The owner was gracious and helpful with suggestions on local attractions. The room was clean, spacious, and had an amazing view.
The pomegranate tree by the entrance stair set the tone for us to expect a special stay and our experience bore that out.
It was a peaceful and quiet refuge from the chaotic bustle of the Jerusalem shuk.
We hope to visit again.
Up the spiral metal stairs, under the bougainvillea and the ripening pomegranates, we gain access to our simple room with its extraordinary view. At night, the distant hilltops sparkle with lights. And in the daytime these neighborhoods shine green and white—gardens and stone taken from the Judean hills on which they perch. Throughout the day the shadows and light are a changing vista, The green of Wadi Kelt and a trail leading to this oasis are visible from a little wooden deck. In the morning there is a chorus of birds, and at mid-day swallows swoop and soar over the vista. The hills of Moab (Jordan) are visible through the haze.
In short, in this review, I am trying to give words to an ineffable experience of contemplation and beauty.
Words are not that helpful; prayer a bit closer to the experience.
As to the property itself: Our host, Igor was considerate, helpful and available, but also quiet and unobtrusive. We did not spend much time in our room, but when we wanted to we found everything we needed—comfortable beds, clean linen, a good shower, a refrigerator for morning yogurt mid-day hummus and evening cheese sandwiches. And the air conditioner kept us cool at night. Our visit was in August, so we never needed to switch the electric water heater on—the solar panels did a superb job. Americans—keep in mind that hot is to the left, and cold to the right (Unless you prefer to refresh with a cool shower) We did not use the small swimming pool, but it is available.
The view from this lovely apartment is stunning. We needed a couple of days rest after a very busy schedule in Israel, and this place was perfect. The apartment was comfortable, warm and well decorated. Location is excellent, it is near many sites - Jerusalem, Dead Sea, Jericho, Qumran. The host was very communicative and responsive and we enjoyed meeting him.