Our Story
"The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose." (Isaiah 35:1)
The people & The desert
The story of the Spice Route Inn is a story of love for the desert, of agriculture transforming into hospitality, and of an ancient path that still pulses beneath the surface.
The Beginning
Roots in the Arava
It all began in the year 2000, right here behind Moshav Tsofar. Debbie Rabins, a daughter of the Arava raised on local agriculture, dreamed of connecting people to the magic of the desert. At first, the site served as an intimate hub for donkey tours and outdoor activities, born from a desire to create a direct, unmediated encounter with nature. Over the years, listening to travelers seeking a place to rest their heads after a long day, the place evolved. What started as a local initiative blossomed into the Spice Route Inn, a sprawling complex now covering 7 acres (30 dunams), managed with a warm family atmosphere by a dedicated young team who continue the original vision of hospitality.
The Location
On the Ancient Spice Route
Our location is no coincidence. The Inn sits just 2km west of the main Arava road, directly on the historic path of the Incense Route. This is the very trail where Nabatean camel caravans marched thousands of years ago, carrying myrrh and frankincense from the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean ports. Just a stone's throw away (about 2km south) lies the ancient Nabatean city of Moa, which once served as a roadside inn for those same caravans. This proximity to a UNESCO World Heritage Site adds a layer of depth to your stay. We see ourselves as the modern successors of those ancient hosts—offering a station of rest, water, and shade in the heart of the desert, facing the majestic Edom Mountains to the east.
The Experience
The Spice Route Inn Today
Today, the Spice Route Inn is a precise blend of desert simplicity and modern comfort. We offer a diverse hospitality experience—from sleeping in tents and huts that restore your natural rhythm, to pampering private units.
Yet, the heart of the place remains true to tradition: a deep respect for the desert silence, a connection to nature, and a genuine love for people. Whether you are here for a workshop, a family vacation, or simply to disconnect—we are here to make you feel at home, in the middle of nowhere.