Israel

Israel is a small Mediterranean country where, within a few hours’ drive, the coast gives way to hills, desert and the lowest point on land. Tel Aviv faces the sea: beaches and a promenade, the UNESCO-listed White City of Bauhaus buildings, Old Jaffa’s ancient port and lanes, restaurants and nightlife. In Jerusalem, the walled Old City, also a World Heritage Site, sits among markets, museums and pale stone neighbourhoods.

The Dead Sea lies more than 400 metres below sea level: its salty water lets you float, and spas work with its mineral mud. Masada and Ein Gedi are nearby. In the Negev, the Makhtesh Ramon crater brings desert stillness and dark skies for stargazing, with the Arava valley running south. Above Haifa and the sea, the wooded slopes of Mount Carmel are terraced by the UNESCO-listed Baháʼí Gardens.

Food is a reason in itself: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, hummus and pastries at the markets, modern restaurants and wines from Galilee, the Carmel and desert vineyards in the Negev. Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable; summer suits the beaches but is very hot in the desert and at the Dead Sea, while winter in the south is generally mild. Israel suits those combining city, beach, desert and spa, culture and food lovers, couples and wellness seekers.