Artists' Colony Inn

Artists’ Colony Inn 9 Yud Zayin Safed Israel

972-4-6041101 Cell: 872-52-3488196 Fax: 972-153-4-6041101

In the heart of the Artist’s colony of Safed Israel

A trip to Israel must include a visit to Safed. It is one of the oldest, most historical spots in Israel in the Galilee region and is also known as a centre for Kaballah study. There are 22 synagogues in this small area. I have been told that a Friday evening experience is to walk the streets of the old city. All the synagogues are full and the singing and dancing spills into the street. It is perfectly okay to ‘synagogue hop’ and see the town in full spirit.

Jeff and Benay Katz are the genial hosts of Artists’ Colony Inn. They worked on this unique artistic spot for over 1 ½ years. They found the structure in terrible condition. While working on the Inn they even discovered some hidden old stone arches which are now turned into a most creative place to visit.

Jeff and Benay are quite a team. While it is true that she worked with a top architect from Tel Aviv I do know that much of the creative design and choice of materials was Benay’s influence. Jeff works side by side with Benay but he is best known for regaling you with stories about his family and Israeli history. Check out some of the historical pictures on the wall in the reception area. Jeff is a fountain of information and so charming when he tells his stories. Jeff is also available as a tour guide and especially loves to show the Galilee area and the wine making spots.

There are only 4 rooms at the inn so it is essential to book ahead. Each room is different but crafted from the stone walls with magnificent modern touches of lighting and plumbing. Each room has its own little courtyard and the view from everywhere is spiritual to say the least.

The furnishings are luxurious. The linens are of the highest quality. Little dishes of cookies, candies and dried fruits are placed in each room daily. Also the guests are encouraged to help themselves to coffee, tea and pastries anytime during the day or night.

Plush white robes, thick towels and toiletries are left to pamper you. It is a fulfilling experience in every way to visit his unique place.

The enormous Israeli breakfast is prepared for you in the morning. One day omelets may be featured and on another day you will enjoy waffles. But always are the endless dishes of Israeli Salad, cheeses, fruits, yogurt, breads and fish.

It is such a delight to walk the narrow streets of the old city and investigate all the shops. There are art galleries, jewellery shops and gift shops. I liked the candle place. Jeff will also direct you to a cheese manufacturer and a shoe factory.

Benay and I had lunch in a little ‘cave like’ restaurant on the main street. The hummus and pita were the best. Also on the main street is a pizza restaurant that advertises itself as the best pizza in the world. I suggested we have dinner here. The charming men who run the establishment have beards, side locks and are obviously from a religious family. They were so much fun. The crust was so thin and the pizza so flavorful. We ended having a wonderful political discussion with three other visitors in the restaurant.

I found everything so delightful in Safed. Safed is a must visit. If you do plan to go treat yourself to the best in the area. Artists’ Colony Inn has now been voted the number 1 luxurious place to stay. I agree. Check it out at www.artcol.co.il

You will need specific instructions to find the inn. As you enter the property you face a stone wall. When the gate opens you enter a little bit of paradise.