Mitzpe Ramon

Mitzpe Ramon is a quiet southern little town with several special gifts of nature, fresh air, wild life and 2 huge crates.  According to geological theory, over the course of time, cracks in the earth’s surface were eroded away along the ridges of the Negev highland mountains. The great force from tremendous floods of winter eventually washed away these ridges and left only huge open spaces. These cirques are often called craters (Although they were not formed by meteors nor by volcanic activity). Geologists refer to them by their Hebrew name “Machtesh”.

Forty kilometers long and about 10 meters wide, the largest of these unique geological formations is called Machtesh Ramon, and the little town of Mizpe Ramon, is located on a western cliff with a spectacular view of the “crater”.

Founded after the establishment of the State of Israel in the 1950’s, the residents of Miztpe Ramon are mainly employed in the tourist industry that has developed over the last few decades. Machtesh Ramon has been declared a Geological Park, and is slated to be preserved for future generations.

Activities:

Most activities that you’ll find have to do with the unique habitat around:

• Cliff climbing
• Star observation
• tracking through the large crate and the small crate.
• There are many tour guides around and organized Jeep tours. Expect breathtaking view and pleasant encounters with curious wild animals around.
• Ovdat ancient city is a must see archeological site on a hill, 10 minutes drive away. If you come from north of Mizpe, you should see it along the way.

Nightlife:

Don’t expect Tel Aviv’s nightlife in Mitzpeh, but you really do not need any. The landscape is beautiful and calming.
Mitzpe does have a few restaurants, grocery stores, a bank, some more stores and a  pub or two that are located on the outskirts of the town (2 minutes drive by car).

Accommodation:

The hotel RAMON INN is located in the town center, built in 1993 and offers a cozy atmosphere, with unique colors and furnishings of the natural beauty of the surrounding desert. There is a coffee shop, bar, mini-market, self serve Laundromat and Covered swimming pool.
The last time I’ve been there (I still remember the date, 31.12.1999, with all the Y2K scare. Turned out computers didn’t frick out and the world was saved!) I had a lot of fun and enjoyed my stay very much.
Asside from the hotel there are many private rooms and apartments that town residents rent around the year.