The Credentials:
Local legend and restaurateur, Uri Jeremias, spent eight years preserving and restoring (under the guidance of the Antiquities Authority) two ancient houses to create what is now The Efendi Hotel.
Experts and artists from Israel and Italy completed the more delicate work such as the restoration of the ceilings, and stones and remnants from three historical eras can be seen throughout the hotel: 6th century Byzantine, 12th century Crusader and 16th and 19th century Ottoman Empire.
Although boutique, the hotel offers 12 stylish rooms on three levels, vast communal lounging areas, a large terrace (with a spectacular view) and a spa with a 400-year-old hammam.
Dine:
Each course of the tasting menu in the 900-year-old Crusader cellar-housed wine bar was outstanding. The caramelised tilapia and the chocolate fondant were particularly divine and each course was expertly complemented by a (mainly Israeli) wine pairing.
Breakfast is served on a communal knights’ table with a choice of either an extensive tapas-style 13-course full breakfast or a lighter healthy breakfast of cereals, bread and fruits (both options were excellent).
Sleep:
Spacious, light and with meticulous attention to detail (the marble floor and illustrated ceiling were simply sensational), our room uniquely offered both a view of the Mediterranean Sea and a panoramic city view.
The bathroom was equipped with a freestanding bathtub, separate shower and a generous number of local Dead Sea products. The king-size bed, goose down pillows and blankets, towel warmer, Nespresso machine and a case of Turkish delight provided further opportunity to indulge.
Who Goes There?
Honeymooners, romance-seekers and those with an interest in history or architecture.
Out & About:
With documentation in existence from the Bronze Age and an epic history spanning over 4,000 years, Acre (Akko to locals) is bursting with mosques, churches, ancient walls and fortresses. Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the current population is 75% Jewish and 25% Arab.
Fantastic views can be had from almost anywhere and must-sees include the Crusader-era Hospitaller Fortress and the marina, with its lighthouse and fishing port.
If you’re not claustrophobic, walk through the 350-metre Templars’ Tunnel (built by the knights Templar in the 12th century) that connects the fortress and the port. You can actually hear the sea above and around you as you cross its length.
While exploring the Turkish Bazaar, it was an honor to stumble upon and attend the opening of Dalal, a small tapas bar with just six covers. With its creative, distinguished dishes and personal ambience I don’t think it will stay a secret for long.
I particularly enjoyed the salmon with wasabi sorbet and prawns with artichokes at Uri Buri restaurant. Run by the same Uri who created the Efendi Hotel and housed within the walls of a 400-year-old Ottoman house, this foodie destination is particularly noted for serving the freshest seafood and fish available.
The Worst Thing:
American visitors’ loud and lengthy chatting and admiration of the view from the hotel terrace during their tour, interrupting my relaxing and reading time.
Acre does have an energetic and buzzy vibe but unless you have a strong interest in its historical past you may find the area outside the comforts of the hotel a little limited.
The Best Thing:
The Efendi is one of the best examples I’ve seen of offering the finest modern facilities without comprising on magical authentic atmosphere. The room and terrace were both fabulous, showing intricate attention to detail, but it is the accommodating staff and intriguing history that would give me reason to return.
