Timna park

It’s a rare holiday resort where you can swim in the sea then be in the midst of the desert half an hour later but this is part of what makes Eilat special.

The easiest place to experience the rugged beauty of the vast Negev desert is Timna Park. Here you’ll be wowed by colourfully striped sandstone and the dramatic results of erosion, including the much-photographed Mushroom Rock and Solomon’s Pillars.

Timna also embraces important antiquities. This is the site of the world’s first copper mines (sometimes inaccurately dubbed King Solomon’s mines) and you can peer into thousands of tunnels hewn with simple tools plus see the remains of ancient smelting sites. Rock paintings throughout the park depict scenes of hunting and religion and you’ll clearly spot desert animals, chariots and Egyptian goddesses among the etchings.

For some chill-out time head to the park’s artificial lake for a picnic, restaurant meal or a spin on a pedalo.

You can drive your own 4X4 in Timna but to get the most from the experience take a guided tour. Mountain biking, abseiling and hiking are also possible.