Amsterdam's Hidden Gem: The Posthoorn Hotel – Unbelievable Experience!
Amsterdam's Hidden Gem: The Posthoorn Hotel – Unbelievable Experience! (A Messy, Honest Review)
Okay, people, buckle up. I'm still buzzing from my trip to Amsterdam and, honestly, I needed to tell you about this place. Forget the canals, forget the tulips (okay, maybe don't forget the tulips completely), because the Posthoorn Hotel is Amsterdam's real hidden treasure. Now, I’m not usually one for flowery reviews – I'm a "tell it like it is" kinda gal – but this place… this place… it was something else.
(SEO & Metadata Stuff - Just Briefly Before I Dive In!)
- Keywords: Amsterdam Hotel Review, Posthoorn Hotel, Accessible Amsterdam, Luxury Amsterdam Hotel, Spa Amsterdam, Amsterdam Restaurants, Free Wi-Fi, Family-Friendly Amsterdam, Best Amsterdam Hotel, Amsterdam with Kids, Amsterdam Spa, Amsterdam Food, Accessible Hotel Amsterdam, Amsterdam Wheelchair Accessible.
- Meta Description: Unforgettable Amsterdam experience! Read my honest review of The Posthoorn Hotel, a hidden gem with amazing accessibility, delicious food, spa, and more! Learn if its the best option for your next Amsterdam adventure.
The Good Stuff (and the Slightly Wonky Bits)
First things first: Accessibility. This is HUGE for me, and the Posthoorn Hotel nailed it. I had some mobility issues on this trip (don't ask!) and I was genuinely impressed. The hotel boasts Wheelchair Accessible rooms and facilities, which made a world of difference. The Elevator was smooth and easy to use, a massive relief, and the staff seemed genuinely committed to making everything accessible. They even had signs in braille which was a super nice touch. I have had horrible experience in some hotels and this one really felt like they thought of everything. This, seriously, is a huge plus for me.
Now, about the rooms. Mine was a haven. Seriously, amazing Air conditioning which is a must in summer (trust me, I know) and the Blackout curtains were a lifesaver after a long day exploring. My bed was an Extra long bed – perfect for sprawlers like myself – and honestly, the Linens were divine. So soft! They had all the basics – a Coffee/tea maker, a Refrigerator stocked with drinks (that Free bottled water was a godsend!), a Hair dryer that actually dried my hair (miracle!), and a Safe box for all my precious stuff. Also there was a complimentary tea. It was good and always accessible. The Wi-Fi [free] was strong everywhere, which is a must right now.
(Rant Time! - But a Good Rant)
Okay, I'm not going to lie. I had a small, tiny hiccup. The first night, I couldn't figure out how to use the TV remote and nearly had a meltdown. Seriously, hours of frustration! Then, I found the hidden on/off button! And the best part? I then spent 4 hours watching old classic movies. Now, that’s the stuff of legends.
(Back To The Good Stuff!)
Speaking of legends, the food! Oh. My. God. The Breakfast [buffet] was… well, let's just say I may have gained a few pounds. But who cares! It had everything! Western breakfast options, including unbelievable pastries, and a decent Asian breakfast selection. Don't get me start with the fresh fruit and juice. I had a daily ritual: coffee, fruit, and all the pastries. I also had a quick and delicious Breakfast takeaway service. And the Coffee/tea in restaurant was always divine. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was a fantastic experience. They also had a Vegetarian restaurant with incredible options for the non-meat eaters.
The hotel also had incredible choices; a Bar, Restaurants, and even a Coffee shop with such variety! And it's not just the food, oh no. You can dine on a Terrace or in a designated Safe dining setup. They had a Poolside bar with the cocktail of the day! I had some Desserts in restaurant and loved it. I'd also like to point out the service was brilliant. You didn't have to ask for anything. Every time, the staff were so friendly and polite. I was also impressed that they had Alternative meal arrangement and it was something that makes a big difference!. A real must for any foodie.
(Now for some of that Relaxation…)
If you're after relaxation, you're in for a treat. The Posthoorn has a fantastic Spa/sauna. Honestly, I spent a significant amount of time in the Sauna and the Steamroom. Just bliss. They also offer Massage and some other treatments, like Body wrap and Body scrub (which I may have indulged in). I felt like a new person. And the Pool with view was just stunning, especially at sunset. It also had a Swimming pool [outdoor] where you can swim, as well as a Swimming pool. Honestly, a truly relaxing atmosphere.
(The Bits Where They Really Shine - and a Few Quirks)
The staff, bless their hearts, were brilliant. The Concierge was super helpful with recommendations (some of them were pretty spot on!), they had a 24-hour Front desk, and they all spoke impeccable English. The whole team seemed genuinely happy to help. The Daily housekeeping was efficient and thorough. They do a great job and are all so sweet.
I was also super impressed with their commitment to Cleanliness and safety. They had Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and the staff were clearly trained in safety protocol. This was reassuring, especially given the current climate. The hotel seemed to take this very seriously. They use Professional-grade sanitizing services and also made sure of the Sterilizing equipment. They went above and beyond with Room sanitization opt-out available and Rooms sanitized between stays.
(A Family Friendly Place!)
The Posthoorn also boasts a Family/child friendly environment and offers a Babysitting service which is fantastic for the parents! They also have some Kids facilities and a Kids meal to assist with those picky eaters.
(A Few Imperfections Because, Well, Life)
Okay, so it wasn't all perfect. I had a bit of trouble finding the laundry service. It wasn't as prominent as other stuff, but eventually, I did. Also, the Car park [on-site] had limited spaces, so if you're driving, it might be worth booking in advance. One tiny bit of feedback: I'd have liked more signage around the spa, just to make it easier to find the different areas. The Car park [free of charge] was such a bonus!
(Amenities That Make You Feel Spoiled)
The Room service [24-hour] was a godsend when I had a late-night craving for fries. They also had an Ironing service, so you could keep your clothes looking pristine (I didn't use it, but good to know!). Dry cleaning was available too. They also had a Convenience store for essentials. The whole place was just set up for convenience!
(For the Business Travelers (or Those Who Need to Pretend!)
They have a Business facilities which is a great help. They also have Meetings and Meeting/banquet facilities so that you can host a convention etc. And the Business center with Xerox/fax in business center is the perfect space!
(Security and Peace of Mind)
CCTV in common areas and outside, as well as Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour] and Security [24-hour] make their clients feel very safe. On top of it all, they have Smoke alarms in every room!
(Small Details That Matter)
I loved the little touches, like the Slippers in the room, the Toiletries (that shampoo smelled divine!), and the fact that they provided a Bottle of water every day.
(A Few Final Ramblings…)
The Posthoorn Hotel is not just a place to sleep; it's an experience. From the friendly and welcoming service to the incredible amenities and the dedication to accessibility, it’s truly special. I really felt like I was getting to know myself on the journey.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. In fact, I'm already plotting my return! If you're looking for a hotel in Amsterdam that offers something truly unique, look no further. Go. Stay there. You won't regret it. Just be prepared to never want to leave. And tell them Sally sent you (that's me!). They don't know me, but it’s worth a try!
Final Score: 5 out of 5 stars (with a bonus star for the pastries!)
Escape to Paradise: Atlantic Coast Inn, Fenwick Island Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my Amsterdam adventure at The Posthoorn! This ain't your meticulously planned, Pinterest-perfect itinerary. This is the REAL DEAL, baby. Get ready for some glorious chaos.
Day 1: Arrival and the Initial "Oh My God, It's Amsterdam!" Moment (and a near-disaster involving a stroopwafel)
- Morning (Arriving, the Hectic Hustle): Flew in around noon. Schiphol Airport? Smooth as butter. Then… the taxi to The Posthoorn. Okay, that was less smooth. Imagine a crowded street, a bewildered me clutching my luggage, and a driver who seemed to be auditioning for "Fast & Furious: Amsterdam Edition." We survived. The Posthoorn, bless its little canalside heart, was… well, it was there. The lobby smelled faintly of old wood and something indescribably Dutch. In a good way.
- Afternoon (Check-in and the Amsterdam "Wow"): Check-in was a breeze. The room? Cute! Tiny, but charmingly so, with a view of a canal. "Right, Amsterdam," I thought, "Let's do this." I unpacked, took a deep breath, and decided to just walk. No specific plan, just wander. This is Amsterdam, right? Get lost, find a canal, and eat something amazing.
- Late Afternoon (Stroopwafel Catastrophe and Canal-Gazing Euphoria): Okay, the stroopwafel. I LOVE stroopwafels. Strolled into a bakery. Bought one. Piping hot, caramel gooey-ness. Took a bite… and nearly choked on the gooey center! Swallowed it down fast, but good lord that was terrifying! Feeling better after that I found a picture perfect spot by a canal, took a deep breath, and just… sat. Watched the boats drift by, the cyclists whizzing past, and the ducks judging my life choices. Pure bliss. Amsterdam, you are already winning.
- Evening (Dinner and the "Lost Tourist" Shuffle): Found a cozy Indonesian restaurant called "Kantjil & De Tijger" (Google it!). The rijsttafel was a beast of deliciousness. So many tiny, flavorful dishes! I may have overeaten (don't judge). Post-dinner, I tried to navigate the city again… and promptly got lost. Twice. Learned the hard way that Google Maps and cobblestone streets don’t mix well – almost broke my ankle! Ended up back at the hotel utterly exhausted, but with a goofy grin plastered across my face.
Day 2: Art, (More) Canals, and a Questionable Decision Involving Beer
- Morning (Van Gogh and the Quest for Coffee): First things first: coffee. Found a cute little café tucked away on a side street, and got a pretty decent latte. Caffeine levels stabilised, I headed to the Van Gogh Museum. Okay, I'm not going to lie, standing in front of 'Sunflowers' nearly brought me to tears. The man was a genius. Did get slightly overwhelmed by the crowds.
- Mid-Morning (Canals, Again): Decided a canal cruise was in order. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. The perspective of the city from the water is just breathtaking. The houses tilting this way and that is just so unique. Plus, the information lady was funny and charming.
- Lunch (A Cheese Disaster): Oh god, cheese. I entered a cheesemonger. The shop was filled with rows and rows of the stuff. I asked for a sample of, like, everything. Maybe I overestimated my cheese-eating capacity. The cheese lingered on my tongue with the intensity of a bad breakup.
- Afternoon (The Red Light District - And My Ramblings):
- Okay, the Red Light District. I went. I saw. I’m not going to judge. I'm just going to say it was… an experience. The atmosphere is… electric. It's a sensory overload, and it definitely makes you think. Made me think about societal expectations, morality, and how much I was craving a beer. I sat down on a bench, watching. Thinking. Observing. Feeling overwhelmingly… tired.
- Evening (Beer and Regret): Found a brown cafe, which is apparently a thing. It promised local beer, a cozy atmosphere, and escape from the crowds. The beer was indeed good, and I, after a few beers, made friends with a couple from Texas. We clinked glasses and talked about everything from politics (avoided that, mostly) to the meaning of life (also avoided). Then, the inevitable happened. I ordered another beer. And another. And another. I’m pretty sure I ended up singing karaoke, badly, to a room full of confused Dutch people. Woke up with a raging headache and a vague sense of shame. Worth it? Possibly. Would do it again? Definitely.
Day 3: Anne Frank and the Bitter-Sweet Goodbye (and some random thoughts)
- Morning (Anne Frank and the Sobbing): Booked for the Anne Frank House. Heartbreaking. Moving. Powerful. Stand in that empty room, that attic, and it's like you can almost hear the whispers of those hidden. You are changed. The experience left me feeling… gutted. But also, deeply, deeply grateful. Spent a while just wandering, trying to process everything.
- Afternoon (Shopping and a Final Stroopwafel): Needed some retail therapy after the Anne Frank visit. Mostly bought souvenirs for friends and family, but hey, I earned it, right? Found another stroopwafel. Ate it. No choking this time. Victory!
- Late Afternoon (The Final Canal Walk and a Bittersweet Feeling): One last walk along the canals. Took some photos. Savoring the magic of the city. Thinking about all the things I'd seen and the people I had met. I also felt like I could have stayed for weeks!
- Evening (Packing, and the "Oh crap, I'm Leaving" Panic): Ugh, packing. Never fun. Started thinking about the fact that I was leaving Amsterdam the next day. This trip had been messy, glorious, and deeply, profoundly human. Part of me didn’t want to go home. The other part was already picturing the comfort of my own bed. I'm still not entirely sure which part won.
- Night (Final Thoughts): Amsterdam, you beautiful, chaotic, slightly-crazy city. You’ve stolen a piece of my heart. I’ll be back. Definitely. And next time, I'm bringing a better map. Or maybe not. Maybe it’s better to get lost, after all. Until next time, Amsterdam. Cheers!
So, is The Posthoorn Hotel *really* as amazing as everyone says? I've seen the pictures...
Okay, look, I'm going to be brutally honest. Those pictures? They don't even **start** to capture it. It's like, you see the stained glass, the antique furniture, the whole vibe, and you think, "Alright, nice hotel." Then you walk in, and BAM! It hits you. Seriously, it's like stepping into a Vermeer painting that’s also a really comfortable hug. The pictures don't properly show the *depth* of the place. The dust motes dancing in the afternoon light give it a character that's... well, it's almost spiritual. And, let me tell you, the first time I went, I nearly tripped walking in, so overwhelmed was I by the beauty – and probably the jet lag! Almost fell flat on my face, right in front of the reception desk! Mortifying, but the guy just chuckled and said, "Welcome home." Sold me right there.
What's the vibe like? Is it stuffy? Or is it actually chill?
Stuffy? Absolutely not! Chill? Mostly. It's got a certain *elegance*, sure, but it’s also... cozy. Like, imagine your incredibly stylish grandma's house, but without the nagging about eating your vegetables. It’s got this warmth that just embraces you. I remember once, stumbling in after a particularly long day of canalside wandering, completely disheveled and accidentally spilling my coffee. I nearly died of embarrassment (again!) But the staff just *laughed* with me, cleaned it up, and brought me a new one with a wink. It's that kind of place. They understand humanity, and the inevitable mishaps that come with travel. The people who work there are part of the magic.
The decor looks pretty intense. Is it overwhelming?
Okay, the decor... It's a *lot*. But it’s a *good* "lot." My first reaction? "Whoa." Like, seriously. First time that I'd seen so many chandeliers in one place. Later on I found myself *wanting* to sit near the largest one... just to soak up the fancy vibes! It's an assault on the senses in the best possible way. There’s so much to look at, you could spend days just wandering around, discovering new details. It’s like a treasure hunt every time you move around. It’s not overwhelming in a bad way; it’s overwhelming in a "I want to live here" kind of way. And I'm a minimalist, so that's saying something!
What about the rooms? Are they comfortable?
Comfortable? **Yes.** Utterly and completely comfortable. I’ve slept in beds there that made me weep with joy. Seriously! One time, after a flight from hell, I crashed in one of their rooms and woke up feeling *born again*. The bedding is ridiculously soft, the pillows are fluffy, and the rooms themselves are spacious despite the historic building. They're a haven from the craziness of Amsterdam. Every detail is carefully considered, from the antique furniture to the – and this is crucial – the *window curtains*. Great curtains are a must, after all the day's worth of sunlight! They're thick, they block out the light, and they let you sleep. Gloriously, undeniably, sleep. Ahhhh sleep... Pure bliss...
Is the location convenient? Easy to get around?
The location is *amazing*. It's close enough to everything – the Anne Frank House, the canals, the museums, the Red Light District (if you're into that sort of thing) – but tucked away on a quiet street so you can actually get some *sleep*. Trust me, after a day of walking around the city, you'll appreciate not being in the middle of all the noise. It's a short walk to Central Station, too, for those day trips out of Amsterdam. You can hop on a tram or just wander. Honestly, even getting lost is fun. I recommend giving yourself at least an hour to wander around the areas.
The breakfast gets rave reviews. Is it really *that* good?
Okay, the breakfast... buckle up. It’s not just *good*. It’s an experience. Let's be real: I'm not a morning person. I like my coffee, and I usually want to delay eating as long as possible. But I actually, genuinely, looked forward to breakfast at The Posthoorn. The spread is incredible -- fresh pastries, cheeses, meats, yogurt, fruit, and all manner of breakfast delights. And the coffee? They make a proper cappuccino. The *ambiance* is incredible: light, airy, and somehow, a little magical. And *that*... is where my story starts. I remember one time, I was running late, barely had time to get dressed, and practically stumbled into the breakfast room. Still half-asleep! I somehow managed to knock over a tray of croissants in my clumsy state. Again, the staff was totally cool. I managed to get coffee and bread in front of me as I tried to compose myself from the prior embarrassment. The coffee was perfect, the pastries were perfect, and for a few blissful moments, the world was perfect, too. And because of that moment, the Posthoorn Hotel will always have a special place in my heart.
Okay, but what's the biggest downside? There *has* to be one.
Alright, you want the harsh truth? Fine. The biggest downside? Leaving. Every single time. Seriously, saying goodbye to The Posthoorn is like leaving a good friend. It’s a melancholic walk to the station, and I've probably shed a tear or two. Also - this is a minor thing, but I *did* get lost once trying to locate my room. It's an old building, with narrow hallways, and once you've had a drink or two, the hallways start to shift! Honestly, it's charming, but maybe pack a map (or, you know, ask someone).
Would you recommend it? Be honest!
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! YES! ABSOLUTELY, UNRESERVEDLY, WITHOUT A SHRED OF DOUBT, YES! If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Amsterdam, book The Posthoorn. Do it now. What are you waiting for?! Don’t even hesitate. Seriously. Go. Book it. You won't regret it. And tell them I sent you, maybe they'll give me a discount on my next stay! (Just kidding... mostly.) Seriously, it is that incredible.
