The 19th-century building, at the junction of the River Amstel and two canals, may be imposing with grand public rooms, but readers like the 'happy mix of large hotel of character and ambience that goes with family ownership'. Another comment: 'Very expensive, but good service and great food.' A collection of Dutch landscapes hangs in the fin de siècle lounge; there is a bar, Freddy's, a gourmet restaurant, Bord'Eau (whose chef, Richard van Oostenbrugge, was Gault Millau Chef of the Year 2014), and a brasserie, Hoofstadt, serving breakfasts and light meals. Meals are also served on a terrace and the Promenade, a passageway in the hotel, serves cocktails, wine, and an authentic British afternoon tea. Some bedrooms have a balcony and windows opening on to the canal; quietest rooms overlook the courtyard. The American breakfast is thought 'splendid'. The fitness centre has a gym and a small Grecian-style swimming pool with a wave machine. Nearby are Rembrandt's house, the Rijksmuseum, and the flower market.