Shtarkman Erna Boutique Hotel

In the 1930’s, Dr. Alois Shtarkman bought land near the seashore for the price of what was then the equivalent of three monthly salaries. The plot was vacant until the late 1950s, when the decision was made to build two houses for the Shtarkman Family (Alois and Charlotte) and the Bendheim Family (Erna and Herman).

The Birth of “Pension Erna” (1960s–1970s)

At the beginning of the 1960’s, Dr. Alois Shtarkman traveled to the United States with his wife and son Michael for work purposes, while Erna remained in Israel and began to operate the homes as “Pension Erna” for hosting summer campers.

It was such a great success thanks to Erna’s warm hospitality and wonderful cakes; the hotel was best known for her apple strudel.

Upon the return of the Shtarkman family from America, and in light of its success, the building was expanded, and its name was changed to “Erna’s House.”

The two sisters reunited and ran the hotel together. In 1974, Charlotte died, and Erna remained to help Michael, who took over the management of the hotel. Michael introduced a “young spirit” to the hotel and invested it with all his strength, special character, and sense of humor, which brought many guests from Israel and around the world.

Generational Transitions & Prosperity (1980s–2000s)

In 1982 Michael married Hannah, and immediately afterward, Erna died, and the founders’ chapter ended. Soon they had four daughters who grew into the family hotel. The city of Nahariya prospered and so did the hotel, and that period will always be remembered.

Modern Renewal & Feminine Leadership

In 2001, Michael passed away, and in 2014, the family decided that the hotel would undergo extensive refurbishment, yet still preserve some of the original furniture as the family’s legacy. Today, the hotel is managed by the women of the family’s third generation, and its feminine leadership style can be seen in every aspect. They put great emphasis on aesthetics, never compromise on cleanliness, and the service is compassionate, yet meticulous and precise.