Spending summer in the city, or having a few days getaway at home? Get that Rivièra feeling with a visit to Amsterdam’s very own Grand Beach.

Luxury hotel Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, located in the heart of the city centre, has opened its very own beach terrace in its historic courtyard, bringing a taste of the French coast to the Dutch capital.

The Grand Beach is inspired by the elegance of the French Riviera. As you walk on to the beach you are invited to enjoy a perfectly chilled bottle of rosé or one of the many tasty dishes inspired by coastal French cuisine, and yes they have caviar and champagne too!

The chefs cook outside on an Ofyr or a Big Green Egg barbecue, so you can enjoy a lazy Mediterranean lunch or early supper. You don’t even have to move from your chair. Place your order by smartphone via a QR code system and your food will be delivered to the table. Of course, you can also call for a waiter to come to your table if you prefer the personal touch.

As you look out over the white sand you can watch the bartender shaking your cocktail and the chef flipping some freshly caught lobster. Occasionally a DJ will provide sunny tunes that will take you on a musical journey to your favourite Saint-Tropez beach club.

‘So many people’s summer plans are up in the air at the moment that we thought it would be nice to bring that summer feeling to them instead,’ says The Grand Amsterdam’s general manager Emmy Stoel. ‘Close your eyes and you can forget you are in the middle of a busy city.’

The beach is spacious and well appointed, with comfy chairs and palm trees, and of course it meets social distancing regulations to ensure everyone’s safety. So kick of your shoes and feel the sand between your toes and enjoy this latest Amsterdam hotspot. Everyone is welcome. There is even a dedicated beach basket for dogs.

The Grand Beach is open daily from 12:00 till 21:00 until September 13. To book your space, go to www.thegrandbeach.nl.

By the way, Grand Beach can also be hired for corporate events.