3The Herbert Samuel Hotel, a property of Nakash Group Israel, opened its doors in the summer of 2016. The building, previously a hotel which had lain abandoned for eight years, underwent a two year renovation to re-open as a luxury hotel encompassing a European Style. “We are situated in a prime location in the center of Jerusalem, close to transport links and major tourist sites,” says General Manager Danny Bukovsky. “We pride ourselves on presenting outstanding quality and service, with every request attended to by our team of dedicated staff who are happy to assist.”

The striking lobby lounge welcomes you with an inviting fresh scent, and is meticulously designed in a palette of gold, brown and blue fusions. The classic wooden bar displays illuminated stacks of alcoholic beverages, a welcoming spot for an evening tipple.

The hotel contains 137 rooms across a mix of Superior Rooms (18-22m²), Deluxe Rooms (28m²) and four 40m² Suites which include a living room. My ninth floor Deluxe Room is as elegant as they come, a divine blend of neutral tones, silver accents and luxurious marble flooring. Leather bound furnishings and a comfortable seating area enhance the room’s aesthetic, as does the crème de la crème rainfall shower – traditional sophistication fit for the present day. Resting on the indulgent king size bed, it becomes clear I’m in for a tranquil night’s sleep.

Spa & Health Club
I awake early the following morning for a pre-breakfast swim in the indoor pool, located in the health complex which features a spa, gym and dry and wet saunas. I’m fortunate to enjoy the pool to myself, which is surrounded by groups of lounge chairs and a comfortable seating area. “We are one of the few hotels in Jerusalem to provide an indoor pool, which is heated to 28 degrees year round. Our gym is open 24/7 and our guests have the benefit of booking from a wide range of indulgent spa treatments provided by our professional team,” outlines Bukovsky. The setting is elegant, with atmospheric lighting that enhances the water’s reflection as it shimmers from the golden ceiling.

Breakfast With a View
Breakfast at the Herbert Samuel is, in itself, an experience. The 11th floor restaurant presents a spectacular 360 degree view across Jerusalem, amid atmospheric music that sweeps across the classic space. Guests, who dine under an intricate gold iron ceiling imported from the Netherlands, are permitted a behind– the– scenes glimpse of chefs at work from the open plan kitchen.

The banquet of cuisine is a feast of many cultures – including a Balkan Shakshuka, seasoned in tasty spices, and an irresistible melt-in-your mouth Knafe. Rows of colorful chopped vegetables, and dressings, antipasti, eggs, mountains of cheeses, fresh and dry fruits, cereals, breads, pitas, bagels and sweet treats, including pastries and halva slabs, are stationed across the room – a winning presentation of Middle Eastern delights to cater to all tastes. I chose a table encased within the glass terrace which offered an idyllic backdrop of the spectacular city, the perfect accompaniment to my morning Shakshuka.

The Market & Business
The hotel is also popular among business guests and provides a choice of two conference rooms, which can seat up to 14-24 people. “Our incoming market consists of 70 percent Americans, 20 percent Europeans and 10 percent from Asia, and our occupancy for 2017 sits at around 55 percent, but we are confident this will increase next year to reach around 65-70 percent,” explains Bukovsky. “No matter what your intent, our mission is to ensure the most pleasurable of stays, across every aspect at the Herbert Samuel Jerusalem.”

Image credit: Itay Sikolski