Lonely Planet Review

Occupying a splendid 17th century house on a busy narrow alley in the Christian Quarter, this intimate boutique hotel offers up a singular experience - the chance to stay in an exquisite old Damascene house and to get acquainted with a fascinating part of the Old City.

The experience starts as soon as the friendly staff settle you in with a welcome drink in the open-air liwan (summer room) which overlooks the elegant Damascene architecture and tranquil courtyard. With a sense of intimacy ensured by the eight rooms, it won't be long before you're chatting with the personable staff and other travellers, but when you want privacy you can retreat to several rooftop terraces and patios. Rooms are beautifully decorated with rich brocades, heavy drapes, oriental chandeliers and impressive attention to detail, from the fine decorative painting on the walls to the television and air-conditioning cleverly hidden away. Owner Mai Marmarbachi painstakingly restored the building over three years and takes pride in little touches like fresh flowers, candies in brass dishes, preserved sweets by your bed at night, and a complimentary (non-alcoholic) mini-bar.