Frommer's Review
One of Jerusalem's most architecturally interesting hotels, the Mount Zion is partly composed of renovated 19th- and early-20th-century Jerusalem stone buildings that have been carefully blended into a modern complex. The entire structure is built on a hillside shared by Jerusalem's fashionable Cinémathèque -- you enter the hotel from the top and work your way down six levels. The terraces, sprawling wings, hidden gardens, and swimming pool offer views of the Old City, the Mount of Olives, and the Hinnom Valley that outdo those of the King David Hotel. Most rooms have been recently renovated and are decorated with Moroccan touches that fit nicely with the old stone walls. In the exotic, renovated Executive and Junior suites and in the heavily redone Citadel rooms the Moroccan decor is more extensive and charming. For those who love romance and views, these rooms are among the most dazzling in Jerusalem and worth the extra charge (an extra $35-$55 a night). Suites are equipped with kitchenettes and minibars; many rooms have minifridges. A fabulous two-story garden villa that can accommodate an extended family starts at $1,500 a night. Look for the hotel's authentic 19th-century hammam (therapeutic Ottoman era hot bath/steam room), which may be functioning during the time span of this edition. Although unique and dramatic, this is still a moderate hotel with moderate-level services, amenities and rates; that said, it's on its way up, and with upgrading, could become a boutique hotel gem, so catch it at these prices while you can.
Tip: Manager Orit Margalit has offered guests who book independently and present Frommer's Israel, a 10% reduction for stays of more than 3 days. Let Reception know when you check in.
Facilities:
Dining room; lobby bar/cafe; outdoor pool; exercise room; Jacuzzi; sauna (fee); Turkish steam room (fee); massage room
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
