Six Senses opens first property in Israel

Six Senses Shaharut has opened in the Arava Valley in Israel’s Negev Desert.

A statement from the brand said the resort is already proving popular with national guests and is preparing to welcome international travellers as soon as border restrictions allow. It marks the brand's first property in Israel.

Six Senses Shaharut features 60 suites and villas; two pools, including a freshwater infinity pool with desert views; and a Six Senses spa with six treatment rooms, a variety of wellness programmes, an Alchemy Bar for mixing botanicals and visiting practitioners specialising in Chinese medicine, osteopathy and energy healing.

Food and beverage options include main restaurant Midian, the Edom View mezze and tapas venue, Jamillah lounge, poolside grill and a bar serving fresh juices. Guests can also choose a private chef for in-villa dining or venture out to enjoy a Bedouin style desert picnic.

An on-site Earth Lab showcases the resort’s approach to sustainability and the circular economy, camel stables, vegetable gardens and open-air amphitheatre.

Activities include camel treks through the desert, floating experiences in the Dead Sea, overnight camping, stargazing sessions, e-mountain bike tours, hiking, jeep excursions, a Shabbat dinner in a nearby community and other immersive Kibbutz experiences.

General manager Thomas Fehlbier said: “Six Senses Shaharut marks a new milestone for the brand as it enters another magical destination.

“After months of anticipation during these unprecedented times, I am very excited about this new opening.

“It brings the Six Senses ethos of sustainability, local sensitivity and wellness together with our unique desert culture and traditions.

“With a passionate team, we’ll work to create out-of- the-ordinary guest experiences in a setting of biblical proportions.”

Six Senses Shaharut is a three-and-a-half hour drive from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem and a three-hour drive from Petra in neighbouring Jordan.

Alternatively, guests can opt for a private helicopter transfer from Tel Aviv or a 45-minute car transfer via the new Ramon International Airport (ETM) near Eilat, which directly serves key European markets.