Six Senses Shaharut

While few countries can match Israel mile for mile for its abundance of significant historical and religious sites, it used to be that the country’s hotels were the least impressive part of a visit—more functional than anything. That started to change, however, over the last decade or so—and the 2021 opening of the Six Senses Shaharut marked the clearest evidence yet of lodgings living up to their locations. Built into a cliff in the Negev Desert, 3.5 hours south of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv by car and an hour north of the Red Sea port city of Eilat, the resort is set on 46 acres and comprised of 60 stone-adorned suites and pool villas. Visitors can expect the usual high-caliber wellness focus of the Six Senses brand, but aside from quality spa time the overwhelming highlight is the setting of dunes, sun and stars and their related activities: hiking and biking, as well as 4x4 jeep rides; outdoor tent dining and movie screenings. Overall, though, a few days here at the end of a busy Israel itinerary gives guests a chance to rest up and reflect on what they’ve seen and fully absorb the country’s setting (the Negev making up more than half of Israel’s landscape).

**The Standout:**The spa, whose treatment menu—which blends high-tech science with high-touch therapy—is 42 pages long

**Don't Miss:**The remote location and minimal light pollution make for incredible stargazing—a skyful of twinkling constellations

• Floor-to-ceiling windows framing long-distance desert views that seem both timeless and endless
• A visit to Kibbutz Lotan, an ecologically minded local community to learn about life on a kibbutz with a local guide
• Electric Hummer-brand vehicles, used to pick up and drop off guests throughout the property and ranging from golf carts and dune buggies to mini-Hummers

The new Six Senses Shaharut is located deep in the Negev Desert approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Tel Aviv or a quick flight to the new Eilat Ramon Airport (50 minutes flight + 50 minutes drive). For a more scenic and luxurious experience, guests can also take a private helicopter to the property’s on-site helipad.

The resort is composed of 60 suites and villas, each elegantly designed, featuring traditional Bedouin elements combined with modern amenities. The spacious suites are fitted with high-quality linens and large windows that provide stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings.

Couples seeking a romantic getaway will appreciate the resort's intimate atmosphere (including private outdoor spaces) and the range of indulgent spa treatments available. Families will appreciate the variety of activities available, including sandboarding and desert safaris, as well as the Kid's Club.

The resort has four dining options which include two outdoor lounges. Midian, the all-day dining restaurant, offers a range of international and local dishes with a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of healthy options, as well as more indulgent dishes in the evenings. Jamillah Bar and Music Shrine is the perfect before or after dinner spot, where guests can sit craft cocktails and dine on a tapas-inspired menu while listening to the resident DJ spinning hand-picked vinyl.

The Six Senses Spa is a true haven of peace and tranquility, offering an impressive range of treatments designed to soothe and rejuvenate the body and mind. The skilled therapists use natural ingredients and traditional techniques to create an indulgent spa experience. Saunas, steam rooms and hammams can be found in male and female changing areas and are a great way to start any treatment. Comprised of six treatment rooms and one presidential spa suite, the spa also features an 18-meter indoor pool, 25-meter outdoor lap pool, fully-equipped gym and yoga studio with desert views.

Israel is a very complex destination filled with history and culture. Touring generally consists of long days in the hot desert sun and although most activities are adventurous and educational, several days of touring can feel exhausting. The Six Senses Shaharut is truly an ideal place to relax after an extensive touring trip in Israel. Whether you are a couple, a family or a solo traveler looking to decompress, the Six Senses Shaharut is the perfect choice for a truly exceptional experience.

Those seeking a desert break after (or during) a typically busy itinerary.