Golan Guests: Hiking and Local Wines 🥾🍷
Welcome to the Golan region, a lush gem in northern Israel. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, exceptional wines, and awe-inspiring hiking trails, this area has everything to charm nature lovers... and wine enthusiasts! 🍇 Whether you're an adventurer ready to tackle the hills or a bon vivant seeking a tasting at the foot of the mountains, you're in the right place!
Your 5-Day Hiking & Wine Itinerary
Ready to lace up your hiking boots (while keeping a corkscrew handy)? Here's a 5-day journey into the heart of the Golan, featuring epic hikes and wines worthy of the finest cellars.
Day 1: Katzrin, Between Hikes and Tastings 🍃🍷
City: Katzrin
Katzrin is often considered the "capital" of the Golan. Nestled in the heart of this mountainous region, it is both the ideal starting point for hikers and a renowned wine center. In short, a perfect city to alternate between trekking and toasting!
Activity 1: Hiking in Yehudiya National Park 🌲
As soon as you arrive in Katzrin, put on your hiking shoes and head to Yehudiya Park. One of the most spectacular hikes in the region will immerse you in wild landscapes and canyons worthy of a masterpiece. 💦 Be careful, some trails require crossing watercourses, making the adventure even more thrilling. If you enjoy trekking while refreshing yourself, it's a must.
- Why it's great: After all, vacations are nice, but adding a natural bath in the middle of the hike? It's better.
- Practical info: Paid entry (about 30 ILS), bring good shoes (obviously). Accessible by car from Katzrin, in 15 minutes.
Activity 2: Wine Tasting at Golan Heights Winery 🍇
Because we deserve a reward after the effort, right? Right after the hike, head to the Golan Heights Winery, one of Israel's most prestigious wineries. Here, you'll be offered a tasting of local wines, accompanied by a tour of the cellar. You can even get hands-on with workshops. 🍷
- Why it's great: After grimacing on the rocky slopes, what better than a little glass to release the tensions?
- Practical info: Open 6 days a week, reservation recommended. Tasting from 40 ILS.
Where to stay in Katzrin?
- Budget option: Katzrin Hostel (50-80€/night) – a nice hostel with private rooms and dormitories.
- Comfort option: Merom Golan Resort (100-150€/night) – cozy bungalows facing the mountains.
Where to eat?
- To taste local: "Meisha" (20-30€/person) – a small restaurant where you can eat traditional Golan dishes.
- For a sophisticated meal: "Gill Garden" (40-50€/person), perfect for a lovely evening and fusion cuisine.
Day 2: Katzrin Again, Between Culture and Trails 🛕🍂
Activity 1: Visit the Talmudic Village 🏺
Dive into history with a visit to the Talmudic Village of Katzrin. This archaeological site transports you to the Talmudic period (3rd to 6th century) with its reconstructed stone houses and ancient craft workshops. Stroll through this maze of ruins, then quench your thirst for knowledge with a guided tour at the museum.
- Why it's a must-see: Alternating between hiking, history, and archaeology, what else?
- Practical info: Entry at 30 ILS, impressive, educational, and not at all boring (close to the center of Katzrin).
Activity 2: Hike to Mount Bental 🌄
Put your sneakers back on and explore an iconic summit of the Golan! Mount Bental, accessible after a short climb, will offer you an incredible panoramic view of the Hermon Valley. If the weather is clear, you'll see Mount Hermon 👀. Promise, the descent is easier (especially after the previous day's tasting).
- Why it's worth it: Between military history and breathtaking panorama... One of our favorite hikes!
- Practical info: 15 minutes from Katzrin, the hike is moderate and lasts about 1h30. Bring water!
Where to stay: For this 2nd night in Katzrin, return to one of the two accommodations mentioned above.
Where to eat: You can alternate between our two recommendations from yesterday.
Day 3: Ein Zivan 🌱🍷
City: Ein Zivan
A short hop to the charming village of Ein Zivan, a short distance from Katzrin, to discover another part of the Golan. Away from the tourist hustle and bustle, Ein Zivan is a peaceful spot, known for its preserved nature and... its vineyards, of course!
Activity 1: Hike to Nahal Zavitan 🏞️
If you thought you'd seen it all, wait until you discover Nahal Zavitan! Hikers will be delighted with this spectacular trail dotted with waterfalls, caves, and natural pools where it's nice to swim in addition to your steps.
- Why this hike? Because walking under the sun to end up in a natural pool isn't the most revitalizing thing.
- Practical info: Not far from Ein Zivan, the hike is moderate and takes about 2 hours. Bring sunscreen, it hits hard here.
Activity 2: Wine Tasting at Pelter Winery 🍇
After a beautiful hike, a tasting break is a must at Pelter Winery, one of the largest high-tech wine producers in the Golan. Here, it's modern, it's fine, it's divine! You can visit the ultra-modern facilities before a tasting session of the best vintages.
- Why you go there: You will learn (sometimes) words that you still won't understand from start to finish... But the tastings will delight your taste buds.
- Practical info: 25 minutes from Katzrin. Book online, price 50 ILS/person.
Where to stay in Ein Zivan?
- Kibbutz Ein Zivan Guesthouse (65-85€/night): Authentic and bucolic.
- Pina Balev Lodge (100€/night): Luxury and refinement in the heart of nature.
Where to eat?
- Brasserie Pelter (30-40€/person): It's right next to the winery, and you eat excellently well.
- Pilsner (20€/person): A charming little bistro.
Day 4: Ein Zivan and Avital Waterfall 🌊
Activity 1: Hike to Avital Waterfall
Another jewel of the Golan: Avital Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. An easy hike (you'll have earned it!) for spectacular views and well-deserved freshness.
Activity 2: Visit the Avital Mountain Bunker
Exploration of an old military bunker – a fascinating dive into the history of the territory and the marked geopolitics of the Golan.
Day 5: Conclusion and Return to Katzrin
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