Six Senses has opened the doors to its new 60-key retreat in Israel’s southern Negev Desert, complete with a 1,900sq m, two-level spa and wellness sanctuary.

Six Senses Shaharut and its spa have been designed by Tel Aviv-based Plesner Architects to offer a contemporary interpretation of nomadic structures, reminiscent of those built by the Nabateans, a Bedouin tribe that roamed the area over 2,000 years ago.

The design reflects the majestic natural desert setting, with views across the Arava Valley and Edom Mountains’ ridges.

Built using on-site natural materials, the six-treatment-room spa reflects the landscape and deep red palette of the mountains in its structure. 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, boutique, outdoor courtyard pergola and an alchemy bar, alongside a gym, wellness studio, nail bar and separate-sex changing facilities with hammams and saunas.

Nina Shapiro, Six Senses Shaharut wellness director is most excited about the spa’s unique locally-inspired signature treatments, incorporating jojoba oil and camel milk cream infused with CBD oil.

“The CBD camel milk formula is especially intriguing because the milk creates a moisturising product which is rich with proteins and vitamins, to keep the skin healthy and supple,” she says.

Spa guests are offered massages, facials, wraps, scrubs and rituals, supplied by Biologique Recherche and local product house Lavido. Six Senses has also worked with Lemi to source equipment for the spa and collaborated with Fashionizer Spa for uniforms.

The resort complements the wellness offering with sunrise yoga, stargazing, hikes and desert camel treks along the ancient Incense Route used by traders until the second century AD.