The Best Places to Visit in the Golan Heights
Published January 24, 2022.
In Israel, to the east of the Sea of Galilee and south of Mount Hermon lies the beautiful Golan Heights (Ramat HaGolan). The entirety of the heights measures around 718 square miles, divided in control between Syria and Israel. The geology of the Golan Heights is quite beautiful in itself. Its landscape consists of limestone and volcanic basalt, creating an impressive structure. There are many tourist attractions around the Golan Heights, so we've put together a useful guide of the best places to visit.
When to Visit the Golan Heights
The Golan Heights and its surroundings are best to visit in winter, as Israeli summers are sweltering and dry. The biggest benefit of the Golan Heights in winter is the possibility of snow on Mount Hermon, which makes for incredible skiing at the Mount Hermon Ski Resort.
Visiting Mount Hermon
Mount Hermon is famous for its ski resort, making it one of the main reasons for tourism in the Golan Heights. While there are activities during summer, such as tobogganing and mountain biking, the main attraction is skiing in winter. Mount Hermon is the tallest mountain in Israel at 9,232 feet tall. There is also the biblical significance of this mountain, as it signifies the northernmost boundary of the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 3:8, NKJV)
Nature Reserves in the Golan Heights
There are many nature reserves in and around the Golan Heights, each of which boasts a rich history, lush vegetation, or religious significance.
Hermon Steam Nature Reserve Here, you can find the largest waterfall in Israel - the Banias falls. The waterfall feeds into a beautiful stream and is surrounded by lush vegetation and unique birds, butterflies, and small animals.
Nimrod Fortress National Park The Nimrod Fortress holds great historical significance, as it was built as a barrier of entry of soldiers into Damascus and was likely where governors resided.
Historical Sites to Visit at the Golan Heights
Placing aside the physical allure of the region, there are many sites with great historical significance that make the Golan Heights a worthwhile spot to visit.
Caesarea Philippi Found at the base of Mount Hermon is the ancient city of Caesarea Philippi. In addition to being home to the sanctuary of Pan, Caesarea Phillippi is the place where Simon Peter proclaimed Jesus as the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16, NKJV).
Mount Bental This peak has phenomenal views and allows tourists to enjoy tea and coffee from the local café's while exploring old bunkers from the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
Wineries in the Golan Heights
Israel boasts some of the best wine in the world, having practiced the tradition for over 10 000 years. There are a variety of different wineries to try in the Golan Heights to satisfy even the most refined palettes.
Read: The Top Golan Heights Wineries to Taste the Best Israeli Wine for more info on the different wineries and what they do best.
Exploring the Golan Heights
Whether you are a tourist in Israel or have lived there your entire life, the Golan Heights is a fantastic place for sightseeing, enjoying good food and great wine, or simply visiting historical sites. There is something for everyone to enjoy in the beauty of the Golan Heights.
