Akotika, nestled in the heart of Acre’s Old City, offers a luxurious seaside retreat with stunning sea views, unique kosher Arab cuisine, and an adults-only atmosphere. Blending the rich history of the ancient city with modern comforts, Akotika provides guests with a tranquil getaway unlike any other.
A Unique Stay in Acre’s Old City
Akotika stands out for many reasons. Located in the historic Old City of Acre, it offers the perfect blend of culture and relaxation. With the hotel right by the sea and a policy that restricts children, it is the ideal destination for those seeking peace and quiet.
One distinctive feature is that the hotel’s 18 rooms are scattered across different parts of the Old City, giving guests the sensation of staying in a neighborhood rather than a traditional hotel. The rooms themselves are spacious, elegantly designed, and many offer beautiful balconies or views of the Mediterranean. The bathrooms are particularly impressive, featuring white marble tiles and large rain showerheads, providing a sense of luxury and comfort.
Accessibility Challenges but Worth the Climb
It’s worth noting that Akotika may not be suitable for everyone due to its lack of accessibility. Some rooms require climbing steep stairs; for instance, one room is located up 45 steps, which may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. However, the panoramic view from the top makes the climb worthwhile for most visitors.
David, the hotel manager, explained their philosophy: “We aim to be very authentic, living among our neighbors in the Old City.” The rooms reflect this authenticity, with exposed stone walls and simple, yet comfortable furnishings. The bedding is crisp and white, and while the mini-bar was empty during the stay, the complimentary Nespresso machine more than made up for it.
A Respite for Israelis Amid Challenging Times
On weekends, Akotika is usually filled with Israeli guests, but during the week, it tends to be quieter. On one weekend, two women who had been solo parenting while their husbands were on military reserve duty chose Akotika for a much-needed break.
Like many areas in Israel, tourism in Acre has significantly declined since October 7, largely due to concerns over Hezbollah rockets from the north. Despite these fears, Acre has experienced fewer attacks than Tel Aviv, making it a relatively safe destination.
Exploring Acre’s Historic Charm
A day spent exploring Acre’s Old City is an experience steeped in history and culture. A visit to the famous Hummus Said, a popular vegetarian eatery that remains open on Shabbat, offers a taste of authentic local cuisine. The Templar Tunnel, a Crusader-era passageway connecting the Templar palace to Acre’s port, was virtually empty, adding a sense of serenity to the adventure.
Later in the afternoon, a short cruise around the city walls was the perfect way to enjoy the view of Acre from the water. For 70 shekels, a local captain named Imad provided a private tour, even allowing me to steer the boat. Afterward, we watched a picturesque sunset from the port, marking the end of a perfect day.
Gourmet Dining at Liwa Restaurant
As evening set in, we headed to Liwa, a rooftop restaurant at Akotika specializing in kosher Arab cuisine. Run by Bilal Wakid, who works as a CPA by day, the restaurant offers a unique menu based on fresh fish and local vegetables.
“The concept is Arab, Akko-ese, and authentic kosher food,” Bilal explained. The restaurant’s kashrut certification comes from the Tzohar rabbinical organization, ensuring a high standard of kosher dining.
Liwa offers dishes that are difficult to find in other kosher establishments. One standout is the shishbarak, traditionally a meat-filled dumpling served in yogurt sauce. Liwa’s version features fish-stuffed dumplings served in a tahini yogurt sauce. Other highlights included a raw fish tabbouleh and a tangy ceviche, both bursting with flavor from spices like lemon and sumac. The sea bass filet, which was fresh and cooked to perfection, was accompanied by a side dish called “mubathara,” a rice and black lentil dish similar to mujadara.
Sitting on the rooftop, sipping kosher Sauvignon Blanc, and listening to the sea, we felt far removed from the concerns of the world.
Breakfast with a View
The next morning, breakfast was served in the same rooftop restaurant. With a view of the sea and a refreshing breeze, we were treated to a selection of salads, including freshly made hummus and a smoked eggplant salad that left a lasting impression. The breads were freshly baked, with the pita topped with fragrant zaatar.
For the main dish, I opted for shakshuka, a popular Middle Eastern dish with just the right amount of spice. My husband enjoyed a raw fish bruschetta, which was equally delicious.
After breakfast, we made a quick stop at a local grocery store to buy zaatar and olive oil before heading back home, feeling as though we had just returned from a relaxing vacation abroad.
Special Rates and Discounts
Akotika offers special midweek rates and discounts for security personnel, including police and firefighters. For those looking for a peaceful seaside escape with a blend of historic charm and gourmet kosher cuisine, Akotika provides an unparalleled experience in the heart of Acre’s Old City.
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