The Galilee - top attractions
Located in the north of Israel, the Galilee is as popular with tourists as it is with locals who flock to the area to enjoy sea, sand and sun (well, technically, the sea of the Galilee is a lake…). In between working on your tan, there’s a seemingly never-ending treasure chest of historical and archeological wonders to ogle – no Instagram filter needed. Plus, the Galilee boasts a handful of incredible restaurants, vineyards and family-fun recreational activities like rafting down the Jordan River. We’ve rounded up the absolute best sites in the Galilee that you won't want to miss.
The best attractions in the Galilee
Hamat Gader
These waters reportedly speed up cell renewal and relieve urinary tract and digestive issues. A separate-ticket Spa Village contains a secluded area offering a range of treatments and hot and wet saunas. Four restaurants include kosher fish/meat and vegetarian options.
Kfar Blum - Jordan River
If you’re seeking a more adventurous water activity to pass the time, the Kfar Blum wet river experience and attraction centre in the Galilee has just the thing. From high-speed “kayaking” (rafting) down fast-flowing waters to lazing down the Hatzbani stream, Kfar Blum guarantees fun for the entire family. For an additional adrenaline rush, don’t miss their "Top-Rope" adventure park. The site also offers campground accommodations for a reasonable price.
Yam L’Yam
Taking between three to five days, the hike features stunning views in the Western and Upper Galilee regions of Israel. Walked by thousands of Israelis and tourists every year this trail is uniquely Israeli, giving visitors a chance to hike across an entire country in only a few days. The hike features a variety of scenery climbing to 1,200 meters and dropping to -400 meters, which creates a dramatic landscape and unique experience. Be sure to buy the “Israeli Hiking Map #2” from any local camping store for an extremely accurate map of the hike.
Achzivland
Eli Avivi is the self-declared ruler of Achzivland, an independent, albeit unrecognized, micro-nation just north of Nahariya. The eccentric former seaman first became smitten with this beautiful stretch of beach at the northern edge of Israel in 1952. Convinced this was the spot for him, he soon built himself a home there. In 1970, after a string of mishaps with the government (one of which involved a bulldozer), Avivi, a born renegade, declared his 2.5 acres of land and its populace, "Achzivland." Not surprisingly, the spot is known to draw a crowd of young, hippie-inclined internationals and Israelis, making late night parties, concerts and drum circles a part of Achzivland's cultural heritage.
Korazim National Park
A 25 acre park, Korazim is one of the most well preserved ancient cities dating back to the Second Temple era. Korazim is mentioned in the New Testament as one of the three cities cursed by Jesus (along with Bethsaida and Capernaum). Antiquities are a dime a dozen here, and the stones are stained black having been hewed from the volcanic basalt rock. Check out the basaltic fourth century synagogue and ancient ritual bath, or mikve.
Sea of Galilee hot springs and Hamat Tiberias national park
Known in the Talmud for their curative powers, these mineral-rich waters are now paired with modern accoutrements, including indoor/outdoor thermal pools, a lap pool (heated in winter), free beach access, gym, dry and wet sauna, mud wraps, massage and more.