THE GOLAN HEIGHTS
The Golan Heights is a region of dramatic volcanic landscapes, rich history, and strategic importance in Northern Israel. It is renowned for its fertile vineyards, scenic hiking trails, and stunning vistas overlooking the Sea of Galilee.
This plateau is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs alike. It offers a unique combination of ancient ruins, modern settlements, and a thriving agricultural scene, especially celebrated for its high-quality wine and fruit orchards.
Most Popular Attractions
Nature & Landscape Wonders:
Mount Hermon (Har Hermon): Israel’s highest mountain, offering skiing and snow activities in winter and hiking trails in summer.
Banias Nature Reserve (Nahal Hermon): A powerful waterfall and lush trails following the Hermon Stream, one of the main sources of the Jordan River.
Gamla Nature Reserve: Home to a dramatic canyon, a significant waterfall, and the ruins of the ancient Jewish city of Gamla.
Mount Bental (Har Bental): A dormant volcano offering panoramic views of the Golan, Syria, and the Hermon, with preserved military bunkers.
Meshushim Pool (Brechat HaMeshushim): A unique natural pool surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns in the Meshushim Stream Nature Reserve.
The Black Falls (HaMapal HaShachor): A beautiful waterfall in the Zavitan Stream Nature Reserve, accessible via scenic hiking paths.
Golan Trail (Shvil HaGolan): A long-distance hiking trail that traverses the entire length of the Golan Heights.
Lake Ram (Brechat Ram): A picturesque natural crater lake in the northern Golan, near the Druze villages.
Daliyyot Stream Park (Park Nahal Daliyyot): A beautiful area for light hiking and picnicking along the Daliyyot stream.
Odem Forest (Ya’ar Odem): A natural oak forest, especially beautiful in the autumn.
History & Archaeology:
Katzrin Ancient Village & Talmudic Park: The restored ruins of a Jewish village from the Talmudic period, with an accompanying museum and visitors center.
Um el Kanatir (Resh Lakish): The impressive remains of an ancient synagogue with a unique stone-carved Torah Ark and restored archways.
Hippos (Sussita) National Park: The ruins of a prominent Hellenistic/Roman Decapolis city perched on a hill overlooking the Sea of Galilee.
Mitzpe Gadot: A strategic viewpoint and memorial with military trenches and an observation deck detailing the area’s history.
Ruins of Deikal: The remains of a Roman/Byzantine settlement with an olive press and cisterns.
Gilgal Refaim (Rujm el-Hiri): A mysterious and massive ancient megalithic structure, often referred to as the “Stonehenge of the Levant.”
Culture, Food, & Agriculture:
Golan Heights Winery: A pioneer in the region’s successful wine industry, offering tours and tastings.
Boutique Wineries & Vineyards: Numerous smaller, high-quality wineries across the region (e.g., Pelter, Ortal).
The Druze Villages (e.g., Majdal Shams, Buq’ata): Experience the unique culture, hospitality, and cuisine of the Druze community, famous for their pita bread and jam.
Golan Brewery (Mivshelet HaGolan): A craft brewery in the town of Katzrin offering local beer tastings.
Bustan Bereshit (Bereshit Orchard): A popular spot for fruit picking, especially cherries and apples in season.
Museum of Golan Antiquities (Katzrin): Showcases archaeological finds from the Golan, including artifacts from the ancient villages.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Hexagon Pool (Breichat HaMeshushim): Trek down to this unique natural pool where the walls are made of perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns, a geological marvel.
Explore the Nimrod Fortress (Qal’at Namrud): Wander through the expansive ruins of the largest and most impressive medieval Ayyubid fortress in Israel, offering stunning views of the Hermon and the Hula Valley.
Go Rafting or Kayaking on the Jordan River: Enjoy a thrilling, seasonal trip on the upper Jordan River’s tributaries, offering a refreshing activity in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Tour a Local Winery and Vineyard: The high altitude and volcanic soil of the Golan create excellent conditions for winemaking. Visit renowned wineries like the Golan Heights Winery for a tasting experience.
Ski or Snowboard on Mount Hermon (in season): Visit Israel’s only ski resort on the slopes of Mount Hermon, offering snow sports in the winter and scenic cable car rides year-round.
Visit the Ancient City of Gamla: Explore the site of the Jewish city that resisted the Roman siege, featuring the ruins of a synagogue, fortifications, and an ancient oil press, located near a spectacular vulture nesting site.
Go ATV or Jeep Off-Roading: Join a guided tour through the Golan’s rugged landscapes, old military bases, and fruit orchards for an adrenaline-filled exploration of the region.
Sample Local Craft Beer at a Brewery: Stop by a microbrewery like the Malka Brewery for a tasting of local, artisanal Israeli beers.
Pick Fruit in Season (Self-Picking): Many moshavim and kibbutzim offer seasonal fruit picking (cherries, apples, peaches) which is a popular, family-friendly activity.
Relax in the Hot Springs of Hamat Gader: Unwind at this therapeutic hot spring complex, known for its mineral-rich thermal waters and nearby Roman-era bath ruins.
Discover Waterfalls and Natural Springs: Hike to stunning spots like the Saar Falls (seasonal), Ayit Falls, or the hidden springs of Ein Gesher/Ein Pik, especially during the spring bloom.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential: Unlike most major cities in Israel, public transport within the Golan Heights is limited and infrequent. A rental car is highly recommended for flexibility to explore the remote trails, nature reserves, and scattered wineries and viewpoints.
Public Transport: The main bus lines (Egged) connect major towns like Katzrin and Mas’ade to central and northern cities like Tiberias, Kiryat Shmona, and Jerusalem, but local travel requires planning and time.
Taxis: Taxis are available in the central towns but are generally expensive for traveling between sites.
Navigation: While roads are generally well-maintained, GPS/navigation is crucial, as many small, unmarked roads lead to beautiful trails and hidden gems. Download maps in advance, as cellular coverage can be spotty in certain valleys or near the border.
Border/Security Zones: Pay attention to signs indicating minefields (often marked by red triangles and fencing) and closed military zones. Never cross marked fences or stray from clear paths in these areas.
Geopolitical Context: The Golan Heights is a fascinating blend of history and culture. Be mindful that the region is historically disputed. You will see evidence of past military conflicts (bunkers, old Syrian positions). The area is home to Jewish settlements, Druze villages (especially Majdal Shams), and Circassian communities.
Druze Hospitality: The Druze villages are renowned for their hospitality, delicious cuisine, and unique cultural traditions. Stop at one of the roadside restaurants for a taste of authentic Druze pita (often baked on a saj and served with labane and za’atar) or stuffed grape leaves.
Seasonal Extremes: Be prepared for significant weather variation. Summers (June-September) are hot and dry, making early morning hikes advisable. Winters (December-February) can be cold, with occasional snow on the higher elevations like Mount Hermon. Spring (March-May) is the best time for lush greenery and flowing waterfalls.
High-Quality Produce: The volcanic soil and cooler climate make the Golan a prime agricultural area. Look for roadside stands selling local Golan apples, cherries, olive oil, and wine. Purchasing directly from the farmers is a rewarding experience.
The “Sound of Silence”: A famous viewpoint along the border offers a unique, reflective experience. While the border area is generally safe for tourists, the sounds of ongoing military training can sometimes be heard.
Hidden Gems:
- Oz 77 Site: A well-preserved former Israeli military outpost from the Yom Kippur War that offers insight into the region’s history, located near the town of El Rom.
- Katzrin Ancient Village and Talmudic Park: The ruins of a large Jewish village from the Talmudic period, featuring an ancient synagogue and reconstructed homes, often used for live-action history demonstrations.
- The “Bikta shel Moti” (Moti’s Cabin): A hidden gem for a coffee or light meal, often tucked away in an orchard or overlooking a scenic spot.
- The Valley of Tears (Emek HaBacha): A major battle site from the 1973 Yom Kippur War. While a sobering historical location, the views across the valley are stunning.
Top Restaurants
Habokrim Restaurant (Chavat Habokrim) [$25-$45] – A premier kosher chophouse in Merom Golan known for its quality meat, sourced from locally raised beef, and smoked in-house, offering a “Wild West” yet traditional Israeli/Golan experience.
Zigel [$20-$40] – A long-standing kosher steakhouse in the artistic village of Aniam, popular for its grilled meats and a menu that features local Golan products and beverages in a charming setting.
Chavat Hajilabun [$25-$45] – Named after the nearby river, this great steakhouse offers a variety of grilled meats, including a unique Poykeh dish—lamb and root vegetables cooked in an iron cast cauldron over an open fire.
Rak Chummus [$10-$20] – A delicious, no-frills kosher hummus bar in Katzrin that is popular with locals and travelers alike for its fresh, high-quality hummus and simple Middle Eastern staples.
Lebanese Rin Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in Mas’ada, this restaurant offers the vibrant and authentic tastes of Lebanese cuisine, providing a different traditional flavor profile for the region.
Tishrin Restaurant [$20-$35] – Combining traditional Arab food, such as excellent hummus, with contemporary dishes, this spot is known for its blend of local and global flavors.
Druze Kitchen (Various Stands) [$10-$20] – Found in the Druze villages of the Northern Golan (like Majdal Shams or Mas’ada), these are excellent spots for trying fresh Druze Pita with labaneh (yogurt cheese) and za’atar, offering a quick, authentic local meal.
Abu Zaid [$15-$25] – Located on the main street of Majdal Shams, this is the place to go for fantastic, large portions of knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry) and other traditional pastries.
Gilis [$35-$55] – Operating as a high-quality kosher butcher shop most of the week in Moshav Nov, it converts into one of the country’s best steakhouses on Thursday nights, serving incredibly fresh, locally-raised, and custom-cut meats.
Altos [$15-$30] – A kosher meat restaurant in Katzrin offering a bit of everything, including grilled meats and beef sandwiches, known for its reasonable prices and casual atmosphere.
Dag Al Dan [$30-$50] – While technically just outside the Golan in the Northern Galil, it’s a famous fish restaurant situated on a fish farm at the confluence of the Hasbani and Dan Rivers, specializing in river trout and fresh fish.
Moshbutz [$35-$60] – A bar-restaurant in Moshav Ramot offering a true farm-to-table experience with a creative menu focused on smoked meats, stews, and modern twists on regional dishes, with stunning views of the Sea of Galilee.
Golan Brewery [$20-$40] – Located in Katzrin, this brewery and restaurant blends craft beer with a culinary experience, offering a diverse menu that often features creative dishes designed to pair well with their local brews.
Hapisga [$30-$50] – A relatively new kosher grill restaurant in Bnei Yehudah led by a talented chef, specializing in open-flame cooking using local fruitwood to infuse grilled meats and creative dishes like Arais (seasoned ground beef grilled in pita).
The Witch’s Cauldron and The Milkman (Kadirat HaMachshefa ver HaHalvan) [$30-$50] – A very unique and quirky restaurant in the farming village of Nimrod, specializing in steaming, savory casserole dishes (kadirat) with huge portions in an atmosphere decorated with witch and wizard dolls.
Why? Restaurant Cafe [$20-$40] – Located in Majdal Shams, this cafe and restaurant is praised for its authentic flavors, good food, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mattarello [$15-$30] – A bakery and café in Kibbutz Ein Zivan, founded by a former photographer, offering special challahs (like one stuffed with mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes), yeast cakes, and excellent pastries and coffee.
Boreas [$30-$50] – A chef-driven restaurant (often seasonal or pop-up) that focuses heavily on the incredible local produce of the Golan, creating inventive, modern Israeli cuisine in a relaxed setting (check for current operating status).
Merom Golan Dairy [$15-$30] – A stop known for its locally-produced cheese and dairy products, often featuring a small café or store where you can sample and purchase fresh items, sometimes with light cafe meals.
Pina Barosh [$30-$50] – Located in Rosh Pina (on the edge of the Golan), this bistro invites guests to experience the traditional Galilee and Golan flavors but presented with a modern, bistro touch and a breathtaking view of the Hula Valley.
Mattarello Gelateria [$10-$20] – An offshoot of the bakery, this spot (often seasonal or pop-up) uses local fruits and flavors to create artisanal, high-quality gelato and ice cream.
Rouge – The Restaurant at Pereh [$70-$120] – Located in the Pereh hotel, this restaurant offers a refined, seasonally-driven culinary experience, focusing on local, hand-picked ingredients from the hotel’s harvest and regional farmers, using both contemporary and traditional techniques.
Ikan [$60-$90] – A highly-regarded upscale restaurant (check for current location, often moves near the Sea of Galilee/Golan area) specializing in fresh fish and seafood, often with a creative, modern Mediterranean flair.
Lechem Erez – The Gallery [$50-$80] – While primarily a bakery, the restaurant/café section in the nearby Galilee region is known for its high-quality ingredients, excellent bread, and sophisticated, light cuisine, often serving as a fine dining lunch option.
Ramot Naftaly Farm [$60-$90] – Located just west of the Golan, this boutique winery and restaurant offers a high-end, chef-driven experience, specializing in dishes that perfectly complement their locally-produced wines, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Muscat (Mitzpe HaYamim) [$80-$130] – Although situated in Rosh Pina overlooking the Golan, this restaurant, perched atop a prestigious spa hotel, is a fine-dining gem exemplifying farm-to-table, with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and cheeses from their own farm.
Golan Wineries Tasting Rooms (Various) [$10-$30 (for tasting/light food)] – Many of the numerous local wineries (like Golan Heights Winery, Pelter, Château Golan, Assaf) offer platters of local cheeses, charcuterie, and light appetizers to pair with their wine tastings, providing a unique and diverse dining experience.
Druze Hospitality Home Meals [$30-$50] – Various families in Druze villages like Majdal Shams offer pre-booked, intimate dining experiences where guests are welcomed into the family home to feast on a large, authentic spread of traditional dishes (requires pre-arrangement and reservation).
Oshkandiya [$20-$40] – A popular coffee shop/café in Katzrin that offers a wide variety of baked goods, breakfast/brunch items, and light meals, perfect for a mid-day stop or casual, quality meal.
Ein Camonim [$20-$40] – A dairy farm and restaurant (just outside the main Golan area) known for its on-site goats, artisanal cheeses, and homemade goods, offering a unique cheese-focused meal experience.
Pizza Truck [$15-$25] – A popular, casual spot (location may vary, check local listings) offering high-quality, thin-crust pizza with a variety of toppings, including vegetarian and vegan options, often located in a scenic outdoor setting.
Arais Stands [$10-$20] – Scattered throughout the region, these small stands specialize in Arais, a traditional dish of seasoned ground beef cooked inside a pita bread, offering a savory, quick, and authentic local street food experience.
Chocolate Factories (Various) [$5-$15 (for cafe/hot chocolate)] – Several local chocolatiers and chocolate workshops (like De Karina or similar spots near Kibbutz Ein Zivan) often have small cafes where you can enjoy hot chocolate, homemade truffles, and decadent desserts.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
HaBait (The House) in Katzrin: Located in the central hub of Katzrin, this popular local bar is a classic pub featuring a wide selection of Israeli craft beers and spirits, and often hosts live music and special events.
The Beer Bazaar Golan (Hameyasdem) in Katzrin: Situated in the main industrial and commercial zone of Katzrin, this spot is part of a national chain but focuses on excellent local Israeli craft beers, including those from Golan breweries.
Golan Brew Pub (Mitzpeh Kinneret): While technically just outside the Golan in Mitzpeh Kinneret, it’s a key destination for the region’s craft beer enthusiasts. The pub offers a rustic setting and serves its own fresh brews alongside pub food.
Golan Heights Winery Visitor Center Bar (Katzrin): Located in the heart of the Katzrin industrial area, the bar offers a tasting experience of the winery’s acclaimed local wines, including their premium Yarden and Gamla labels, in a sophisticated, relaxed setting.
Pelter Winery Tasting Room (Ein Zivan): This renowned boutique winery, situated on Kibbutz Ein Zivan in the northern Golan, offers a modern tasting room where you can sample their diverse range of wines, spirits, and even local ciders and beers.
Bazelet HaGolan Brewery & Pub (Kibbutz Ein Zivan): Found adjacent to the Pelter Winery, this microbrewery and pub serves its own locally crafted beer on tap, perfect for a casual drink in the high-altitude air of the northern Golan.
Bar Katzrin (Katzrin): A simple, unpretentious local pub in the center of Katzrin, known for being a reliable spot for a late-night drink and a friendly chat with locals.
The Pub in G’shur (Moshav G’shur): Located in the southern Golan, this local moshav pub provides a warm, communal atmosphere, often holding casual gatherings and serving standard drinks.
Odem Winery Tasting Room (Moshav Odem): Nestled in the extreme northern Golan near Mount Hermon, this family-run winery offers tastings of their distinctive cool-climate wines in a quiet, forest-surrounded location.
Chaim’s Pub in Merom Golan (Kibbutz Merom Golan): A beloved pub on the central Kibbutz Merom Golan, offering a classic pub experience and serving as a central social spot for the surrounding community.
The Pub at the Ramot Resort (Moshav Ramot): Located within the resort near the Sea of Galilee overlook, this bar offers a beautiful view and a slightly more upscale resort feel for enjoying a cocktail or local wine.
1870 at the Scots Hotel (Tiberias): While outside the Golan proper, this sophisticated bar in nearby Tiberias is a known spot for high-quality cocktails and fine spirits, making it a good choice for those staying in the southern area.
Hameyasdem – Beer and Food (Katzrin): More of an all-day establishment, but its evening service makes it a solid choice for a casual drink paired with a meal, located in the Katzrin industrial zone.
Gesher’s Pub (Kibbutz Gesher): Another classic, community-oriented kibbutz pub in the southern Golan area known for its relaxed vibe and local clientele.
The Pub in Kela Alon (Kibbutz Kela Alon): A cozy, well-kept pub in this northern settlement, a key social gathering place for the residents.
HaBait (The House) Late Night (Katzrin): On weekend nights, this popular pub transforms into the closest thing to a club in the area, with DJs, dancing, and a lively, energetic atmosphere lasting into the early hours.
The Beer Bazaar Golan Late Night (Katzrin): Occasionally hosts DJ sets and late-night parties, especially during holiday periods, providing a high-energy dance atmosphere centered around its vast beer selection.
Golan Brew Pub Events (Mitzpeh Kinneret): Known for hosting weekend events with live bands and local DJs that draw a crowd from across the region, turning the brewery into a lively late-night spot.
1870 at the Scots Hotel – Late (Tiberias): This bar, just off the Golan, is known for its upscale evening vibe and sometimes features live music or a DJ on weekends, offering a more luxurious club-like atmosphere.
The Pub in G’shur – Parties (Moshav G’shur): This local pub often hosts large private parties and community events on weekends, which can turn the venue into a vibrant late-night dance spot.
Chaim’s Pub – Weekend Vibes (Kibbutz Merom Golan): The pub on this central kibbutz often features extended hours and a more festive atmosphere on Thursday and Friday nights.
Local Kibbutz/Moshav Culture Halls (Various Locations): Many settlements have a community hall that is rented out for large parties, sometimes open to the public for special events like New Year’s or major holiday raves.
Hameyasdem – Special Events (Katzrin): While primarily a bar/restaurant, this venue sometimes organizes special-themed party nights with a DJ.
Bazelet HaGolan Pub Late Hours (Kibbutz Ein Zivan): During the high tourist season (like summer and holidays), this venue extends its hours, providing a relaxed, music-focused environment later into the night.
Ramot Resort Event Space (Moshav Ramot): The resort occasionally uses its event spaces for themed parties or large-scale celebrations, which are the closest to a formal club event in the area.