Montana

"When God distributed the measure of beauty to the world, Jerusalem received most of it." I will dare and add my own "addition" to the famous sentence (with which many of the city's residents and admirers will surely agree): the considerable part of that divine beauty is hidden in Ein Kerem, an ancient Jerusalem neighborhood, located next to the western entrance to the city.

The amazing Ein Kerem boasts a rich and fascinating history, and its ghosts from the past hover over churches, monasteries and residential buildings built of local stone. The unique architectural appearance of the village consists of a variety of design influences from the East and the West over the centuries. The neighborhood is surrounded by ancient grape and olive vineyards and is framed against the background of the green Jerusalem mountains, which give the place a natural, lively and fertile appearance.

The hotel building consists of 5 vaulted and asymmetrical spaces that were once used as knights' halls. The conversion of the building into a luxury guest complex was carried out according to the design of the architect Edna Uziali. The interior design was carried out by the Austrian architect Gunter Koltringer, who specializes in restoring ancient palaces in Europe and turning them into boutique hotels.

Three levels, which were built over many periods one above the other, make up the building: the lobby and the Richard Lev-Eri suite are located on the entrance floor, two additional suites, (also recommended for two couples of friends) are located one floor below. Another suite, Gottfried de Bouyon is on the lowest and oldest level.

A winding staircase leads from the lobby to the common roof, which is made as an open view balcony which may prove to be a perfect panoramic observation for those who long to enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley, the Judean mountains and Ein Kerem shining in the golden light of the church spiers and bells.

The original construction combines Byzantine and Islamic architectural influences, which are expressed in the vaulted shape of the spaces, thick stone walls, ceilings and windows in the form of arches, arabesques, paving and stone carvings, marble columns and Roman capitals. The design manages to preserve the historical character of the place while emphasizing modern functionality, comfort and luxury.

A mostly monochromatic color scheme based on shades of golden sand and soft cream creates an atmosphere of a dream here, surrounded by a sense of mystery and secret. An abundance of lighting fixtures scattered throughout the space give the space an implicit sensuality. The combination of modern elements and original design details creates an intriguing balance between a "museum" feeling and a lively, dynamic, changing and renewing atmosphere.

The spaces are furnished with carpentry details in classic European, ethnic and modern styles, which are characterized by an elegant restraint that leaves the stage for original elements that have been preserved and restored with marvelous precision. Each suite in the hotel has a unique character and differs from the others in the size of the space, the interior design and the details of the fittings.

For each suite - a bed with an excellent orthopedic mattress, a living room area with classic European-style furniture, an innovative LED screen, a cinema system, and a jacuzzi (or a French bath in the "Baldwin" suite). The bathrooms boast a double rain shower head, a variety of quality toiletries from "Peter Thomas".

In conclusion:
Boutique hotel "Montana" offers a unique, intriguing and exciting experience for lovers of history, luxury, art and nature. A romantic vacation with added value.