A desert vacation in Mitzpe Ramon

For a while now, I've been toying with the idea of a family vacation in Israel, specifically a family vacation in the desert. There's something about the quiet of the desert and its endless landscapes that always fascinates and draws me in. The last time we traveled in the area was as a couple, back during the COVID period, and since then, I've just been waiting to return. We went on a magical desert weekend, just us and DanDan, and discovered that you don't need to board a plane to disconnect and feel like you're abroad. So, here is my recommendation for two days of disconnection in the desert.

Accommodation

We chose to stay at Noam Desert Ranch in the glamping area. Noam Desert Ranch is located about a five-minute drive from Mitzpe Ramon and spans a vast area. The site offers several accommodation options, and this was actually our second time staying here. The previous time, we stayed in the cabin area, but this time, we decided to try the new and unique area called the Desert Dome. The dome tents, familiar to us from pictures of luxury glamping abroad, are round, semi-transparent tents that provide an experience of sleeping in nature with the luxurious amenities of glamping.

The site has four dome tents, each equipped with private showers and toilets, a small pool, and a seating area that includes a barbecue and a campfire. In the air-conditioned tent, you can find everything needed to complete the experience: a mini-bar stocked with goodies, including wine and soft drinks, chocolates, and a variety of treats (all included in the price!), kitchen utensils and cutlery, and a coffee machine with milk.

The dome's terrace overlooks the open vineyard landscape, and despite the fact that the other four tents were fully occupied during our stay, we felt completely alone in our intimate experience.

There's something addictive about the desert at night; the stars seem closer than ever, and everyday life feels light-years away. Even though we were traveling with a child, this vacation was one of the most romantic we've experienced. Every evening after Dandan fell asleep in the tent, we lit a campfire, opened a bottle of wine, and toasted marshmallows. It was such a delight to eat potatoes cooked in the campfire and simply enjoy the desert's tranquility.

Points of Interest

Alpaca Farm - This unique farm is the only one of its kind in the world, home to over 200 alpacas and llamas bred for wool production. The first alpacas were brought to the farm from South America about 36 years ago, and their descendants have been growing and thriving on the farm ever since. During the visit, you receive an explanation about the history of the farm's establishment, the alpacas and llamas, and the differences between them. Afterward, you get a bag of food to feed the animals. In addition to alpacas, the farm also raises goats, donkeys, and horses.

Ramon Crater Visitor Center - The Ramon Visitor Center, located right above Ramon Crater and overlooking it, is a historical center dedicated to two main themes. During the visit, you go through a tour of four rooms. The first two rooms are dedicated to the legacy and commemoration of Israel's first astronaut, Colonel Ilan Ramon, and the story of the Space Shuttle Columbia. The last two rooms explain the amazing geological phenomenon of the formation of Ramon Crater, the largest erosion crater in the world. The visit lasts about an hour to an hour and a half and is especially recommended if you're looking for an air-conditioned activity in the desert weather.

Ramon Colors Park - A spot we planned to visit but didn't get to this time. Ramon Colors National Park is a driving route that goes through Ramon Crater, with built-in stopping points and short trails. The park is located in an area that was once a mining site for mineral extraction, and today its walls reveal unique colors of the rocks.

Restaurants and Wineries

Nana Winery - Nana Winery is a desert winery located about a ten-minute drive from Mitzpe Ramon. The winery and its prominent green vineyard in the desert landscape produce boutique wines that are among the most beautiful I've encountered. During a visit to the winery, you can taste wines or order wine by the glass or bottle, alongside a selection of local breads and cheeses.

Kornmehl Farm - Kornmehl Farm is located about a half-hour drive north of Mitzpe Ramon, and it was actually our first stop on the way. It is the first farm founded on the wine route, situated on a hill overlooking a desert landscape and home to goats raised for the production of quality cheese and milk. At the farm's restaurant, you can taste a variety of dishes made from goat cheese and also purchase homemade cheeses. The cheeses we tasted were amazing, and the view was breathtaking! Highly recommended.

Daganit's Courtyard - Home Hospitality at Daganit's Courtyard specializes in South Indian cuisine. Delicate and refined Indian dishes are served right in the courtyard of the house, in a pastoral atmosphere. The hospitality takes place on Thursdays and requires advance coordination if you plan to visit.

Sumsomia - A modern Mediterranean seafood restaurant in the center of Mitzpe Ramon. It offers a simple and delicious meat menu. Since the place is quite small, it's recommended to book a table in advance.