I experienced Israel’s most luxurious glamping spot

Growing dates is indeed a major income source for Kalya, yet the kibbutz has always focused on hospitality. Since 1938, when Kalya's first location on the coast hosted global dignitaries, the kibbutz has remained dedicated to tourism. In its current location west of the original site, at the foot of the Cliffs of Hatzekim, the kibbutz has offered various lodging options since 1968, becoming a civilian site in 1974. Today, they run Kalya Holiday Village, Kalya Beach (which once drew thousands), and now Glamping -420, launched in November 2021.

Warm Dips All Day Long

"The glamping was opened by Itay, Kalya's business development manager, who sought a unique tourism venture," says Yarden Nativ, the current manager.

The site includes 24 spacious tents, divided into adult and family areas. Each tent features air conditioning, storage shelves, a mini-fridge, futons, a rug, and soft lighting. The mattresses are wide and comfortable, including those for kids, and the AC keeps the tents cool—even if not strictly needed in this season.

Outside, you can enjoy the stunning, fading Dead Sea view, along with seating areas facing the Moab mountains and Jordan. There’s always that tantalizing question: where exactly is the border? (Technically, the center of the sea). The public area has clean and spacious shared showers and restrooms stocked with quality Dead Sea soaps and even small hand towels.

The highlight here is two round heated pools for adults and a larger, shallower one in the family section, ideal for all ages. It’s easy to get in (the water is warm) but hard to leave (it’s chilly outside).

Something for Every Appetite

At the geodesic dome reception area, a rich breakfast awaits—likely the best we've had in a glamping setting. It includes fresh salads, shakshuka, omelets, hard and soft cheeses, cereals, dips, orange juice, fruit salad, croissants, and warm, fresh bread—just the right amount of everything for every taste.

The dome also offers free coffee throughout the day, not just at breakfast, and serves as a cozy convenience shop. Here, you can find essentials for your stay, from sunscreen and snacks to barbecue supplies, marshmallows, and even alcohol.

Guests also have access to a fully-equipped communal kitchen with refrigerators and cooking tools for your own meals, along with bonfire and campfire spots near the main area. Each tent comes with its own bundle of firewood, making it easy to set up a private campfire. For afternoon hunger, the beach bar offers junk food favorites like pizza, burgers, falafel, schnitzels, and draft beer. Need dinner? No need to drive to Almog Junction—you can order freshly made pizza from the reception between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Weekend guests can enjoy a Friday night Bedouin-style welcome, with Bedouin coffee, flatbread, labneh, and za'atar, or chocolate. "An experienced desert dweller roasts coffee beans and brews tea," says Yarden. "Meanwhile, his wife makes flatbreads on the saj." Yaron and Shira from the kibbutz add to the atmosphere with songs of Israel on guitar, enhanced by the scent of the campfire.

What to Do in the Area?

-420 offers access to Kalya Beach, where you can float in the Dead Sea with a lifeguard on duty. You can also book a jeep tour with Shemaya from Mountain Fox, exploring the Cliffs of Hatzekim and the marlstone rocks of the Judean Desert, with an easy climb up ladders in Wadi Og. In general, Wadi Og is a beautiful circular trail with ladders—ideal with or without a guide. Just be sure to check for flood risks. Jeep tours for up to eight people start at NIS 1,100 for two hours.

Swimming in Sinkholes

The most unique tour in the area is in the Dragot Cliffs with Shlomi Lobaton from Chevel Eretz. Shlomi, a colorful, humorous, and knowledgeable guide, has been running sinkhole tours for 15 years. Although he’s not a licensed guide, he is experienced in leading geological excursions, both locally and internationally, and holds insurance for these unique tours. "I’m here to create experiences," says Shlomi, and he certainly succeeds.

The sinkhole tour, which lasts about four hours, covers different sinkhole types, and allows you to swim in small lakes formed by fresh water springs. You might even find "salt diamonds" embedded in the ground at a spot Shlomi will show you. To finish, guests can enjoy coffee and flatbread with labneh and za'atar. Shlomi documents the tour and provides you with a link to photos and videos. The tour costs 280 shekels per person, with discounts for families.

A Boutique and Unique Experience

After the tour, guests can return to -420 to wash off the sulfur and salt before leaving refreshed and happy. Rates start at NIS 800 per night for a couple mid-week, and NIS 1,300 on weekends, with discounts for soldiers. It’s not cheap, but the experience is worth it. "People pay a lot, so we aim to exceed their expectations," says Yarden. "Whether it’s large mattresses, a good breakfast, firewood, service, or free coffee." The high-quality towels provided also contribute to the feeling of being well-cared for. "We strive to be a boutique and unique destination," Yarden adds.

Future plans for -420 include an additional lodging area by the beach with 12 tents, and a suite section with private dipping pools and showers.

Kalya’s hospitality dates back to 1938, and if they keep up this standard, maybe one day the Dead Sea really will come back to life.

The writer was a guest of Glamping -420.