Mitzpe Ramon, Israel—Reported by Elite Traveler, the private jet lifestyle magazine
One hour by helicopter from Tel Aviv, this distinctive stone and glass property poised on the rim of the 24-mile, 1,300-foot-deep Ramon Crater is on the short list for well-heeled Israelis, but still a best-kept secret overseas. Long ago a dusty way station in the Negev Desert, Beresheet Hotel (“Genesis” in Hebrew) is the third property in the expanding Isrotel Luxury Collection (a fourth is slated to open in Tel Aviv next year). In 42 of the 111 chalets, glass walls open onto verandas boasting infinity plunge pools, while second-floor guests have especially stunning balcony views of the sunset-painted cliffs. If the family is in tow, book the 1,575-square-foot Presidential Suite ($3,000 a night) with three bedrooms, a kitchen, dining room, fireplace and gym, plus a private chef upon request. One could easily be content gazing out upon the raw beauty, but the primordial environs can also be explored by bike, jeep, hot air balloon and helicopter. Back at the hotel, a shimmering infinity pool seems to flow into the vastness of the crater itself. After a swim and a hot stone massage at Carmel Forest Spa, enjoy contemporary Middle Eastern fare and local wines at Rosemary Restaurant, then end the day with a film in Beresheet’s private screening room.
www.isrotelexclusivecollection.com