in winter and in summer. No matter whether you choose The Grand, Hotel de l’Europe or Conservatorium you’ll have a great time. Explore the city by foot or in a Dutch style – on the bike. Visit art museums (Rembrandt House, Van Gogh museums and so many others), have lunch in any of the gorgeous little cafes by the canal, explore the Red Light District, have a dance in one of the little bars around the main square and have fun! Amsterdam is designed for it!
