Ein Gedi – Baths

The Ein Gedi Baths (or Ein Gedi Hot Springs) are a 45-minute drive south of Jerusalem in Israel’s Dead Sea region. They were the first ‘health facility’ in the country, having been established in 1963. Today, they not only provide a wide range of health treatments, but they are also a major tourist and local attraction. The’spa’ was originally just a modest cottage (built of asbestos) near a thermo-mineral spring. The facilities were renovated and the Ein Gedi Hotel was created only in the 1980s (replacing the nearby youth hostel). The baths here are officially called as the ‘Sea of Spa,’ and they give guests a pleasant experience as well as the chance to treat various health problems.

The hot waters of the adjacent mineral springs contain significant quantities of sulphur, which contributes to the appeal of these spas. Sulphur (which has an eggy odor) has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, making it perfect for treating acne and eczema. The baths’ exceptionally hot temperatures are ideal for soothing sore muscles and joints. Set against the background of the Dead Sea, guests can swim in awe-inspiring surroundings. They are run by the Kibbutz Ein Gedi and include six thermo-mineral pools as well as a huge outdoor fresh-water pool that is available during the summer. Massage and black mud facials are just two of the treatments available from professionals. The ticket includes a free shuttle service to the Dead Sea, as well as a restaurant and cafe on the site.

The Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, one of Israel’s most stunning hiking sites, lies close to the baths. It provides visitors with a variety of routes (varying in difficulty), some of which pass through ‘Wadi David.’ What’s intriguing about this is that, while a wadi is often a dry river stream in the desert, water is running here. The journey continues to the ‘David Waterfalls’ from here. The walk leads through sweet water ponds, concluding at the Ein Gedi Spring, for those who enjoy a challenge and are willing to climb. Wolves, foxes, ibex, eagles, and the famous Ein Gedi leopard live in the area.