"...there was a successful review. It really turned out well, for the place - and for me. Summary of events: cool trip, blue sea in the background, good wine, delicious meal, excellent playlist, cute and smiling people, jumping to the pedestrian mall, hot day, ice cream, great day, easy, light and refreshing. If only I could add to the series of events "Suite, Napma" - I would be set. You won't have this problem..." [From the words of the critic, Alon Schwartzman]
Advantages and disadvantages - a review from the field The only suite in this special complex is the last link in the entertainment chain. And if anyone has not yet understood - they come here to have fun. Below the suite, around the inner courtyard full of character you will find a meat restaurant and a friendly pub. And all this is a meter from the pedestrian street of the colony, where the possibilities are truly endless. There are also a variety of suite accommodation packages that include meals from the restaurant - so it's worth checking out.
This day started off easy, there was something light in the air as we drove by the sea on the way to memory. The visibility was good and the sea was like a flat blue plate. My stunningly beautiful wife (flattery is always good, especially in public) who joined me, turned the review into a kind of couple quality time. It continued with the fact that there was plenty of parking in the parking lot, right next to the pedestrian street, a minute's walk from the place.
Location and ambience
Location - in the heart of the heart
The "Bronita" suite is located in the "Baron Estate", a complex located in the center of the Zichron settlement, a minute's walk from the famous pedestrian street. There are a variety of itineraries in the vicinity, performances (Shoni amphitheater, Caesarea, and in the center of the colony), beaches, the winery and a lot of history, scenery and air.
The complex is a restored building with lots of character
We entered through a stone arch into the tastefully restored "Baron's Stables" complex. We found a place that is managed not out of effort, but out of investment and love. There is simplicity here, but of the kind that is hard to find, one that comes from balance. The person responsible for the conversion and reconstruction of the complex, with great respect for the historical structure, is Ayelet Zion. You can also tell her that in her profession as a chef she works with simple and good raw materials, and that in the past she has a high-quality musical record (she produced the band "Gaia" and co-wrote the song "Together"). If you didn't figure it out on your own, then Ayelet is very good at harmonies.
The restored old buildings were originally built in 1880 during the time of Baron Rothschild. In the area of the restaurant there used to be the stables. On the second floor are the baron's tired squires, after returning him from yet another meeting in Rosh Pina. Today, the second floor contains the suite, and opposite, separately, the VIP room that is used for intimate chef meals. Ayelet's daughter, Lira, is in charge of the design here and her partner Ofer built the furniture.
The suite is located above the pub, and enjoys a small balcony that overlooks the central courtyard of the complex. There is no privacy here, but that's really not the point here.
It is important to note that the restaurant is kosher and is not active on Shabbat. So those who come on the weekend can enjoy the surrounding happenings on Thursday and the quiet on Friday-Saturday when the restaurant and pub are closed.
The suite - a cozy and intimate space in the heart of the action
A staircase leads to the suite, so it is not accessible to those with physical disabilities. It is not large (about 30 square meters), but the space is open and spacious. There is a large double bed (200x200), a small dresser, 2 armchairs, a table and a TV, board games, a fully equipped kitchen (no possibility to cook) and a bathroom with a shower curtained off. There is no jacuzzi here, but I don't think anyone who comes here is looking for one. Instead, you can just sit on the small balcony facing the central courtyard, no less interesting.
The hosts work with their hearts
We met Sarit who is responsible for the management, we were impressed, we got some smiles from the waiters and sat down to a tasting meal with Ayelet Zion, the owner/chef. Law: happy waiters = good food. The concept here is that the guests of the suite receive special service from the entire staff, including the waiters who make sure to treat you accordingly.
Ayelat has a musical and artistic background, and after many years in this field she decided to make a change and dedicate herself to the love of hospitality and cooking that has always accompanied her. "The Baron's Mansion" currently combines her 2 loves.
There is something very striking about Ayelet: her ability to stay true to herself. She does what she believes in, without trying to please, and tries to do it well. She believes in simplicity and balance, precise and correct doses. And this is evident in the suite and the food, in the design and even in the choice of the serving utensils (of "Shibilim" - a creative house of people with special needs). It gives the impression that there is a person here who has intention and thought in every detail, which explains well the success of the place.
In conclusion - a unique complex that offers the best of all worlds: on the one hand, cultural and culinary happenings right under your nose, and on the other hand, a pleasant and intimate retreat. The complex here offers a vacation full of energy and life combined with the magic of this amazing colony.
You should know
- Accommodation packages that include meals at the on-site restaurant.
- Perfect for the weekend - on Thursday you enjoy the action, on Friday-Saturday the restaurant and pub are closed - and you enjoy the silence.
- Right on the picturesque pedestrian street of Zichron
- Occasionally there are performances in the area by local artists, worth checking out