The Dan Carmel Hotel

It's an old hotel, but still a nice one, and I liked it. Reception was friendly and efficient, and arranged a high floor for me. My room was very spacious, and the lounge was peaceful, though the food and drink options there were limited. I think it's Haifa's top hotel, matching the number one spot on trip.com.

The pool has plenty of seats, though some are out in the sun, and the breakfast was fantastic, with lots of fresh choices, many prepared on site. Our room was comfortable and the Haifa Bay view was one of the best I've seen from a hotel. The property was generally well maintained, and I'd consider coming back, maybe with the kids next time. Check-in was frustrating. The line had no clear beginning or end, and staff served whoever reached the counter first. Help with luggage on the entrance stairs, and a little personal attention at arrival and departure, would improve things. Breakfast also felt disorganized: they asked for our room number but didn't always guide people to seats, and guests sometimes took tables we'd started using. The hotel looked full and didn't seem fully ready to keep service smooth when busy. Still, the view, room and breakfast made for a very positive weekend stay.

The buffet dinner was barely enjoyable, close to inedible, and the servers were unfriendly and inattentive. It wasn't worth the price. Breakfast was a little better, but still fell short of what we're used to at other DAN hotels. Service in both the dining area and by the pool was very poor and unaccommodating. We stayed one night and had a warm welcome at reception, where our two children were given gifts. The rooms were very spacious with a great view, and the pool was clean and cosy.

The rooms and interior are a little dated, but they're well maintained and still give the place a luxurious, high-quality feel. Service was excellent and attentive, even in the August rush when the hotel was packed with families. Great views over Haifa Bay and the Mediterranean. Highly recommended.