2 Best Hotels in Akko, Haifa and the Northern Coast

Founded in 1963, this ecumenical Christian settlement—whose name, which means "Sign of the Nations," is taken from Isaiah—between Akko and Nahariya focuses on mutual respect and tolerance; it also runs a hotel, where you're invited to chat with members of the community, who are also happy to take you around the beautifully landscaped grounds. Lodging options are either standard rooms or kibbutz apartments with kitchenettes. The setting, 10 km (6 miles) north of Akko, is picturesque and rural, once you get past the dismal approach road.

A private beach with exceptional views and a country club with state-of-the-art facilities make this hotel a great deal, especially for families. There's a huge outdoor pool in a sprawling grassy area where wooden walkways lead down to the curving bay. The views are fantastic: on one side you can see Old Akko's blue domes, skinny minarets, and stone walls; on the other, the Carmel mountains behind Haifa. For youngsters there's a children's pool, and for adults a Turkish bath with wet and dry saunas. There's also a bar in the cheerful lobby.