The Golan Heights are situated at the north-eastern end of the country. The mountains rise to an altitude varying between 400m/ 1312ft in the South and 1000m/ 3280ft in the central area; to the North they border Mount Hermon (2814m/ 9230ft) which is covered with snow during the winter time. It is in this area where the springs that feed the Jordan River and hence the Sea of Galilee issue from the ground.
As a result of the 1967 Six Day War, Israel gained control over the Golan Heights. Army bases, posts and bunkers are remaining witnesses of the bloodshed during the war between Israel and Syria. This strategic area is of great importance to Israel, on the one hand it insures a permanent water supply to the whole country and on the other hand, from this location, Israel can defend and protect its northern border.
In addition to pasturelands, a variety of products is cultivated in the area: grain, olives, apples and cherries. There are also vineyards; one of Israel's most renowned wineries is situated in this region. With its dense vegetation, springs, waterfalls and innumerous historical/ archeological ruins, the Golan Heights are one of the most beautiful areas in the country and offer adventures for all ages: jeep tours, horseback riding, hiking and of course the possibility of skiing in the winter!
The private tours include various sites and can be tailored to meet your interests and time schedule.
Banias Waterfall
The archeological remains of this impressive nature reserve testify that Banias was a sacred site to successive cults. Dating over two thousand years, it was first a Hellenistic and Roman ritual site. Philip, the son of Herod the Great, built his capital here and named it after him, Caesarea Philippi. According to the Gospel, this was the place where Jesus handed over the keys of the Church to Saint Peter. There are also ruins of a crusader's fort from the 13th century.
You can make beautiful hikes and walks along springs and the Banias stream so as to reach the largest waterfall in the country. The tour includes an overview of the ruins, an easy walk to the waterfall and/or an hour hike through dense vegetation and streams.
Tel Faher – Former Syrian Post
Tel Faher is a pre-1967 Syrian post that was part of a chain of posts along the Golan's Eastern slopes and cliffs. The area of Tel Faher is of great importance to Israel. On the one hand, it is a strategic point that controls the nearby Hula Valley and Sea of Galilee; on the other hand, it is where most of the water sources feeding the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee (Israel's most important water reserve) stem out the ground.
While visiting the post you will walk along trenches, bunkers and shooting posts, you will learn about the military strategies employed by the Syrian army and about the difficult battle of June 1967 in which Tel Faher was finally conquered by the Golani Brigade, as part of the Six Day War.
Tel Bental – Israeli Post
Tel Bental belongs to a chain of extinct volcanoes. Since it stands out from its surroundings, Tel Bental offers spectacular panoramic views towards Damascus. Located along the Syrian-Israeli border, Tel Bental is until today an Israeli defense line with Israeli army posts, bunkers and trenches. During the Yom Kippur War (October 1973), decisive battles took place in the nearby "Valley of the Tears". A small number of IDF forces managed to block the Syrian division offensive, obstructing them from crossing through the defense line and into the Hula Valley.
Katzrin – Talmudic village
This city of basalt stones dates back to the Talmudic Period in the 5th century and has been, as many other cities in the Golan, inhabited by Jews since the Hasmonian period (2nd century B.C.). The ruins of wineries and olive presses testify Katzrin's once flourishing commerce. The village's synagogue was built in a basilica pattern. Among the ruins there is restored public hall where various activities are organized in order to teach the local and international community about the Jewish Halacha Laws. In your visit you will grasp the spirit of the period and learn about the local way of life.
"Golan" Winery
Visit one of Israel's wineries that has become famous for its International reward. Learn about the wine making process and taste the different kinds of wine.
Gamla
Gamla national park and nature reserve is known as the Golan's Masada. It has magnificent views over the Sea of Galilee, the highest waterfall in Israel and important archeological sites.
At the end Second Temple Period (1stcentury BC to 1stc AD) Gamla used to be a Jewish city on a high rock plateau. According to the famous historian Joseph Flavius, the battle fought in Gamla between the Roman army and the Jewish inhabitants of the city was one of the most tragic battles of the Great Jewish Rebellion in 66 AD. In the face of an approaching enemy, the battle ended in a bitter mass suicide. Among the remains you will see the city walls and watch towers, olive presses, dwellings and the synagogue (considered to be one of the world's most ancient).
While walking through the park, you will have the opportunity to enjoy panoramic sceneries of cliffs and streams. This natural habitat hosts one of the largest vulture communities in the Golan Heights, here they nest and brood. You can observe them circling peacefully in the air.
There are several optional walks and hikes fitting all ages and time schedules.
Hamat Gader – Hot water springs
The hot sulfuric springs of Hamat Gader, to the East of the Sea of Galilee, have been known since the Roman times. Roman and Byzantine ruins of bathing houses are evidence to that. Today the hot water springs are still accessible and modern, luxurious resorts (where massages and other relaxation treatments are offered) have replaced the ancient bathing houses. In addition to the archeological ruins and resort, the visit to this area offers you the possibility to discover an alligator's ranch; the ideal trip for the whole family!