Located on Moshav Liman in the Western Galilee, a short ride north of Nahayria, sits Maskit Boutique, an intimate hotel set within a private estate. The owners, husband and wife duo Avi and Sarit Maskit, opened the hotel in 2006 on a perfectly manicured plot of land, surrounded by landscaped gardens and two lively horses.

“I spent years working in the banking sector and decided to trade in the job not so long ago to run Maskit full time,” says Sarit. “We revived the concept in April 2016, redesigning the rooms and amenities to fulfil our dream of providing an exclusive and luxurious hotel complex in Israel, and we also host events such as intimate weddings and parties.”

Quaint brick paths lead you to four 45m² suites dotted along private enclaves, the entire grounds perfumed by blossoms of gardenia and white roses. “We plan to expand by building a further four suites in the future, two of which will have their own private pool.” Behind an iron gate marked “2” is our suite, Adoria Rosetti, housed within a beautiful structure encircled by a lushness of green and exotic plants.

The suite’s design pays homage to classic 1920s Europe, swathed in gothic hues of black, grey and dark green; a dusting of gold trimmings and eclectic knickknacks offsetting the opaqueness. “Our designer even incorporated elements from nature, such as wood from the trees, into some of the furnishings, including leg stands,” says Sarit. “Our objective is to thread together luxury and nature.” This is evident throughout many features, from the wood-burning fireplace encased in glass; a specially crafted wooden ceiling fan and the black glass cabinet emblazoned with a handsome white horse.

Designed by Roee Yarkoni, the room exudes an opulent elegance fit for royalty – from the custom-made king size bed to the built in glass fireplace and fine furnishings; we felt the indulgence from the first second impression. Flashes of Middle-Eastern influence evoke from the arch-shaped mirrors, hanging lamps and rich wall tapestry. “Most of our furnishings are custom made in Israel and are unique to Maskit,” explains Sarit. Two wooden sliding doors open to reveal a grandeur bathroom, with double marble sink, L’Occitaine branded toiletries, fluffy bathrobe and slippers, art deco tiled flooring, indoor rainfall shower and a small path leading to a clandestine garden shower.
On-site is an outdoor mosaic swimming pool with tanning deck and sunbeds, a secluded round heated pool within a closed walnut wood cabin a spa offering pampering treatments and a dry Finnish sauna. The restaurant and lounge, overlooking the landscaped gardens, captures a timeless European-esque charm, with a shimmering chandelier, plush velvet seating, a grand wood and iron dining table and charming floral print crockery, a page from an interior design magazine.

Breakfast is served directly to the table, prepared by talented young women from a local Bedouin village. Laid before us are: zesty chopped salads infused with olive oil and herbs from the garden; a chopped brown bread loaf; seasoned cheeses; flavorful tuna salad; thickly swirled tahini spread; handpicked farm eggs in any style you desire, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Presented on finely printed china, the cuisine was as healthful as it was satiating.

Our overnight at Maskit boutique was a welcoming respite, with calming music, a serene ambiance, abundance of nature and sweet smells luring us into a state of fine relaxation. All in all, a private escape from city life amid the pristine country.