Mitzpe Ramon Negev Desert, Israel
Opened
2011
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Design Resort LocalOutside the door
The house
IsrotelCrater-rim stone resort
The resort sits half a mile above sea level on the crater lip, looking out across a silent, primeval desert.
“Outside, local stone and wood blend with the desert landscape. Inside, a palette of brown, tan, and beige contrasts with crisp white linens.”
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
The hotel’s design, making liberal use of local stone and wood, complements the desert landscape — and from the rooms’ large, private balconies, it’s easy to get lost in the sweeping, unobstructed views.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The Albert Promenade runs along the cliff edge nearby, leading past desert sculptures toward hiking trails into the crater.
The rooms
Thirty-nine ground-floor villas have private plunge pools, and upper rooms open onto balconies looking straight into the crater.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The outdoor pool runs right up to the cliff drop-off, surrounded by sun loungers facing the crater below.
The spa and gym
A mosaic-tiled Turkish hammam sits under vaulted ceilings in the spa, and the fitness room is lined with cardio machines.
At the table
Rosemary serves local Negev goat cheese beside floor-to-ceiling crater views, and the lobby lounge gathers around a suspended circular fireplace.
How it began
The name means in the beginning in Hebrew, honoring the primordial landscape and ancient geology of the crater.
The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.