The green hills of Galilee - the pastoral backdrop of dramatic Biblical encounters, religious experiences, Roman subjugation, Crusader dominance, Ottoman intrigue and modem pioneering settlements. A timeless area bounded by the Golan Heights and the Hermon range in the east, the hills of Lebanon in the north, the Sea of Galilee in the south and Mount Meron in the west. A cradle of spirituality, a breadbasket and provider for the surrounding area. In short, a microcosm of human endeavor and experience.

The green hills and lakes of the Galilee

The Galilee has played host to visitors from the earliest times, ever since the first caravan discovered that the route through Galilee was profitable and easily traveled. These early wandering merchants with their heavily laden camels criss-crossed the country, bearing goods from Damascus and Jerusalem to the cities beyond. Armies came in the wake of the traders, securing the roads for safe passage of their subjects to ensure continued trade and dominance of these important caravan routes.

Communities grew, based on farming and fishing. These factors also guaranteed uninterrupted settlement, in spite of nearly continuous warfare, earthquakes and other natural disasters. In the wake of the growing population, spiritual leaders flocked to Galilee making it an important spiritual center with far-reaching impact on believers of many faiths throughout the world.

The Galilee provides welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of life in the big cities. Apart from human visitors, its varied wildlife is further augmented during the fall, winter and spring months by migrating birds, attracting avid birdwatchers who come to enjoy the unique spectacle.

A wealth of migrating birds to fascinate birdwatchers from all over the world

Discover history in the museums and ancient holy sites; contemplate the nature of man through his art and spirituality. Revel in the natural beauty of the nature reserves. Take advantage of the area's abundant leisure activities - from climbing and rapelling to horseback riding, jeep tours, water sports, fishing, camping, ice-skating, walking and winter sports on Mount Hermon.

The Galilee is full of ancient cities yet to be excavated. Others, called “tels”, have yielded important discoveries.

The Galilee is yours to explore!