Quirky hotels brimming with character are always my favourites, which is why Ink Hotel, Amsterdam is right up there on my list of top stays for 2016.

Part of Accor’s MGallery Collection of boutique hotels, Ink is the former home of the Dutch newspaper De Tijd (The Times) and you’ll find reminders of its fascinating past everywhere, from the pots of pens in the bedrooms to the typewriter in the ‘Pressroom’ restaurant.

Staff have been especially chosen for their personable and approachable charm – I remember being offered a whisky by the check-in staff within the first few minutes of arriving (again, my kind of hotel!)  The check-in process itself is swift and uncomplicated and the stunning entrance truly wows on arrival with its huge jumbled up lettering on the walls – if you stare at it long enough, you’ll work out it’s an anagram making up the phrase ‘where stories are yet to be written’.  Another lovely touch.

The design of the hotel really is unique with conceptual design architects Concrete having been brought in to re-configure the building, along with the input of MGallery’s core team led by manager Joaquim de Looij.

It’s hard to believe that Ink stands in exactly the same spot as ‘De Tijd’ as the two buildings are so very different.  The vision was to create an entirely new space merging outside with inside, which is why you’ll find a huge tree in the reception, flooring reminiscent of the pavement outside and an additional outside space through the floor to ceiling glass panels for al-fresco dining and relaxing.

The atrium acts as a continuation of the street, inspired by the many hofjes of Amsterdam (courtyards).  The seamless indoor / outdoor merge both appeals to locals who want to pop in for morning coffee or an evening dinner or drink, and of course also to the curious traveller and guest who wants to explore all that this amazing city has to offer.

Conveniently located just a stone’s throw from the heart of Amsterdam, you’ll have no trouble finding your way around – especially if you get one of the rooms with a huge map of the city hand-drawn on the feature wall!  It’s a really unique idea to capture your attention, while at the same time actively educating you about the city.

The rooms are exceptionally comfortable and equally functional – perfect for working (especially if you’re a writer!)  The desk is huge with enough space for both your laptop and a fully stocked Nespresso machine, while the pot overflowing with pens is again, a nod to the hotel’s history.

The bathroom is integrated into the room itself but somehow manages to remain separated with a very clever open plan design – there’s also a full length mirror, power shower and a generous supply of C.O Bigelow products (the oldest apothecary in the world) which is just perfect if you like to pack light!

For dinner, the Pressroom downstairs is located in exactly the same spot as De Tijd’s old pressroom was, and is a really wonderful space.  It’s also a great place to work through the day with laptop chargers, high speed internet, USB sticks and even printing facilities.  The bar flows fluidly into the restaurant with the open plan kitchen acting as an impressive backdrop – brilliantly shiny pots and pans, a general sense of fun and excitement in the kitchen and the cooking staff all wearing probably the coolest attire I’ve seen in a restaurant!

The Pressroom successfully manages to offer up a fantastic menu covering everything from ‘Eggs Amsterdam’ for breakfast through to ridiculously freshly stuffed sandwiches and salads at lunch; through to big plates of cod, bouillabaisse, half lobster and steak.  There’s also a note on the top of the newspaper style menus inviting you to have a wander around the kitchen and even to try out some of their creations on quieter days!

The cosy library / lounge area with back issues of De Tijd on the walls is the perfect place to kick back and relax, chat to friends or take afternoon tea.  It seems every single corner of Ink Amsterdam offers something comfortable and inspiring.

For a unique stay in a very cool hotel, Ink Amsterdam should be your top choice.  And as if you need further proof, on the night I left, one of the world’s biggest bands were just about to check in…

To book, click here.