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Neot Semadar – A Desert Village with a Global Impact
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Neot Semadar – A Desert Village with a Global Impact

Arava travel guide

In the heart of Israel’s southern Arava, between Mitzpe Ramon and Eilat, lies Kibbutz Neot Semadar – a desert oasis of creativity, sustainability, and community. Recently, Neot Semadar received international recognition when it was selected by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) as one of the 250 Best Tourism Villages in the World for 2025.

🏆 A Source of Israeli Pride

Being named one of the world’s leading tourism villages is no coincidence. The award acknowledges Neot Semadar’s unique model of community life, desert innovation, and sustainable tourism.
Founded in 1989, the kibbutz is home to about 250 residents – families, children, and volunteers from Israel and around the world – and is built on the values of cooperation, listening, and creativity.

Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Haim Katz, congratulated the community, saying:

“Neot Semadar represents the best of the Israeli spirit – a blend of innovation, sustainability, and community.”

Dr. Hanan Ginat, head of the Hevel Eilot Regional Council, added:

“This recognition by the UN is a great honor for the southern Arava and for a community that chose to live differently – with vision, sustainability, and creativity.”

🌞 Sustainable Tourism and Desert Innovation

Neot Semadar has become a model for ecological and rural tourism worldwide. A visit to the kibbutz is not just a getaway – it’s an inspiring lesson in sustainable living. The community operates with deep environmental responsibility, using renewable energy, desert architecture, and a holistic approach that connects people, nature, and culture.

Visitors can explore the House of the Arts, the local winery, eco-friendly guest rooms, and the desert inn, or take part in creative workshops that celebrate the spirit of craftsmanship and mindfulness.

🎨 Art, Food, and Community Connection

At the heart of the kibbutz stands the Art Center, where members create works in ceramics, wood, glass, painting, and textiles. The Neot Semadar Winery, housed in a stunning desert-style building, produces high-quality wines crafted with care and love for the land.

Guests often describe their stay as transformative. One visitor shared:

“They hosted us wonderfully. A perfect place for beautiful photos and special wine tastings made right here.”

Others mention the rare quiet, family-friendly atmosphere, and the unique aesthetic that makes Neot Semadar so unforgettable.

🌍 Part of a Global Network of Excellence

The UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages initiative honors rural destinations that exemplify excellence in community-based tourism, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation.
Neot Semadar was chosen from over 270 villages across 65 countries, joining an elite network of about 250 rural communities worldwide – all shining examples of locally rooted and innovative tourism.

💫 A Desert Inspiration for the World

Neot Semadar is much more than a kibbutz or a travel destination – it’s a story of conscious living. A place where community, art, and nature merge into harmony, showing that it’s possible to create a sustainable, creative, and inspiring life – even in the heart of the desert.

Lotan Desert hotel - An Unforgettable Family Adventure in the Southern Arava

Lotan Desert hotel - An Unforgettable Family Adventure in the Southern Arava

As a family of four from the USA, we embarked on an incredible journey to the Southern Arava and had the privilege of staying at the Lotan Desert Travelers Hotel. This unique hotel offered us an experience unlike any other, immersing us in the breathtaking beauty of the desert while providing exceptional hospitality suitable for both couples and families. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the enchanting desert landscapes surrounding the hotel. The pristine sand dunes, desert mountains, and fascinating wildlife immediately transported us to a different world. The air was so clear, and the silence was so refreshing, giving us a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our kids were thrilled to discover that staying in the desert meant a slower pace and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. We spent evenings gathered around a bonfire under the mesmerizing starry sky, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. During the day, we ventured out for picnics on the dunes, sipping herbal tea and marveling at the vastness of the desert. The hotel itself exceeded our expectations in every way. Set within a kibbutz, it offered a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made us feel at home. The kibbutz had numerous attractions, and our children had a blast at Eco Fun, a colorful and interactive ecological park. They enjoyed exploring the gardens, playing in the playground, and participating in the engaging ecological activities. Our family room at the hotel was perfect for our needs. Decorated with artistic mud plaster, it perfectly captured the essence of the desert. Our kids loved the novelty of the bunk beds, while my partner and I enjoyed the comfortable double bed. The room had a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, coffee corner, kettle, and mini fridge, allowing us to prepare simple meals and snacks whenever we needed. The hotel's amenities were top-notch. We spent delightful afternoons lounging in the pleasant seating areas under the shade of trees, taking in the breathtaking views of the Red Mountains during sunset. The kibbutz pool provided a welcome respite from the desert heat, and our kids had a blast splashing around and playing in the water. The Eco-Fun Park was a hit with our whole family, providing hours of entertainment and adventure. One of the highlights of our stay was indulging in the delicious meals served at the Super Food Truck. The variety of dishes offered satisfied even our pickiest eaters, and we enjoyed trying the different flavors while relaxing in the colorful and shaded Eco-Fun complex. Our time at the Lotan Desert Travelers Hotel was truly unforgettable. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction, and their warm hospitality made us feel like part of the extended family. The entire experience was a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature. If you're planning a family vacation and seeking a unique and experiential destination, we highly recommend heading to the Southern Arava and staying at the Lotan Desert Travelers Hotel. It's a place where lifelong memories are made, and where the desert's magic unfolds before your eyes. We can't wait to return and create even more cherished moments in this desert oasis.

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