Plesner Architects creates Six Senses desert wellness sanctuary in Israel's Negev desert
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has launched its brand new desert retreat called Six Senses Shaharut in Israel.
With its secluded setting laid into a dramatic cliff with panoramic views of the Negev Desert, the resort is home to a 1,900sq m spa realised by Tel Aviv-based Plesner Architects.
The facility is designed to offer a contemporary interpretation of nomadic structures, reminiscent of the Nabataean community which occupied the area over 2,000 years ago.
Using natural materials from the original setting, the two-level spa has been constructed in an eco-friendly manner and blends seamlessly into the desert’s landscape.
Designers used local stone, recycled wood and traditional tadelakt plaster to give the walls a natural, authentic and smooth finish.
Built as an oasis in the desert, the six-treatment-room spa draws the landscape and deep red palette of the local Edom Mountains into its walls. Alcoves complete the curved walls, which are home to Nabatean animal statues, acknowledging the habitat as it once was.
Facilities include an open-plan relaxation area, indoor pool, retail boutique, outdoor courtyard pergola with seating and an alchemy bar, alongside a gym, wellness studio, nail bar and separate-sex changing facilities with hammams and saunas.
There are also two pools including a freshwater infinity pool with desert views and a bar serving refreshing juices.
The spa has partnered with French skincare specialist Biologique Recherche and local product house Lavido to supply treatments.
Six Senses has also worked with spa and wellness equipment supplier Lemi to source equipment for the spa and collaborated with Fashionizer Spa to create bespoke spa uniforms.
In addition, the spa houses a signature Six Senses Alchemy Bar for mixing botanicals, a variety of wellness programmes and a schedule of visiting practitioners with specialities ranging from Traditional Chinese Medicine to osteopathy.
Resort GM Thomas Fehlbier commented: “Six Senses Shaharut marks a new milestone for the brand as it enters another magical destination. After months of anticipation, it brings the Six Senses ethos of sustainability, local sensitivity and wellness together with our unique desert culture and traditions.
“With a passionate team, we’ll work to create out-of-the-ordinary guest experiences in a setting of biblical proportions.”
The 60-key resort comprises suites and villas complete with interiors inspired by patterns and textures lining the ancient Incense Route, stretching from the Mediterranean across the Levant to India and beyond.
Furniture and fittings are sourced from local artisans to complement the surrounding unique weathered rock formations.
On-site, the desert activity centre incorporates Six Senses’ brand-wide Earth Lab scheme, showcasing the resort’s approach to sustainability in its efforts to reduce consumption.
Guests can also take their pick from an exciting activity schedule including sunrise yoga workshops, stargazing, hikes and desert camel treks along the ancient Incense Route.
The food on offer at the resort is a mix of Israeli and Mediterranean cuisines. Fresh, local and seasonal produce is harvested by the resort’s own organic garden or from local farmers at the nearby kibbutzim.
Guests can also opt for a private chef for in-villa dining or venture out on an authentic Bedouin dining experience with the region's best wines and a fire pit.
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