The twisting alleys of the old city are the perfect place to have a cool beer and a genuine Austrian apple strudel with a marvelous view of the Dome of the Rock, Church Of The Holy Sepulcher, and most of the old city.
Where is this wonder located you may ask? At the Austrian hospice of course.
Founded in 1857 the hospice, which no longer serves as a hospital, provides a great combination of sanctity, contemporary art and classy accommodation for Christian pilgrims and tourist at the rim of the old city. The hospice forms a tranquil island in the never ending buzz of the old city markets.
Getting there:
follow the Via Dolorosa st' up to the cross with Hagay st' (3rd stop on the Via Dolorosa tour), the hospice is located at the north-east side of the intersection (the orientation in the old city is a pain, so don't hesitate to ask around). Go to the wide front door and ring the intercom, climb up the stairs and get to the Viennese café of the first floor. Arm yourself with a hot apple strudel and a bottle of beer (personal favorite: Taybeh beer, made in the Palestinian territories) .take a seat in the peaceful garden near the café or load your treats on a tray an clime up to the marvelous roof terrace where a single bench awaits you along with a breathtaking view of the old city.
For more info on the Austrian hospice visit
www.austrianhospice.com
For a detailed map of the old city visit
www.eyeonisrael.com
For more info on great hostels and unique spots visit our
hostels section.
