EILAT

Snorkel or Dive in the Red Sea

Submerge into the dazzling crimson shades of saltwater that slither between the continents of Asia and Europe, making what is known as the Erythraean or Red Sea. Covering an area of almost 500-kilometres squared, this water body is known for its significantly warm and salty waters, yet still it manages to abound in healthy marine life and coral, making it one of the most beloved things to do in Eilat. Sign up to a session of snorkelling or diving whilst here, taking in the wonder of the water from the only city in Israel that fringes the Red Sea.

Take a Trek in the Red Canyon

The geologically astounding Red Canyon of Eilat offers travellers a hiking experience like no other, with the narrow crevices offering a prehistoric walk of immense beauty. Venturing through a gorge formed within a sandstone rock, the hike itself is less than 300-metres, though the unpredictable terrain and high ladders make it seem a whole lot longer. If you time this trip correctly you can witness the changing landscape of the sun dancing along the lines of colour within the canyon.

Take a Day Trip to Sinai or Petra

Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan can all be reached from Eilat in under an hour by car. Though tight borders and regional conflicts should be considered when hopping about in this region, the 2-hour sojourn to Jordan’s masterpiece ancient city of Petra is relatively straightforward and immensely rewarding. With some records saying there are some 11,000 years of history to be found here, it’s impossible to overstate the historical significance of this rock-carved city, easily accessible on a simple day trip, and is commonly mentioned in many an Eilat guide.

Visit the Underwater Observatory Marine Park

The electric coloured tropical fish and vibrant coral of the Red Sea can be admired without a snorkel or submergence in the ocean thanks to the Underwater Observatory Marine Park. The glass tunnels of the observatory journey some 12-metres underground off the coast of the Gulf of Eilat, allowing visitors to admire sea life in its natural habitat without cages or fences. If that’s not enough, you can even board the glass bottom boat of Coral 2000 to admire marine mammals further offshore.

Passover

Culture

A Jewish celebration of liberation honoured for a week every year, Passover is momentous part of the Israeli calendar. Expect outdoor markets, street performances and overflowing restaurants, or accept the exceptional hospitality of Judaism devotees by attending a family passover meal.

Rosh Hashanah

Culture

The Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashanah falls in the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which usually pairs with the Gregorian calendar month of September. The time is marked by reverence, family time, shared meal and sweet treats, followed by a 10-day holiday.

Purim

Culture

Though Purim is a holiday linked traditionally to Judaism, the festivities are now honoured extensively across the country of Israel. The ways to celebrate are numerous and varied, but usually include giving gifts to the poor, eating traditional foods like hamantaschen pastries, and attending masquerade parties.

Yom Kippur

Culture

A highly important day for people of Jewish faith, Yom Kippur is usually marked by 25 hours of prayer and fasting within a synagogue or the family home. Commonly referred to as the Day of Atonement, the city of Eilat can be something of a ghost town for this holy day, falling 10 days after Rosh Hashana.

Eilat Chamber Music Festival

Music

Both Israelis and international tourists flock to the city of Eilat for Chamber, the country’s biggest classical music festival. Held for 4-days each February, it has grown to be a highlight of the Eilat calendar of festivals.

City Museum

The City Museum gives visitors an intimate look at life in Eilat both today and in days gone by. Exhibitions showcase the fascinating fauna of the city’s coastline, the Red Sea Gulf, as well as the culture and foundations of this unique Israeli city.