There’s something in the air in Eilat that makes you feel like you’re already on vacation even before you arrive. Maybe it’s the sun that shines almost year-round, maybe it’s the sea that promises instant relaxation, or maybe it’s simply the knowledge that you’re about to leave your routine behind—even if just for a short weekend. But what truly shapes the experience is the place you choose to stay. Eilat offers countless hotels across different levels of luxury: Some provide only a bed and basic amenities, while others become an integral part of the vacation itself.
In recent years, Eilat has been evolving. Alongside the classic large hotels on the promenade, new spots are emerging that aim to offer something different—not just a crowded dining room and a pool, but a full experience. This time, when I was looking for a short escape from the routine, I wanted something different from what I knew of Eilat so far. Something that combined the relaxed beach vibe with the style and design I love in Tel Aviv.
That’s how I discovered Isla Brown 42, a new hotel from the Israel Canada chain and Brown Collection, which opened recently. The hotel is located on Hatzlacha Street, in the heart of the city but away from the promenade’s bustle—a location that manages to be both accessible and peaceful. When I arrived around noon, the Eilat sun worked its magic, and the air was warm and pleasant. I stepped inside, and the transition was immediate—from the street heat to a designed space with soothing colors, clean lines, and an inviting atmosphere.
A Room That Feels Like Home (But Better)
I entered a room with a balcony overlooking the pool. The design was simple, with soft colors—subtle, not loud, perfect for relaxation. A large bed with soft Egyptian cotton linens, a real workspace (not the tired desk of old hotels), and a bathroom with a spacious shower that feels therapeutic after a long day.
But what truly stole the show was the balcony. I opened the door and saw the pool winding below, with the blue sky as a backdrop. I sat there for a few minutes with a glass of wine, simply enjoying the peace. This is one of the best feelings on vacation—you haven’t done anything yet, but you can already feel your mind and body shifting into relaxation mode.
The Pool You Don’t Want to Leave
I went down to the pool as the sun began to soften. This is not just another hotel pool—it winds along the floor, creating distinct zones. Some areas are quieter, some are family-friendly, and the corner by the bar gives a Miami-resort vibe. I lounged on a chair, ordered a cocktail from the bar, and felt this was exactly where I was meant to be.
The pool is surrounded by tropical trees and plants that provide natural shade, with gentle background music—just the right volume. But the highlight is upstairs. In the evening, the rooftop of Isla Brown 42 is the place to be. The view is breathtaking: The Red Sea stretching into the infinite blue, the Red Mountains changing colors with the light, and the feeling that you’re on top of the world.
Dinner is served up there in the chef’s restaurant. This isn’t just a buffet—there are live chef stations with grilling and baking, a rich Mediterranean-inspired buffet, and real attention to quality. Each dish is beautifully presented, the flavors balanced, and you can feel the thought behind the experience. Beyond the food, there’s an atmosphere. There’s also a second rooftop pool—quieter, adults-only, perfect for those seeking more privacy.
A Morning of Indulgence
The next morning, after a rich breakfast on the rooftop (again with the stunning view), I headed to the spa. It’s small and intimate—three treatment rooms, dry and wet saunas, and a station with teas and fruits. I booked a combined treatment. The therapist was professional, knew exactly where the tension in my body was, and worked gently but effectively. Afterward, I spent a few minutes in the wet sauna, feeling my body fully relax.
By the end of this short stay, I realized this is not just a place to sleep. It’s a hotel designed to spend time in—you can stay all day without leaving the premises and not feel like you’re missing anything, with the pools, the special rooftop, the spa, and the overall atmosphere that radiates relaxation.
What I loved most was the combination of modern design and a casual, welcoming vibe. It’s not a hotel that makes you feel you must dress up all the time. It invites you to be yourself, relax, and enjoy.
Rates: Midweek for a couple—from 1,140 NIS per night, breakfast included. Weekend for a couple (minimum two nights)—from 3,150 NIS for two nights, breakfast included.
While You’re in Eilat—Step Outside the Hotel
This city is full of surprises, especially in the coming months.
Winter in Eilat is, in my opinion, the perfect time to enjoy and truly explore the southern city: The sun warms without burning, the sea is still pleasant, and the atmosphere is perfect for sightseeing. During this period, one of the city’s most successful initiatives returns: A variety of interesting and surprising experiences that allow visitors to discover sides of Eilat they may not have known—completely free.
The Eilat Tourism Corporation runs a program from November to March offering visitors dozens of opportunities for enrichment, activities, and creativity. You can join a culinary tour of the city and discover new restaurants and flavors, participate in a sunrise yoga class on the beach, try an escape room challenge, or attend a mobile photography workshop to upgrade your pictures. There are also special workshops such as fruit sushi making, Pilates at sunset, and African drumming sessions.
Those seeking a connection with nature can join walking tours—between the red stones of Amram Pillars, observation hikes spanning desert to sea, or a special early-morning tour. For those who want movement, there are functional fitness sessions, Zumba on the promenade, and even electric mountain biking or e-scooter rides.
The idea is to allow everyone visiting Eilat to experience the city beyond the pool and beach, meet the local community, learn something new, and enjoy high-quality activities—all free of charge. It’s an opportunity to build a rich, experience-filled vacation even on a limited budget. Full details, dates, and registration can be found on the Eilat Tourism Corporation website.
The writer was a guest at Isla Brown 42 Hotel, Eilat.