W HOTEL: STYLE IN THE HEART OF AMSTERDAM
We’re never too interested in outdoor pools in city centre hotels but if you are urged to take a dip then W’s rooftop offer is probably one of the best places to go. With views over the Dutch rooftops, you may as well just relax and order a cocktail while you are there.
Split into two halves, (directly across a road from each other) one-half is (especially for Amsterdam) an unassuming block that hides a stylish interior of black and gold with a good smattering of honeycomb hexagon shapes. Opposite, inside the much grander old bank are part stylish store, spa (with vault doors still in use) and the rest of the hotel’s rooms.
Everything at W is stylish but at the Amsterdam offer, there is also a more friendly casualness. The rooms are large with wide windows, obligatory bare concrete floor and ceilings and a good selection of soft fluoro furnishings just to help brighten up the grey.
A must visit is Mr Porter for breakfast – it’s a health freak’s dream. A colourful display of freshly prepared vegetables, herring, salmon and veg juices leave you more than prepared for whatever Amsterdam has to throw at you. A straight line from Centraal Station, W is right in the heart of the city and is perfect for fashionistas and art-loving explorers.