Back to nature

Playfully sliding into the swimming pools, rejuvenating in the thermal pools, or dining on delectable cuisine, Hamat Gader provides a naturally exquisite experience, for visitors of all ages

Reuters | Published: 09.25.06, 16:08

South east of Lake Kinneret, on the banks of the Yarmuk River, lies Hamat Gader, a green oasis beautifully contrasting with the dry slopes surrounding it. Along with Masada, Hamat Gader is considered Israel’s most popular tourist site.

Hamat Gader has recently seen a marked difference in vacationing conditions thanks to enormous investments made this past year. According to Hamat Gader CEO, Dani Lobenstien, the war greatly affected tourism in the north, which lead to a decision to lower vacationing prices.

Hamat Gader Alligator farm (Photo: Avi Ochiun GPO)

The main pleasure offered by Hamat Gader is found in the ‘healthy scented’ waters of the thermo-mineral springs which are at a constant temperature of 42 degrees Celsius. The springs’ ample water supply and absence of human intervention or artificial heating or cooling ensures the water’s cleanliness.

A dry sauna, a regular water swimming pool, a 10 meter high slide, a dance floor for ‘wet’ parties, and an international cuisine restaurant called ‘Siam’, are all included in a complete activities package offered at the Hamat Gader springs park.

Other attractions at the park are the alligator farm, the parrot show, the birdhouse, and “Monica”, an eight meter long python who lives in a transparent room. Children can enjoy a petting zoo and a mini wildlife area.

Entrance to the park is NIS 36 on weekdays, and NIS 46 on weekends. Tel. 04-6655555

Homage to Roman Hedonism

Gader was a rich Hellenistic city, and Hamat Gader was its pampered suburb. Construction of its baths began in the second century by the local Roman legion who wanted to pamper his officers who where far from home.

The “Spa Village” hotel was built as a modern sequel to this Roman style hedonism, and puts an emphasis on pampering and pleasure.

The hotel and its spectacularly cultivated surroundings were planned with the four elements - water, air, earth, fire – in mind, and work together to provide a sense of perfect harmony.

Each suite at the “Spa Village” has a magnificent Jacuzzi, fed by Hamat Gader’s thermo-mineral springs. In addition, each suite offers a free min bar stocked with goodness, a bottle of wine, and mini treats. The grand presidential suite is even bigger and offers velvety towel robes, alcoholic drinks, an espresso machine, and plasma screen.

The hotel baths are situated far from the crowd and provide a romantic atmosphere. Air conditioned treatment rooms offer various alternative medicine treatments. A trip to the dry or wet sauna following a relaxing treatment could be a wonderful idea. Early risers may like to start off with a lavish breakfasts at the “Blue Bear” café, which can be found at the baths.

“Spa Village” caters to visitors aged 16 and up. Prices range from NIS 1400 to NIS 2700 per guest. Tel. 04-6655555