The Most Beautiful Roads of Israel: An Adventure Through Stunning Landscapes Over 7 Days

Introduction: An Unforgettable Road Trip Through Israel's Most Beautiful Roads

Israel, at the crossroads of history, is a land where every turn of the road reveals breathtaking panoramas, where arid landscapes meet lush mountains, and where modern cities stand alongside ancient sites. For those seeking scenic routes, Israel is full of stunning circuits. Whether you're heading towards the Dead Sea or winding through the mountainous landscapes of the north, each journey promises natural wonders.

Today, we invite you on a 7-day road trip through three magnificent regions: the lush north, the Mediterranean coast, and the breathtaking Negev desert. On beautiful roads, you will (re)discover Israel in complete freedom, with the wind traversing these contrasting and fascinating landscapes.

1. Itinerary for a 7-Day Stay

Day 1-2: Tiberias and Northern Galilee

Tiberias, located on the western shore of the magnificent Sea of Galilee (or Lake Tiberias), is a city steeped in history and spirituality. It is a sacred city for Judaism, but also an ideal starting point to explore the scenic roads of northern Israel.

Activity 1: Dive into History at Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes

Located a short distance from Tiberias, you will drive on the picturesque road along the lake to reach Capernaum, a fascinating archaeological site. The ancient village is known for being the place where Jesus lived and preached. Continue to the Mount of Beatitudes, on the heights of the lake, offering a breathtaking and magical view over the sparkling waters and surrounding hills. You will feel the tranquility of this sacred place where many pilgrims gather.

• Practical Tip: Prepare for a peaceful day with comfortable shoes. Entrance to the sites is 10-15 NIS.

Activity 2: Climbing Mount Arbel

For those who love breathtaking panoramas, climb (or walk) to the top of Mount Arbel, a mountain offering a spectacular view of the Jordan Valley, the Sea of Galilee, and the Golan Heights. It is a moderate but rewarding hike, especially at sunset. The trails wind through caves and the lush vegetation of northern Israel.

• Practical Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and start early to avoid the midday heat. The park entrance fee is around 20 NIS (about 5 €).

Where to Stay in Tiberias:

• Ron Beach Hotel (mid-range) – Magnificent view of the lake, affordable rooms. Around 150-180€ per night.
• Aviv Hotel (budget) – A little gem with a splendid view, about 80-100€ per night.

Where to Eat:

• Galei Gil – Specializes in fresh fish from the lake. Mid-range budget (dishes between 80 and 100 NIS).
• Decks Restaurant – A romantic setting with a view of the lake. Dishes around 150 NIS.

Day 3-4: Haifa and the Mediterranean Coast

Heading south along the Mediterranean coast, you will reach Haifa, Israel's third-largest city. A modern, vibrant, and multicultural city built around the slopes of Mount Carmel.

Activity 1: Visit the Baha'i Gardens

One of Israel's architectural and botanical wonders, the Baha'i Gardens, with their perfectly maintained terraces, offer a sweeping view of the Mediterranean Sea and the port city of Haifa. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these gardens are a tribute to the Baha'i culture and symbolize world peace.

• Practical Tip: The gardens are free, but it is advisable to book a guided tour in advance. Wear light clothing to walk around these enchanting places.

Activity 2: Rosh HaNikra Caves

A short distance from the city, on the northern border of Israel and Lebanon, you will discover the underwater caves of Rosh HaNikra. Created by the erosion of the Mediterranean Sea, these caves are a clear blue and offer a fascinating natural spectacle. Plan a cable car ride to access them from the cliffs.

• Practical Tip: Entrance (23 NIS adults). Bring a hat and avoid slippery sandals.

Where to Stay in Haifa:

• Dan Panorama Haifa (luxury) – Majestic panoramic view. Around 200€ per night.
• German Colony Guesthouse (budget) – Charming hotel in Haifa's German Colony. Around 50-70€ per night.

Where to Eat:

• Fattoush – Arab restaurant with a tree-lined courtyard. Mid-range budget, around 60-90 NIS per dish.
• Libira Brewpub – Local craft beers and lively atmosphere. Dishes around 70-100 NIS.

Day 5-7: The Negev and Mitzpe Ramon

The third leg of your road trip will take you south on Highway 40, crossing the vast desert landscapes of the Negev Desert. End with a flourish at the Mitzpe Ramon Crater, a unique geological wonder often compared to the Grand Canyon.

Activity 1: The Mitzpe Ramon Crater

This crater is one of Israel's most impressive geological formations, offering vast viewpoints from which you can watch sunsets over a lunar landscape. Take a moderate hike along the crater's edge or enjoy the many activities available (mountain biking, jeep tours, or camel rides).

• Practical Tip: It is advisable to leave early in the morning to enjoy the mild temperatures. Jeep tour rates start at 200 NIS per person.

Activity 2: Night Under the Stars in the Desert

In Mitzpe Ramon, you have the option to camp or even spend a night in a Bedouin tent. It's an opportunity to witness one of the purest starry skies in the Middle East. Specialists can guide you in astronomical observation.

• Practical Tip: Book in advance for Bedouin camps, especially during peak season. Bring warm clothes for the night.

Where to Stay in Mitzpe Ramon:

• InnSense Hotel (luxury) – Charming hotel with a pool. Around 180€ per night.
• Eco Desert Lodge (budget) – Ecotourism camp. Around 50€ per night.

Where to Eat:

• Bereshit Restaurant – Fine dining with a breathtaking view of the crater. High budget, around 150 NIS per dish.
• Hahavit – A restaurant in Mitzpe Ramon known for its grills. Mid-range budget: 80-100 NIS.

Preparing Your Trip

Documents:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the end of your stay.
• For most nationalities, Israel does not require a tourist visa for less than 90 days.

Medical Needs:

• Israel offers excellent medical care, but travel insurance is highly recommended. Keep up to date with your standard vaccine boosters.

Car:

Car rental is simple and affordable in Israel. Prefer well-known agencies like Hertz or Europcar. Plan around 300-500€ for a family car rental for 7 days.

2. How to Get There

a. Getting to Israel

The main airports for your arrival: The most convenient gateway to start your itinerary is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located about 20 km south of Tel Aviv and 40 km from Jerusalem. It is Israel's main airport, served by countless airlines worldwide.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights:

• Date Flexibility: If you can adjust your departure and return days, you are more likely to find good deals.
• Use Comparators: Sites like Skyscanner, Momondo, and Google Flights allow you to easily compare prices across different airlines.
• Book in Advance: For a trip to Israel, try to book your flight about 2 to 4 months in advance.
• Low-Cost Flights: Some airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air offer direct flights to Tel Aviv from several European cities.

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b. Getting to Tiberias from the Airport

From Ben Gurion Airport, you can easily reach Tiberias by renting a car. The journey takes about 2 hours, mainly on Highway 6, which runs along wooded and hilly landscapes before reaching the magical region of the Sea of Galilee.

• Car Rental: Agencies like Avis, Budget, and Europcar are located directly at the airport. The highway is well-marked, and driving in Israel is generally safe, although sometimes a bit fast on the highways.

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c. Getting from Tiberias to Haifa

To reach Haifa from Tiberias, it's a particularly scenic drive along route number 77. This approximately 1h30 journey allows you to leave the banks of the Sea of Galilee to descend towards the Mediterranean. You will pass several hills and verdant valleys typical of the north of the country, with splendid views of Arab villages and local kibbutzim.

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d. Getting from Haifa to Mitzpe Ramon

The journey from Haifa to Mitzpe Ramon is perhaps one of the most exotic of your entire road trip. You will transition from the Mediterranean greenery of Haifa to the arid atmosphere of the Negev Desert. About 2 hours and 30 minutes of travel await you via Highway 40, with a gradual transition to desert expanses dotted with small mountains.

3. Must-Sees of Your Road Trip

Here is a list of the top 10 experiences and must-see places that I highly recommend on this itinerary:

1. Capernaum: Relive the history and era of Jesus in this ancient village on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
2. Mount of Beatitudes: A sublime panorama with an incomparable spiritual ambiance above the lake.
3. Mount Arbel: Surprise yourself with a breathtaking hike offering stunning views of the region.
4. Baha'i Gardens in Haifa: Listed as a World Heritage Site, these terraced gardens are a true oasis of peace and beauty.
5. Rosh HaNikra Caves: Experience the magic of geological formations sculpted by the Mediterranean Sea.
6. The Mitzpe Ramon Crater: Walk atop this giant crater and contemplate the vastness of the desert.
7. Star Gazing in the Desert: At night, the Negev sky is a natural spectacle of twinkling stars like you've never seen.
8. Jeep Safari in the Desert: Explore the Negev Desert in adventure mode with a jeep excursion among arid lands and rock formations.
9. Swimming in the Sea of Galilee: Spend a relaxing moment swimming in the calm and pleasant waters of Lake Tiberias.
10. Wine Tasting in the Negev Region: Visit a winery in this arid region little known for its vineyards, but which will surprise you!

4. Preparing Your Trip

To make your stay as enjoyable as possible, here is some useful information:

Necessary Documents:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date.
• Visa: For visitors from most European and North American countries, no visa is required if you stay in Israel for less than 90 days.

Health and Insurance:

• Medical Insurance: Taking out good travel insurance is essential. Check that it covers medical and hospital care. Israel has excellent medical facilities, but costs can be high.
• Vaccines: No specific vaccines are required to enter Israel, although commonly suggested vaccines are always recommended (hepatitis A and B, tetanus...).
• Medications: If you take prescription medications, remember to have enough for the entire trip, along with a copy of your prescription.

What to Bring?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of what you will need for a road trip in Israel:

• Hiking Shoes: Some activities like Mount Arbel or the Ramon Crater require good footwear.
• Swimsuit: To enjoy the many places where you can swim (Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea...).
• Sunscreen and Hat: The sun can be very strong, especially in the Negev Desert.
• Light and Loose Clothing: Opt for breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm temperatures.
• Warm Clothes for the Desert: Even in the height of summer, nights in Mitzpe Ramon can be cool.
• Camera: To capture the incredible landscapes!

5. Book Your Trip Well in Advance!

Flights:

To book your flights at the best price:

• Best Times to Book: Ideally, aim for a 2 to 4 months lead time before your departure, with flexibility on your dates.
• Departure Times: Flights outside weekends and Israeli holidays tend to be cheaper. Consider departures early in the morning or late at night.

Camping/Hotels/Lodges in Israel:

To find accommodation in Israel, follow these tips:

• Plan Ahead: Especially for the summer period or during major religious holidays in Israel (Passover, Yom Kippur). These periods attract many tourists, and services can be fully booked several months in advance.
• Useful Sites: You can use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb to find accommodations throughout Israel.

Car Rental:

To explore Israel at your own pace, car rental is ideal and affordable. Moreover, Israel has a modern and well-marked road infrastructure, making it relatively easy and safe to drive.

• Main Transport: To compensate for long journeys, feel free to use the Waze app, originating from Israel, which will ensure you avoid traffic jams.
• Type of Vehicle: If you plan to venture into the desert, opt for a slightly more robust model, like an SUV or a 4x4.

Tip: Consider booking your car rental at the same time as your flight to get the best rates and availability.

Conclusion: Driving on Israel's Most Beautiful Roads, a Journey of Contrasts and Discoveries

This 7-day road trip through Israel is a unique road adventure. From the lush hills of the north to the vast desert expanses of the south, your days will be filled with breathtaking historical, cultural, and natural discoveries. Israel is a country of geographical contrasts — a diversity you can only appreciate by hitting the road. Fasten your seatbelt, live in the moment, and let yourself be surprised at every turn!

Get ready to explore unforgettable roads, share magical moments, and return home with memories full of wonder. So, book your trip today and set off on these sumptuous roads of the State of Israel.