Sightsee at the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on the earth’s surface. Located more than 400 meters below sea level, it runs between Israel and Jordan. The main inflow of water originates from the Jordan River. However, it has no outlet, and the intense heat of Southern Israel causes great water evaporation from its surface. The salt content is so high that no plants or animals can live in the water, and this is the reason for its name. But the Dead Sea has advantages too: the high salt content allows bathers to float on the sea surface effortlessly. You can’t sink in this sea, so you can read a newspaper or just rest as you float on the surface. Many cosmetic companies delight in this sea, and call it the Sea of Life, as it contains so many beneficial minerals. The Dead Sea is one of the most incredible places and the world’s first natural spa. The Dead Sea mud is world famous, and many nurturing skin products owe their content to this sea’s minerals.
Historical Treasures
The caves of Qumran are not to be missed, as it was here that the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. These scrolls were written on parchment and papyrus in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek by members of a strictly observant Jewish sect named the Essenes, who lived in the area at around 150 BC. The collection includes over 500 manuscripts of books of the Old Testament and various additional religious texts. Several utilitarian and religious structures of the ancient community society remain among the ruins, in addition to the cave in which the scrolls were discovered.
Dead Sea Beaches
Mineral beach has everything a tired traveler could desire: the beach itself for fun and floating, a resort with a swimming pool and facilities, sulphur pools, and restaurants. Kalia beach is another top tourist attraction, as is the Ein Gedi public beach. Do be sure to bring shoes to this beach, as the way to the water is paved by stones which are not feet-friendly! Ein Gedi offers more luxurious delights, offered in the private Ein Gedi spa. In addition to spa treatments, sulphur pools and a swimming pool are available at this resort. People from all over the world flock to the Dead Sea to cure their skin ailments.
Green Relief
If you want a refreshing change from dry desert hills and salt water, Israel VIP offers you the lush scenery of a local river bed trail. The David and Arugot rivers, also known as Wadis, the Arabic term for river bed, comprise the Ein Gedi Nature Park. Hikers find trails along these river beds delightful, with lush scenery, beautiful waterfalls and gushing springs. These hiking trails also boast historical landmarks. You may come across an ancient Chalcolithic temple dedicated to the cult of the moon, a Roman fort, an Israelite stronghold, and a fifth century synagogue. Israel VIP guides can span the centuries and provide fluent, fascinating explanations about all historical sites.
Don’t forget to visit Mount Sodom, to complete your Dead Sea tour. This rock-salt mountain may be the lowest mountain in the work, residing more than 170 meters below sea level, but its religious factor cannot be ignored. This is one of the sites traditionally considered to be the Sodom mentioned in the Old Testament.
Contact Israel VIP to see the Dead Sea – and so much more!
