The building that houses the Grand, a Sofitel Legend hotel, dates back to the 15th century when it was used for the royal family. Renovated by a French designer, the Grand is a luxury, five-star hotel with French themes and 177 guestrooms including 52 suites. Royal Suites, located on the third floor of a former canal house, features beamed ceilings and funky shapes with courtyard views. Another Canal House style of suites are available that includes fully equipped kitchenettes. Three of these suites offer a private entrance. Opera Suites, just over 800 square feet, overlook the gardens. Imperial Suites, over a thousand square feet in size, have been welcoming legendary guests since 1578. These suites offer two bedrooms, a separate living room, two bathrooms, and butler service.
Of the more traditional guestrooms, Classics are the smallest, providing 269 square feet. The sizes increase in Superior and Luxury rooms, with Junior Suites providing a king bed and a lounge area in nearly 500 square feet.
Amenities at the hotel include afternoon tea served daily between 3 and 5 p.m., butler service, private hotel tours offered daily, horse and carriage rides around Amsterdam, bike rentals, and private boat tours of the canals of Amsterdam. Guests may also enjoy the full-service spa facilities and fitness center. Guests of the spa have access to the hotel’s indoor pool.
Dining at the Grand includes Bridges, which as the former Town Hall canteen. The seafood restaurant features sommelier service and is the recipient of a Michelin star. The French-inspired Le Petit Bistro is the newest dining facility, opening in 2014. Featuring an indoor garden setting, it is adjacent to Bridges. Seasonally, the Garden Terrace provides outdoor seating with menus from both restaurants. For traditional pub fare, visit the Flying Dutchman.
