When visiting Israel, many travelers instinctively turn to hotels — but there's another option that offers a more peaceful, personal experience: the Zimmer.
What Is a Zimmer?
In Israel, a Zimmer refers to a private cabin or guesthouse, usually located in the countryside. These charming places offer a quieter alternative to busy hotels. You'll often find Zimmers nestled in scenic locations — surrounded by forests, overlooking valleys, or facing desert landscapes. Unlike hotels, where you might share space with dozens of other guests, a Zimmer gives you privacy, comfort, and quiet.
Why Choose a Zimmer?
Picture this: after a long day of sightseeing, all you want is a calm evening. But instead, the hotel is full of noise — kids running in the hallway, guests talking loudly next door. In a Zimmer, the experience is entirely different. You can relax in a private space, unwind in a hot tub, enjoy a local breakfast, or simply sit on the porch and take in the view.
Zimmers are popular across Israel:
- Northern Israel – Galilee, Golan Heights, and Hula Valley (1-2 hours from Tel Aviv)
- Coastal regions – overlooking the Mediterranean Sea (accessible from major cities)
- Desert areas – including cabins with views of the Judean Desert (90 minutes from Jerusalem)
- Agricultural communities – such as kibbutzim and moshavim
Pro tip: Book your Zimmer well in advance during peak seasons (holidays, summer months) as the best locations fill up quickly.
Zimmer vs. Hotel – What's the Difference?
| Feature | Hotel | Zimmer (Guest Cabin) |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Busy, social, often crowded | Quiet, private, and personal |
| Location | City centers and tourist hubs | Countryside, nature reserves, rural areas |
| Type of accommodation | Room in a shared building | Independent unit or cabin |
| Ideal for | Short stays, business trips | Couples, families, romantic getaways |
| Services & amenities | Restaurants, pools, concierge, room service | Kitchenette, private garden, hot tub, homemade breakfast |
| Noise level | High, especially during peak seasons | Low – peaceful and calm |
| Local feel | Generic and international | Authentic and Israeli |
Travel at Your Own Pace with Israel Car Rental
Choosing a Zimmer means you're not tied to big city centers — and this is where a rental car makes all the difference. With the freedom to drive, you can stay off the beaten path, explore small villages, hike scenic trails, and experience local life up close.
Tamir Car Rental, with 50 years of experience in Israel's car rental industry, provides reliable, affordable vehicles to reach even the most peaceful, out-of-the-way locations. As a family-owned business operating since 1972, we understand that the journey to your countryside accommodation Israel getaway should be as smooth as your stay.
Our multilingual staff ensures you're comfortable with local traffic rules, and with our pickup service available anywhere in Israel — including Ben Gurion Airport — you can start your Zimmer adventure the moment you arrive.
Ready to Discover Israel's Peaceful Side?
Book your Israel car rental with Tamir today and unlock access to the country's most charming Zimmers. With our 50 years of experience, 24/7 support, and pickup service from anywhere in Israel, your perfect countryside getaway is just a phone call away.
