The Golan Heights in the far north of Israel is often overlooked because it’s just that wee bit off the beaten track for many tourists. But if you have the time, this amazing part of the world has some truly wonderful sites and natural marvels that may just knock your socks off – and also have you wishing you could stay longer!
We’ve compiled a list of the TEN best things to do in the Golan Heights, the things you really should check out.
In no particular order…
Banias Waterfall
The Banias Waterfall is one of Israel’s true northern delights, and is a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially during the winter when it’s at its full flow. A definite must-add to your things to do in the Golan bucket list!
Fed by the melting snow of Israel’s tallest mountain, Mount Hermon, Israel’s best waterfall is also home to some great treks, with trails passing Roman and Crusader remains and yummy Druze pita pit-stops.
The Banias is also known as a Christian pilgrimage site, as Jesus is believed to have sat here with his disciples to ask them their thoughts on what the people saw in him and his teachings.
To get there, head east of Kibbutz Snir on Road 99, and you’ll hit the waterfall site. There is an entrance fee (around 30 shekels/15 shekels), which includes access to the whole Banias Nature Reserve.
Mount Bental
The stunning views from Mount Bental are what it’s all about. Plus there’s the historic side for those curious about the Arab-Israeli conflict and military battles.
Mount Bental is actually one of two craters of an extinct volcano and stands 1,171 meters above sea level, hence the amazing views (yes, right into Syria).
The old army bunkers are great for the kids to scamper around (some have been closed off recently), while if you get hungry, there’s the cute Kofi Anan Cafe to chill out in. Great for all the family, and one of the MUST-DO things to do in the Golan!
Nimrod Fortress
If medieval fortresses are your pleasure, then Nimrod Fortress is one not to miss.
Head to the far northern Golan Heights for this one (there’s also a special visitor’s ticket that also gives access to the Banias, see above), the fortress is actually located on the lower slopes of Mount Hermon.
After much restoration work, you can explore this medieval gem dating back to 1229. Great fun for all the family and a definite addition to any things to do in the Golan wishlist, though I think under 5’s and those a bit physically challenged might find it a bit tricky to navigate the many stairwells and rugged paths.
Mount Hermon
Hugely popular during the annual snow flurries that hit the Golan Heights, Mount Hermon is Israel’s tallest mountain and the only place you’ll be guaranteed (almost 100%!) of some snow each winter.
If you’re a snow freak this is a definite addition to your things to do in the Golan checklist; be aware that when the snow hits (typically in January-February), so do the traffic jams up to the Hermon, big time! But if you get there early enough, you can grab a slice of skiing or snowboarding action easily enough.
It might amaze you, but there are 28 miles of ski runs, including two Olympic standard runs! And if you’re not an extreme sporty type, just enjoy the amazing views, both in winter and summer.
Gamla National Park
The Gamla National Park is a must add to the things to do in the Golan bucket list, largely for its amazing history and architecture, plus amazing views and natural scenery.
Gamla is actually the location of an ancient Jewish city that some refer to as the Masada of the North, because of the similar fate that befell its citizens; when the Romans besieged and then took control of the city, the Gamla inhabitants committed mass suicide.
The ruins of Gamla are still accessible (up a steep path) or can be viewed from an observatory point, from which you can also see the 150 foot Gamla waterfall (also accessible by foot).
Golan Heights Winery
Israeli wine has come a long way in the last few years, and the Golan Heights Winery is one at the forefront of the wine scene in Israel (they were actually voted 2012 winners of the New World Winery award).
You can visit the winery’s visitor center for a great tour of the wine making process and get to taste some of their four main brands: Yarden, Gamla, Mount Hermon and Golan. There are actually a number of different tours available, including an amazing ATV drive through the vineyards.
El Rom Kibbutz
El Rom Kibbutz is the place to go to get yourself acquainted with the history and significance of the Golan.
El Rom was actually wiped out during a big tank battle during the Yom Kippur War in 1973, but was quickly re-established and has since become a site where visitors can watch a true film depicting this battle (called OZ 77), and the inspirational Israeli comeback over the Syrian forces. Also head across the street after watching the movie to take a look at the battlefield, known as the Valley of Tears.
Fruit Picking
Thanks to the Golan’s rich and fertile soil, the area is abundant with fruit orchards. And one of the most fun ways to experience the Golan Heights with the family is to go fruit picking! Expect to find apples, cherries and various berries throughout the year!
The main sites for fruit picking in the Golan include Odem and Ein Zivan, with cherry picking in the early summer proving one of the more popular options; we’ve done it and it’s great fun. Just make sure the little ones don’t scoff down too many!
Eat out at the Witch’s Cauldron and the Milkman
One of the most amazing places to eat out at in Israel is the Witch’s Cauldron restaurant in the far north. A definite must-add to the things to do in the Golan wishlist, especially if you’re hungry!
This restaurant has to be one of the most unique restaurants in Israel, and located at 1000 meters above sea level its cute setting in a wooden lodge, complete with tens of creepy yet charming witches and wizard puppets hanging from the ceiling, is a must try if you’re this far up north.
The Shouting Hill
The Facebook and Twitter of the Middle East, this site became something of a tourist site due to its location and fame for symbolizing the pain of innocent bystanders in the Middle East conflict…
Located at the foot of Mount Hermon, this hill once acted as the main means of communication between divided families as they shouted across the valley to each other…though as the Internet and mobile phones reach even these far northern parts of Israel, the need to shout greetings and messages has fast diminished, except for special occasions when families want to physically see each other.
Originally posted at igoogledisrael.com