Gad Estate couples only

I arrive at Ein Yaakov, located between Tarshiha and Yehiam on a green hill overlooking the sea, look back to make sure no tourist buses have followed me, and go in. Gadi, the owner, is waiting with a cup of tea and a childlike smile. He says that he used to be a full-time farmer, and I think it would be a shame to waste such a smile on chickens. So it's true that there are still chicken coops in Ein Yaakov, not far from the complex, but the big advantage here is the privacy.

We enter one of the two suite complexes, which are far enough away from the hosts' house.

4 steps and we are on the balcony of one of the suites with a covered entrance facing the pool. Another step and we are inside. A single space in shades of cream, a high ceiling and a parquet-like floor greet us, and everything feels (and smells) very clean and well-maintained. The two suites are identical in their pleasant, solid design, and differ only in the touches. The pool in the Avia suite is covered with an elaborate modular roof.

There's a jacuzzi, a fireplace for winter days, a kitchenette, a dining area and a living room, a bright bathroom the size of my daughter's room, but mostly there's the touch of Gadi's hand. And the hand never stops caressing furniture that's already shiny from cleaning and removing imaginary dust. "I'm a perfectionist," he says, "I don't trust anyone to clean like I do," and I think that's a net benefit to the guests.

• A completely secluded outdoor area for each suite
• Avia's suite has a modular pool cover
• Deck with picnic table and comfortable chairs
• Double shower with two rain heads (especially luxurious)
• The place maintains a quiet character for couples' vacations. You can stay with two children in each suite if you book both suites.

A quick check on Wikipedia revealed that Israel ranks 33rd in the world in terms of density. There are 354.38 people per square kilometer (who the hell is the 0.38?!), and that's without the tourists from France in the summer. A private vacation? Either in Australia or in places that really understand what privacy is, like the romantic B&Bs at "Ahuzat Gad." By the way, on the way out I'm surprised to discover that a car is parked next to the suite next door. I didn't hear or feel any neighbors throughout the entire visit, and that perhaps says it all.