Cosy campfire terraces in Amsterdam
The Netherlands isn’t exactly known for its tropical climate, but the Dutch don’t let something as trivial as the weather keep them from enjoying a little al fresco socialising. When the temperature drops, Amsterdam’s terrace bars become welcoming escapes, complete with heaters and – if you’re very lucky – fire pits.
Pllek
This post-industrial hipster hotspot in Amsterdam North wins the prize for having possibly the largest fire pit in the city. And it’s on a beach, which gives it that lovely, blissed-out vibe. Hunker down, resist any urges to get out your guitar (don’t be that person), and keep toasty around the flames. If it’s too windy for a campfire outside, then Pllek also has an indoor fire pit – such is their commitment to your cosiness.
Noorderlicht
Never one to be outdone by its neighbour, the wonderful NDSM café bar Noorderlicht (Dutch for Northern Lights) boasts a large fire pit nestled in the middle of its whimsical garden terrace. One of the most magical places in Amsterdam to while away an evening, Noorderlicht is the place to be if you like creative food and craft beers. It also hosts live music and mini festivals from time to time, so settle in and feel the love.
Noorderlicht | NDSM-Plein 102, NDSM
*Noorderlicht is closed for renovation until 2023
Zuidpool
Under the glow of hundreds of lanterns, you can warm your hands around the campfire at the capital’s least expected spot for an urban beach. Zuidpool is tucked away behind the RAI Amsterdam convention centre and transforms into a winter wonderland once the cold season arrives.
Meneer Nieges
This charming little place from the owners of Hannekes Boom is popular with Amsterdam’s trendy young things. There’s a huge waterside terrace styled into a quaint country garden with furniture and a fountain made from a grand piano, all of which basks in sunshine until early afternoon, when the shadow of a nearby building gets in the way. But not to worry, because when the sun goes down the cosiness ramps up, thanks to a beautifully photogenic fire pit: a large round campfire surrounded by curved stone benches, sitting inside a decorative wrought iron pergola.
Meneer Nieges | Westerdoksdijk 40, Centrum
Honorable mentions
Other bars with firepits include Rainarai and Mossel & Gin at Westergas. Up for heading a little further afield for your campfire fix? Embrace your inner hippy at Woodstock 69 in the nearby beach town of Bloemendaal.
