The avant garde of Amsterdam
It all began with a humble inn built in 1638, few years later it started its expantion toward the Riviera of the Amstel River. The name of the river derives from the Antique dutch: Aeme Stelle, which means area with abundant water or “dam of the Amstel river” granting with it the name of the city Amsteler-damme.
The centenary of De L’Europe hotel, baptized in 1896, is today a grand luxurious five star hotel, one of the most recognized in Europe. It is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World for over 25 years and it also performs as the Hot List of Condé Nast Traveler due to its legacy, elegance and ideal location, right at the heart of the city.
After a deep re modelation it opened its doors once again in the spring of 2011.
Situated alongside the shadow of Munt Tower, with a beautiful sight of the Amstel River, originaly built as the emblematic Rondeel building, a treasure of the XIX century. De LÉurope is often referred to as “The other royal palace of Amsterdam”
As I enter I am immediately granted with an oasis of tranquility, wrapped in an atmosphere full of sophistication and refined taste, with a temporal design and classic elegance that makes an incitation to distinctive decoration. Based in its wide history it hugs me into an intimate ambiance with original artwork from Dutch masters from the private collection of Alfred “Freddy” Heineken,which reflect the capture of Amsterdam’s essence itself. Throughout its history, it has been visited by the elite of Amsterdam and keeps attracting the most recognized personalities and celebrities of the globe.
After so much astonishment I came into my room and found a cozy space full of comfort. Elements of classic design and luxury, the latest technology, including an iPod dock, Bose surround sound system and access to high speed internet, surround myself with conveniences such as under floor heating technologies and a low light motion sensor, windows double glass make the promise of a quiet stay, yet this does not stop here, a wonderful view of downtown and the inner courtyard are waiting to be seen.
While the Dutch paintings adorn the walls to create a sense of relaxation and refinement, the bright colors combined with rich carpets, wooden floors and soft bedding placed on a Coco-Mat (which is the best bed in the world) made with natural materials. A Carrara marble-clad bathroom invites relaxation in a tub full of bubbles. The intimacy of the salon, the beauty of the setting, the classic simplicity of the decor and impeccable service and style suggest a great privilege overlooking the Amstel River.
I decide to return to the hotel for to venture into the different spaces it has to offer me and of course which I’m going to visit during my stay.
Hoofdstad Brasserie is the perfect place for a sophisticated yet casual snack by the river. This place offers a culinary experience of master class of modern French cuisine with a touch of Amsterdam to which I loved to attend.
De L’Europe Promenade recreates the view with a private art gallery, Dutch masters which accompany us during the evening to offer a true London Afternoon Tea which of course I did not miss. You can also opt for cutting edge cocktails and “gourmet” snacks.
In a terrace where “it” couples enjoy the warm weather from spring through fall, located on the banks of the river with peculiar local specialties and international cuisine we find the Het Terraswhich also gives us a fabulous visit to the legendary city canals.
De L’Europe is a center of haute cuisine, with a selection of the best restaurants in the city; it has redefined the culinary status of Amsterdam. With its 111 rooms decorated with superb taste which includes 45 suites and a penthouse with six bedrooms making it an unparalleled suite.
It is by far the most “cool” and “avant garde” place in Amsterdam.
Info
Hotel De L’europe
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14, 1012 CP Amsterdam, Países Bajos
Tel. +31 20 531 1777
Text: Beatriz Nevarez ± Photo: Hotel De L’europe / Five Star / TRIOLIGHT / EUROPE HOTELS / WPS