When you think of Amsterdam, you don’t necessarily think of it as a city focused on health. However, the hub for cycling and tulips has become a budding center for the wellness scene! We all know that Holland is famous for having more bicycles than cars but add healthy food and cozy hotels and you have the equation for a Hip & Healthy vacay in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
SNOOZE
Located on one of the main canals in Amsterdam, The Hoxton is the epitome of modern sophistication without sacrificing the cozy-ness of traditional canal houses. The Hoxton is also the perfect place for a delicious meal whether it is breakfast or dinner, or even just for a cheeky post canal cruise cocktail! One of our favourite features is the photo booth located at the top of the stairs in the entryway!
Minutes away from Vondelpark, The Conservatorium is the ultimate contender for a luxe stay in the city center in Museumplein. Scattered with natural light throughout, the hotel is ideal for those who want to relax but remain close to shops and other major attractions in the city. The hotel was the original site of the Amsterdam Music Conservatorium but has been transformed into the ultimate modern luxury by Dutch architect, Daniel Knuttel. Even if you don’t stay here, we recommend visiting to the see the exquisite design!
MUNCH
Pluk is one café where you can tuck in to great food and fresh green juices all while enjoying the feeling of home. The decor is light and open and the spread upon entering is so mouthwatering good that you’ll definitely want to go on an empty stomach in order to save room for amazing (and healthy!) treats! Pluk does get popular so make sure to go before or after normal dining hours. If you can’t snag a seat, you can always grab that juice to go and wander through the canals!
Tucked away in a small corner in the city, Lavinia Good Food Café is the ideal place to come in from that Dutch rain! The café is small, but where it lacks in space, it makes up in flavour with all of its delicious veggie dishes, fresh juices, and vegan friendly desserts! Our favourite dish is the spelt pizzetta with hummus, roasted aubergine and pomegranate!
Located in de Pijp, Coffee and Coconuts is a local favourite of many Dutchies, giving only good vibes and the perfect place to relax and enjoy amazing food. Focusing on high quality and local ingredients, the menu at Coffee and Coconuts will definitely make you want to come back for more! The classic surfer vibe and beanbag chairs is the spot to be after a long day of cycling throughout the city! So grab a coconut, kick back, and relax!
MOVE
Not quite sure about cycling in the city? Get your pedal fix in at Rocycle! The modern aesthetic of Rocycle is the perfect place to get your sweat on and in the words of the studio itself, “have a damn good time!” Rocycle was inspired by desire to stay healthy, happy, and energised and with 45, 60 and 90 minute classes to choose from, you’ll be sure to get in a proper workout whilst on holiday! After you’re drenched in sweat and high on those endorphins, refuel with a cold pressed juice or fresh smoothie from The Cold Pressed Juicery in studio. The Cold Pressed Juicery is the only 100% organic juice, smoothie and raw food bar in Amsterdam so you won’t want to miss it!
Cycling
Of course the number one way to get your body moving in this city is to cycle! Renting a bike in the city is as easy as grabbing a cup of joe to go! However, if you’re new to cycling, we recommend cycling in less busy areas of the city as it can get very crowded. If you’re too unsure about the rules of the road, the next best way to see the city is on foot!
Blue Birds is the perfect place to find your zen in Venice of the North! Blue Birds truly helps you unwind and puts not only your body at ease but also your mind. Feeling like you need a good stretch after all of those delicious treats? Book in for one of their Vinyasa Flow’s and leave feeling revitalized, and most likely ready to eat again J
words by Nadia Liu