Galei Kinneret Hotel

Israel

On the edge of the biblical Sea of Galilee stands Hotel Galei Kinneret – one of Israel’s first luxury hotels, dating back to 1946. Recently renovated, sleek and minimalistic interiors take inspiration from the surrounding landscapes and ancient ruins, drawing on neutral colour schemes with mustard accents and natural materials of wood, stone and marble. Across the 123 rooms – some with private decks and Jacuzzis – the still waters of the lake or nearby Mount Arbel can be seen.

Gold detailing and art pieces pay homage to founder Lotte Eisenberg, who lends the restaurant her name. Here, culinary credits come from Michelin-starred chef Assaf Granit (of London’s The Palomar and Coal Office) and under an emerald tiled tree, European plates with Jerusalem flavours are served. Days under the sun start with a breakfast of fresh sourdoughs and Galilean pastries.

Unwind at the spa, on the private beach or poolside, where a closer look at the glass bottom reveals replicas of the artefacts found on-site, recreated by Israeli sculptor Yuval Lufen.

Doubles from £272. 00 972 4 670 7070, galei-kinneret.com

Words by Megan Dickson.

This review featured in the June 2022 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.