Where to Stay in Amsterdam: The Toren

October 11, 2012 0 Comments 3472 views

I had the pleasure of staying at an amazing boutique hotel in Amsterdam, The Toren, on my last trip to the city.

I use the word amazing, even if it is a cliche, because this place is really just that – from the service to the decoration to the rooms – every touch makes you almost want to stay inside rather than go out exploring the city.

Number of Rooms:

Where it is Located:

Two minutes walk from the Westerkerk and even closer to the Anne Frank House, The Toren is located on the famous Keizersgracht in the leafy Jordaan area of Amsterdam.

What Sets it Apart:

The Toren takes its guests back to a time when luxury and elegance were top priority and then combine this with modern amenities and helpful, friendly customer service. When was the last time your hotel room featured a chandelier, dimmable lights, an iPod/iPhone docking station and a fully stocked Nespresso machine?

Who Stays Here:

Individuals wanting to relax in comfort after exploring the busy city, couples on a romantic getaway and solo travellers. The hotel is popular with Americans but as the reviews section on the website shows, other nationalities are not in short supply.

The Look:

Deep reds, dark woods and a mixture of textures and patterned materials give the hotel an elegant and rich look. Fluffy white towels, plush pillows and thick carpet help to turn your room into a cosy space of pleasure. Atmospheric lighting, chandeliers that sparkle and flower arrangements feature throughout.

Dining:

The Toren has recently started a cooperation with Restaurant Christophe’, allowing you to order a first class culinary meal (Tuesday to Saturday, 18:30 – 22:00) to be served in your room or at a prepared table in the lounge.

Room service is available from 7:00 – 0:00. The hotel bar is open until 01:00 and breakfast is served in the morning – a combination of warm dishes and continental offerings. For all other times, the minibar will serve you well.

The Rooms:

Rooms at The Toren range from small singles with a shower to suites with a double Jacuzzi bath and everything inbetween. Some rooms look out on the canal, while others have a view overlooking the hotel garden. It is important to note that 17th century canal houses of the Keizersgracht are not modern purpose built buildings. While space is used effectively and rooms are more than comfortable – if the description mentions small, they really do mean it.

All rooms are filled with modern amenities, extra creature comforts and warm, luxurious fixtures and fittings.

Staff:

The staff at The Toren go out of their way to make you feel welcome and answer any questions you have. If they don’t know the answer to something, they’ll find out for you and get back to you with the answer. The personal mini-tour when you arrive not only makes you feel special but ensures you know where everything is.