“Play at being royalty in this former Ottoman palace, which includes hand-painted frescos, spectacular historical features, and a 400-year-old Turkish bath. ”
“Play at being royalty in this former Ottoman palace, which includes hand-painted frescos, spectacular historical features, and a 400-year-old Turkish bath. ”
Hotel Review
The Efendi has long topped lists of the world’s best hotels and for good reason. After a near decade-long restoration project that was overseen by Israel’s Antiquities Authority, two neighboring palaces have been reimagined as an intimate boutique hotel that pays homage to an opulent past. From the colourful hand-painted frescos that adorn the lofty ceilings, to the stately arched windows and exposed honey-coloured sandstone, every historic detail has been carefully showcased. Expect to be wowed by the hotel’s 12 bedrooms, which range from more modern rooms with reclaimed wooden ceilings, to lavishly appointed suites that boast painted ceilings and sea views. Downstairs, daring guests can enjoy an authentic hammam experience at the marble Turkish bath – although a range of less vigorous treatments are on offer at the small spa, too. While it’s difficult to drag yourself away, you’d be remiss to remain only at the hotel: a short walk through Acre’s ancient streets brings you to Uri Buri, a nationally celebrated seafood restaurant helmed by The Effendi’s owner.
Written by Pip Usher
Recommended For
- Romantic Break
- Rooms with elegant frescos, an on-site wine cellar and sumptuous sea views set a romantic atmosphere
- Foodies
- On-site dining features excellent seafood, and traditional Byzantine style breakfasts
- Local exploring
- Perfectly situated to explore the historic old Acre's storied history
- Museums
- A short walk from the Ethnographic Museum "Treasures in the Walls"
- Wine tasting
- Sample a range of local Israeli wines from the well-stocked cellar
- Learning
- Walking tours exploring the local area and its history available
- Sights nearby
- In the centre of the old city of Acre and Acco Marina
- Hotel Entertainment
- The hotel hosts themed dinner nights
- Great walks
- Gourmet
- The owner runs a popular seafood restaurant nearby, Uri Buri, and the hotel features excellent dining options
- Historic
- Located in historic old Acre, housed in lovingly restored buildings with hundreds of years of history
- Spa
- On-site Turkish bath with spa packages available
- Good wine list
- The property boasts a wine cellar
- Sit-out Terrace
- No restaurant
- Opulent
- Owner managed
- Disabled access
- Restaurant
- Sea Views
- Boutique
- Child friendly
- Rooms with balcony/terrace
- Luxury
- Free wifi
- Views
Facilities
- Cots available
- Cots available free of charge, extra beds available at 213 (up to the age of 12) or 512.82 Shekels per night
- Parking
- On-site public parking available, charges may apply
- Spa
- On-site Turkish bath with spa packages available
- Airport transfer
- Shuttle available for an additional fee
- Laundry
- Laundry services available at cost
- Good wine list
- The property boasts a wine cellar
- Babysitting
- Babysitting services available
- Room service
- In-room breakfast available
- Massage
- Meeting Room
- No pets
- No restaurant
- Sit-out Terrace
- Satellite / Cable TV
- Restaurant
- Child friendly
- Sitting Room
- Disabled access
- In room DVD
- Wifi
- Free wifi
- Views
- Safe
- Air conditioning
- Bar
- Rooms with balcony/terrace
Activities
- Museums
- A short walk from the Ethnographic Museum "Treasures in the Walls"
- Wine tasting
- Sample a range of local Israeli wines from the well-stocked cellar
- Learning
- Walking tours exploring the local area and its history available
- Sights nearby
- In the centre of the old city of Acre and Acco Marina
- Hotel Entertainment
- The hotel hosts themed dinner nights
- Great walks
Map & Location
What's Nearby
Other Reviews
The Efendi Hotel
This grande dame of Old Acre is an enchanting boutique hotel from revered Israeli chef veteran Uri ‘Buri’ Jeremias. The Efendi holds centuries of original Ottoman Empire art and stone work within its former palace walls, all wondrously restored into a space filled with romance and Middle Eastern opulence.
Originally published by Telegraph Travel Online (view article)
