Golan Heights is a wild and rugged region with plenty of opportunities for adventure. Hike and mountain bike in nature reserves, explore ancient cities and ski at a family-friendly resort. Recharge your batteries with a soak in mineral-rich thermal pools.
Things to do in Golan Heights
Hiking trails wind through Banias Nature Reserve and take you through lush green forests. The Banias Waterfall tumbles down a verdant cliff and is one of the largest and most beautiful in Israel. Get a bird’s eye view of the falls and feel the mist on your face from the observation deck. The park is also home to some fascinating archaeological sites, including an ancient Roman bridge and a Crusader city.
Soak your muscles in the mineral-rich hot springs at Hamat Gader. People have been bathing in the springs since Roman times. The sulphur-saturated water will leave your skin feeling silky soft and can also help treat joint pain, arthritis and rheumatism.
Winter snowfall transforms Mount Hermon into a family-friendly ski resort. Speed down the groomed runs and brush up on your skills with a lesson at the ski school. In spring and summer, the slopes are blanketed in wildflowers. Hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching are just some of the outdoor activities on offer.
Nimrod Fortress towers over Golan Heights and is one of the oldest and largest Crusader fortresses in Israel. It dates back to the 13th century and commands panoramic views over the surrounding valleys, plains and snow-capped mountains. Secret corridors and staircases weave through the stronghold and lead to towers, halls and the fortified keep.
Gamla Nature Reserve occupies a rocky outcrop and commands sweeping views over the Sea of Galilee. Explore the ruins of a 2,000-year-old Jewish city and look for enormous Griffon vultures nesting on the cliff sides. White-water rafting trips along the Jordan River will get your pulse racing.
Getting around Golan Heights
A rental car is the best way to tour Golan Heights and visit local sights and attractions at your own pace. Jeep tours and ATV adventures are a fun way to explore the region if you don’t want to drive. The district is a 2.5-hour drive from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.