Deep within Wadi Shandiv, in the heart of a forest of ancient oaks and sycamores
The two unique stone structures of "Al Wadi" are located right in the middle of the wild and rich nature that surrounds them. To me, it felt as if no human foot had ever set foot in this forest. It seems that everything was planned and adjusted to create that moment that we all dream of, and few realize. The host, Yehuda, is an artist who left city life and created one-of-a-kind, isolated B&Bs with an impressive view.
The Al Wadi B&B complex is located on...another planet. Well, I'm not sending you on a galactic flight to one of the stars closest to your home: the wild and rich Canaanite nature of Mitzpe Matat that surrounds the two stone buildings at Al Wadi betrays no signs of civilization.
Private stairs (important to know - 70 steps) lead to each of the units, and lead from the private parking lot to the depth of the wadi. The guesthouse is located at the top of the plot, near the access road and there is complete separation and privacy between it and the units.
Two identical stone buildings are located on the edge of the wide terrace, on the same level. A stone wall separates the two buildings, creating perfect privacy. I sit for a moment on the stone bench in the covered courtyard of one of them. A beautiful fish pond, wonderful silence, the gurgling of the water, the smells of the forest. It's time to go inside.
The buildings were constructed using a dry-stone construction technique from local stone – an ancient tradition that has been “revived” in modern times. The owners of the B&B, a couple of artists, created the buildings inspired by ancient architecture, as evidenced by the reliefs and niches in the clay-plastered walls, the decorated arches and the original stained glass windows.
The "Al Wadi" suite has a glass wall that allows the open view of the Wadi to penetrate inside and become the most important design element in the place. The kitchenette is equipped, the sitting area consists of a built-in sofa and a colorful "Papia Moshe" (paper processing technique) table, next to an antique Canadian fireplace (a real collector's item, for those who understand) to warm the atmosphere and the heart. A large stone-framed jacuzzi is located next to a colorful stained glass window and overlooks the view. 21 of the units have a unique heated plunge pool right in the middle of nature.
The "Sleeping Spring" suite overlooks the spring and the immersion pool. It contains an antique wood-burning fireplace, decorative objects with a story and character, restored furniture details, lighting fixtures recessed into the walls, resembling torches - the space of the B&B is full of uniqueness, soaked in an atmosphere of creativity and art. A double wooden bed is positioned so that you can see the view clearly from it. 21 of the units have a unique heated immersion pool right in the middle of nature.
Here are all the ingredients for an unconventional vacation: the location, the beauty, the atmosphere – for those seeking a break from civilization and the pleasant embrace of nature and art.
What’s on the site?
Al Huadi is a lovely guest room but suffered from several shortcomings:
In summary: from my experiences with B&Bs in the past, staying in a B&B is a bit more than a beautiful place, but a feeling of hosting and receiving guests. The feeling at Huadi was that the beauty was there, but no thought was given to how to make the guests feel welcome.
Yehuda is a spiritual man (he is into music and art) and he didn't just choose to live in Mat. He allows guests to stay here quietly without unnecessary hassles and simply connect with the place and nature and enjoy the rare peace and quiet that is here. Of course, he is available to guests for any request.