People come to Tzfat in a variety of ways, and for a variety of reasons. Some come because of the scenery, some because they are drawn religiously, some because they want to find themselves, and some come because something, somewhere, somehow told them that Tzfat was the place where they should be.
Roni and Genine Bar-El seem to fit into the last category. Roni is a native Israeli, and Genine grew up in New York. They met while each was on their own journey in the Far East, looking for the "click" that would bring them closer to a spirituality that they were both searching for.
After marrying, Roni and Genine came to Tzfat and bought an old stone house in Tzfat's Artist Quarter. They combined their skills in construction and interior design to renovate the house, learning as they went along about the complexities of renovating a house that is hundreds of years old transforming it into a modern, comfortable home. In the end, their efforts paid off, and they decided to start to host visiting groups for meals which Roni, a chef, catered.
The Bar-Els are natural hosts, and thoroughly enjoyed having visitors join them in their home. They soon began to open their extra apartment as a Guest House, and the Bar El Guest House has today developed a reputation as one of Tzfat's most stunning and comfortable B&Bs.
The Bar El Bed and Breakfast is located next to the Bar-Els home, in a newly renovated old stone house. It overlooks Mount Meron where one can sit on the porch and enjoy the sunsets. The Moroccan motif gives the impression of Old World ease, but guests enjoy satellite television, wireless internet and all other modern conveniences.
The guest house has two rooms, a master bedroom with a private bathroom and kitchenette and a living room where more beds can be set up. All Shabbat amenities are available, and it can comfortably host 5 people.
A highlight of a stay at the Bar-Els is the breakfast, prepared by chef Roni. Roni studied at Israel's Culinary Institute, Tadmor, and is renowned, not only in Tzfat but throughout Israel, for his culinary artistry. He is a sought-after chef, and it is a privilege to be able to enjoy one of his breakfasts, as a guest of the B&B.
The Bar El Guesthouse has also received rave reviews in both the Frommers Guide Book to Israel and in Lonely Planet.
To contact the Bar El Guest house, write to [email protected] or call 050 5650073.