Spas in Israel have been world-renowned since at least the time of the Romans and are even mentioned in the Bible! Perhaps the oldest is the Tiberias Hot Springs Spa located just outside the city of the same name. Upon the founding of Tiberias in 18CE the thermal springs became a resort for the leisure class the city and outside visitors seeking their health benefits and the unique relaxing properties of the waters. A bit further south another ancient spa called Hamat Gader has been modernized and now offers mineral water springs, recreations and health facilities and even underground Jacuzzis and a boutique hotel.
The best known Spas in Israel are located at the Dead Sea, a body of water whose healthful waters and medical benefits have been long been famous. In modern times the development of the area was geared toward health and rehabilitation for injured soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces to Russian war veterans of World War II. They were brought to the Dead Sea are to take advantage of the mineral rich waters, filtered sunlight and special desert air. Today tourists flock to the Dead Sea for treatments of skin ailments, joint and respiratory diseases.
Many Spas in Israel at the Dead Sea have added an emphasis on promoting overall health and wellness. The shoreline of the Dead Sea is lined with hotels of every level from super deluxe to modest and comfortable each with its spa where pampering massages, mud baths, cosmetic treatments and relaxing saunas offer a respite from the stresses of the modern world. Many also have programs and activities for children so whole families can enjoy the benefits of a Dead Sea vacation.
A description of Spas in Israel would not be complete without mentioning the world-class Carmel Forest Spa located in the Carmel Mountains outside of Haifa. A front-page spread in the travel section of the New York Times a few years ago described the delights available to discerning guests of the Spa. The Carmel Forest Spa operates at the highest level of luxury with service, gourmet meals and facilities second to none. With no children allowed the spa resort is an island of tranquilty in the lush green north.
Located near the mystical Kabbalisitc city of Safed and quaint artists ’village of Rosh Pina is another one of a kind spa. Mitzpe Hayamim caters to ecologically and environmentally oriented guests with its organic foods and European style. It makes its own cheeses and breads, and raises goats, cows, sheep chickens and vegetables on its organic farms. It is set in the midst of fragrant gardens, with walking paths winding around quiet pools and running water.
Many kibbutzim located throughout the country and especially in the Negev desert have created their own special spas with an emphasis on holistic treatments and total wellness.
Along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in the resort city of Herzliyah one can find luxury hotels with deluxe spas rivaling those of Europe.
The Spas of Israel are the destination of choice for visitors who wish to combine an exciting vacation with the very best of relaxation and pampering!
Israel Hotels