Mitzpe Ramon - is a town in the Negev desert of southern Israel. It is situated on the northern ridge at an elevation of 2,400 feet (800m.) overlooking an enormous erosion cirque known as the Ramon Crater. This crater, or “Machtesh”, as it is called in Hebrew (a term also used by geologists around the world) is 28 miles long and five miles wide. It is a formation unique to Israel and the Sinai.
Climate
Due to the desert climate, Mitzpe Ramon experiences very hot summers and cold winters.
Accommodation:
Isrotel Beresheet Mitzpe Ramon Hotel
The combination of breath-taking desert scenery together with the unique architecture and top quality service makes Beresheet
one of the most extraordinary hotels in Israel.
Beresheet is one of the most successful hotels in Israel and it enjoys a large number of returning guests, both Israelis in tourists come back to this amazing hotel every year. Beresheet guarantees an unforgetable hospitality experience - great service, a gourmet restaurant, a luxury spa, elegant and comfortable rooms and of course, the second to none desert view.
Isrotel Ramon Inn
Isrotel Ramon Inn is a cozy, pleasant and intimate hotel of ninety-six rooms and suites, located near the breathtaking Ramon Crater. Isrotel Ramon Inn offers its guests many extreme activities: hiking or biking in Ramon Crater or other desert locations, camel riding, abseiling, ORVs tours, tours to Bedouin tent encampments, moonlight tours, meeting alpacas and more. At the end of a long and exciting day you will return to a quite and comfortable hotel, Isrotel Ramon Inn. Nature lovers, desert enthusiasts, families or bicycle riders will find the magic of the desert here with us.
Isrotel Ramon Inn takes pride in its main restaurant, we serve top-quality and homelike dishes with a Mediterranean touch. Guests may also enjoy our indoor pool, heated and open all year round, our saunas and body treatments.
Flora
Of all of Israel's desert regions, the Ramon area has the most varied and lush flora. This can be attributed to the variety of habitats found here and to the difference between the climactic conditions on the Ramon Ridge and those on the Machtesh floor. The high regions of the Ramon Ridge, such as Mizpe Ramon and the Loz Cisterns, have a steppian climate. Because of the cold desert winters, the flowers here bloom in late winter and early spring, a time when the ridge is awash with color.
The Machtesh floor is drier and hotter than the ridge. Saharo-Steppian flora (originating in the Sahara Desert and the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula) are most commonly seen here. The desert springs and the damp soil near them also give rise to a special habitat. Rushes, whose leaves have needle-like points, cattails, and reeds grow near the fresh water. This is evidence that there is groundwater close by, even if none is visible.
Fauna
Thanks to the variety of habitats in the Ramon region, many species of animals choose to make their homes here. Because of the size and remoteness of Machtesh Ramon and stringent nature-conservation efforts in the Ramon region, the Israel Nature and National Parks Protection Authority decided this would be an appropriate place for the reintroduction of animals which had disappeared from the Negev Desert landscape. One was the onager, a wild ass which cannot be domesticated.
The Nubian ibex, once in danger of becoming extinct in Israel, now romps happily on the cliffs of Machtesh Ramon. The Negev highlands also has populations of leopards, hyenas, dorcas gazelles, wolves, red foxes, Afghan foxes, caracals, sand foxes, and Syrian hyraxes. The small rodents - fat sand rat, garden dormoose, and golden spiny mouse - and the many reptiles in the Machtesh are harder to spot. These animals are on view at Bio-Ramon.
Night star gazing at the Mitzpe Ramon
The clear unpolluted air and the altitude of Mitzpe Ramon makes it a great place for star gazing at night. Hikers and bikers will find here interesting desert challenges. There are also a reasonable accommodations here for all : Guest House, Campground, B&B and hotels
Exploring the Wonders of Mizpe Ramon Israel
Exploring Ancient Sites
Mizpe Ramon has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Home to numerous ancient archaeological sites from different periods, including Mamshit National Park and Shivta National Park, it holds some of the most important historical artifacts in all of Israel. Touring these sites is an incredible way to learn about Jewish and Christian culture in a beautiful setting.
Experience Local Cuisine and Culture
Mizpe Ramon is also home to some amazing local cuisine and culture. With delicious restaurants serving up authentic Israeli dishes like falafel and shawarma! You can also take part in workshops with local artisans or visit nearby markets where vendors sell traditional handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Take a Hike (or two!)
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, then you’ll be pleased to know that Mizpe Ramon offers plenty of hiking options. From easy trails that wind through the desert landscape to more challenging hikes up steep mountain paths, there’s something for everyone here! You can even join guided tours led by experienced hikers who will show you all the best spots along the way.
