Swimming Pools, Sunshine and Sand: 5 Desert Resorts That Are Worth The Drive

7 boutique suites in the heart of the Land of Genesis. Burning fire pits in the winter, rustling palm trees in the summer and an all-powerful caressing sun that always shines. Eretz Arava is a family owned establishment that caters exclusively to adults and group events of up to 100 people. A fine dining restaurant is located on site where you can indulge in the desert's most delicious delicacies. Tranquil landscapes surround the private mosaic pool of each suite that makes for a particularly romantic environment. The entire compound is exceptionally secluded, providing inspiring views of the Meshusha River Reserve and exclusive access to a private fruit orchard and organic vegetable farm. For a truly luxurious and seductive weekend getaway, Eretz Arava is certainly worth the drive.

From afar there is only desert. The presence of prehistoric nature is all encompassing. 13 mud huts stand in the distance against the backdrop of a dripping sunset. White camels, blooming acacias and the scent of a stone oven complete the ancient ambiance of a time that once was. This is Midbara. Guarded by the embracing mountains nearby, the Midbara compound humbly respects the power of the desert and its awe-inspiring beauty. By honoring the simplicity of the desert facade and combining it with elementary yet luxurious amenities, Midbara offers its guests an extraordinary experience that is truly unique. Apart from breathtaking views, heated pools and saunas, Midbara also provides access to yoga workshops, a ceramics studio and a desert agriculture tour. Local cheeses, homemade olives and freshly baked bread will be waiting on your doorstep each morning in anticipation of a strong coffee at sunrise. The silence and serenity of the desert awaits. Midbara waits to welcome.

The "dreamlike desert complex" that is Nof Zuqium is family owned by the lovely couple Dorit and Tomer Linzenberg with the help of their children. Their 12 cabins, named after specific desert streams, caters to couples and families alike, promising to deliver all that is necessary for a comfortable stay. The Linzenbergs proudly express their unconditional love for the desert through the uniqueness of Nof Zuqim that transcend words, in something of a spiritual retreat. They offer different wellness workshops and "desert bonding" social events alongside lectures over a variety of desert related topics as well as  "desert escape" activities designed to engage the guests in exploring the desert surroundings. This is definitely the right retreat for any true lover of the desert.

Voted the number one rental property by Mako in 2020, Zman Arava boasts a healthy reputation of outstanding hospitality and luxurious comfort. The property uses a combination of local materials to construct its 5 suites. Wood, palm fronds and clay brick maintain a rustic desert theme, while a carefully curated interior design provides stylish comfort that seamlessly blends into the Arava surroundings. Zman Arava manifests its essence as a dialogue between interior and exterior; between Man and Nature. The compound is a true desert oasis with several properties that offer different food options, spa treatments and desert excursions.

Set on the outskirts of the desert community of Mitzpe Ramon lies a green oasis of fruit trees and clay houses. Bait BaMidbar invites you to their home on the first line of the desert, where soft colors of golden sand meet with lush sunsets with deep hues of red. Each suite unit -which are cleverly named after a different desert animal- is equipped with a small kitchenette, a lush green garden and a private pool that is heated in the winter. The property also offers 4x4 desert excursions lead by professional tour guides and photographers. Bait BaMidbar is ideal for those who want to experience the desert, but one step at a time. Here you can comfortably enjoy rich sunsets and clear night skies without being to isolated.