2 Best Hotels in Mitzpe Ramon and Makhtesh Ramon, Eilat and the Negev

Set in the slowly developing industrial zone, this unpretentious boutique restaurant--hotel has half a dozen high-ceilinged suites outfitted with modern furnishings, local beauty products, and cozy fireplaces—some even have private jetted tubs. The small restaurant has an outside seating area and serves Israeli breakfasts and homemade granola until 12:30. Lunch and dinner service starts at 12:30, featuring a seasonally changing menu of pasta, steak, chicken, and desserts.

There's nothing rugged about a stay at this charming desert hotel, which has an open fireplace in the lobby for chilly winter nights. Choose between pastel-and-white studio apartments (perfect for one or two) or two- or three-room suites (for up to six guests). Suites also have well-equipped kitchenettes where you can whip up your own meals. The 20-yard-long heated indoor swimming pool would not be out of place at any luxury hotel. The helpful staff is happy to arrange four-wheeling adventures, horseback riding tours, or nighttime excursions when there's a full moon. Even if you're not staying here, the restaurant is worth a visit; hearty buffet meals are enlivened by condiments made by local cooks.