Now operating as a Westin Demeure, the hotel is well located in the center of Amsterdam’s historic center, near financial institutions and one block from the city’s famed "Red Light" district and other attractions.

Clientele

With 19 meeting rooms, the Grand is a popular choice for groups of just about any size. In fact, nearly half of the hotel’s guests are business travelers. About 25% of guests are American or British. A bit pricey for some, this hotel is also a top choice for families.

Accommodations

The Grand’s room inventory consists of 16 apartments, 28 suites, 107 superior rooms, 15 deluxe rooms and nine standard rooms. Since the property has undergone several reconstruction’s throughout its 600-year history, rooms vary in shape and size. Amenities include bathrobes, an electronic safe, a minibar, TV, hair dryer and computer modem. The marble bathrooms are modern, large and stocked with about a dozen towels. Fax machines are in 100 rooms. About half of the rooms offer charming views of the city’s historic canals, the remaining overlook the equally charming courtyard. There is twice-daily maid service. All rooms have adjustable air conditioning.

Public Areas

Guests enter the property through a large cobblestone courtyard, which sets the tone for this rather formal establishment. The main building is square, with a courtyard of delightful gardens in the center (a popular spot for summer weddings). Inside. The hotel’s stately, English-French decor features dark wood, antiques and ornate tapestries. All wings have wide hallways and high ceilings. A winding staircase in one wing is faced by a five-story wall of stained glass. Candles light public areas, even during the day. The feeling is that you are staying in a castle, rather then a hotel. A health spa on the ground floor features a heated pool, whirpool bath, sauna and steam bath.

Thanks to the purchase of the adjoining property, the Grand can accommodate banquet groups of 15 to 350. The most well-known space is the Marriage Room, in the main hotel, which was once the official "first class wedding room" of the city of Amsterdam. The room, which can hold up to 30 people, is decorated with colorful murals and stained-glass windows created in 1926 that depict scenes from married life.

The largest room in the hotel is Council Chamber, which can hold up to 350 people for a cocktail reception or 100 for a banquet. Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands was married there in 1966. The grand room features rich, carved-wood walls and majestic high ceilings.

Dining

The Lounge Bar, opposite the reception area, serves cocktails and light snacks. Located on the main floor, with a private street entrance, Cafe Roux has an informal Art Deco ambience and features French specialties from 6:30am to 11pm. The establishment is named after renowned chef Albert Roux, who supervised the restaurant’s menu. Dinner starters include game terrine with pear chutney, chicken boudin with truffles and floating cheese souflee in a creamy Gruyere sauce. Main courses include roasted noisette of venison on hazelnut spattzle, braised shank of lamb served with savoy cabbage, baby onions and carrots with a rosemary jus, and confit of duck leg with white beans and a port jus. Desserts include pastries and cheese selections.

Service

Twice-daily maid service is efficient and prompt. The hotel offers 24-hour room service and free show-cleaning. Valet parking is available for a fee.