Opened in March, Citadines Canal Amsterdam makes a fine base from which to explore some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights
Location
Tucked among rows of tall and narrow houses typical of Amsterdam, Citadines Canal Amsterdam occupies a building that was once a weaver’s house. The entrance is private and serene, with its own spacious driveway.
The hotel enjoys the serenity of being part of a quiet residential neighbourhood and excellent access to Vijzelgracht metro station and the iconic canals of Amsterdam. Top tourist landmarks like Rijksmuseum is just a 10-minute walk from the hotel while Van Gogh Museum is 16 minutes away.
Facilities
First impressions matter, and I happened to arrive at Citadines Canal Amsterdam on a summer night, when the retiring sun had turned the sky blue, providing a beautiful contrast to the red brick exterior of the building. There was something utterly welcoming about white-framed windows with warm lights glowing from within.
Stepping through the front door, I came upon a lobby that looked like an enormous living room in someone’s home. The generous use of wood fittings, eclectic mix of furniture, and delicious palette of sage, cream and chocolate, with flashes of vibrant blue, conveyed a homely vibe.
To appreciate Citadines Canal Amsterdam’s design of guests facilities, one needs to understand the Citadines brand, which promises the comfort of a serviced residence and the flexibility of a hotel. This promise is carried through the layout of public spaces. At this hotel, the lobby is more than just a space for guests to check in and out; there are several welcoming areas to sit, read, and chat. In the same space is a lounge, where guests can purchase snacks, drinks and even bottles of wine to enjoy in their room or one of the cosy nooks around the hotel.
The brand’s signature experience, For the Love of Coffee, which offers guests a complimentary cup of local brew no matter the time of day, is executed at the lobby too. A self-help coffee machine is available throughout the day for guests desiring a quick perk-up.
The concept of flexible social spaces flows through the breakfast area in the basement. After breakfast service, this stylish space, with a meeting room in a corner, welcomes guests looking for an area to work and meet.
Other facilities at Citadines Canal Amsterdam include a gym with some very stylish water-powered fitness equipment, and a launderette.
Accommodation
The hotel offers 93 keys across seven apartment types. The lead-in standard room stands at 12m2 while the largest one-bedroom executive apartment offers 42m2 of space.
Studio apartments form the majority of rooms here, and these are furnished with a fully-equipped kitchen, double bed, living/dining area with sofa and TV with Chromecast, a wardrobe and nook for bags, jackets and other daily essentials.
The Studio was my home for two restful nights. While I spent most of my time exploring the city and had lovely meals outside, I could appreciate the convenience of having access to my own kitchen during my travels and especially on longer trips.
F&B
The hotel provides a breakfast buffet, filled with an assortment of breads and pastries, fruits, cereal, cold cuts and cheese – all presented most sumptuously. With the eclectic mix of furniture styles throughout the space, I had a bit of fun selecting my seat every morning – rustic today, chic tomorrow.
Service
Check-in and out was swift, and there was always someone close by to help with breakfast service. However, I wished there was a less strenuous way to move my hefty suitcases in and out of the building – there was a short flight of steps between the front door and the lobby.
Verdict
I love the location: great surroundings to explore on foot; and the interior design: gorgeous pastel colour scheme and interesting furniture. Part of the fun of staying in a hotel is getting to live in environments so different from home.
Contact details
Website: http://www.discoverasr.com/en/citadines/netherlands/citadines-canal-amsterdam
