Bucket list experience:
At 423m below sea level, the Dead Sea marks the Earth’s lowest elevation on land. The sea is a natural collection point for salts and minerals, with salinity up to ten times that of ocean water – so dense that swimmers float on its surface, while animals and plants struggle to flourish (hence the name).
The sea’s mineral-laden waters ease discomfort from arthritis, soothe fiery skin conditions like acne and eczema, heal allergies and boost circulation so helping with detoxing.
They’ve been revered for their magic healing properties for thousands of years – King Solomon, the Queen of Sheba, Cleopatra and King Herod all came to bathe here. No surprise then that the Dead Sea is home to some world-class spas today.
The Dead Sea is accessible from both Amman (90 minutes by car) and Aqaba (3 hours). Self-drive is easy, or you can book taxis for the whole day (agree a price first).
Many excellent hotels there sell day passes that include full use of hotel facilities as well as their Dead Sea beachfronts (and can arrange transfers). Alternatively, 2km from the hotel area, the Amman Tourist Beach Resort has pools and changing rooms for minimal fees.
The resorts are open all year round, seven days a week. The Amman Tourist Beach Resort is open 8am-midnight.
Spring and autumn are best – winter is a bit too cold to swim and sunbathe, and summer is ferociously hot. Early morning is best to avoid the crowds (and cameras).
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Sweimeh, Balqa Governorate, Jordan[0 miles]
A gargantuan luxury resort, in the style of a traditional Arab village, located on the shores of the Dead Sea. It’s home to one of the best spas in the Middle East, nine restaurants and great facilities for families.
Official star rating:
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
‘Natural’ spa holidays can be traced back thousands of years – Cleopatra was a regular visitor to the rejuvenating waters of the Dead Sea. Here’s our round-up of some of the best places to find the authentic ‘natural spa’ experience.
Multiple countries
Former travel editor of BBC Wildlife Magazine James Fair round-ups the earth’s greatest natural wonders, which will literally take your breath away.
