Page 15 - Discover Israel Magazine - UK edition 2019
P. 15
Cycling around the Hula Lake Park.
Insert: Birdwatching at the Hula Nature
Reserve. Photos: Itamar Grinberg
security organisation of the early 1900s, well as family bikes with up to seven seats,
established to safeguard Jewish settlements. available for hire.
The movement transitioned into the Hashomer
– now the Israel Defense Force (IDF). Visitors Where to sleep
can explore a series of rooms showcasing
artefacts depicting the development of the IDF There are plenty of accommodation options
and its settlement in Israel. within the Yiftah region, not far from Yesha
Fort, including guest houses, zimmers (cabins)
Further along the trail, experience the or hosting at Kibbutz Yiftah. For those who
adrenaline rush of Manara Cliff, home to prefer to round off the trip with an authentic
Israel’s longest cable car which runs from the experience, tents can be pitched at camping
city of Kiryat Shmona to the Naftali region. sites along the route.
Cable cars have three terminals, each offering
panoramic views across the Hula Valley, the If a night of pampering sounds more appealing,
Gollan Heights and beyond. Thrill seekers book a room at the Gallion Hotel located at the
can opt to paraglide, zip line, rappel or speed entrance to Agamon Hula nature park. The
down the cliff in sliding carts. stylish accommodation presents chic rooms
with views of the Hula Valley, an outdoor pool,
South of the route is Yesha Fort (Metzudat fine dining options and a spa. A spectacular
Koach), a former police fortress built by observation hot air balloon is an exclusive
the British Mandate in the 1930s. Currently attraction of the hotel – a unique opportunity
used by the Israel Border Police, the site is for 360-degree views across the valley and
home to the Metzudat Koach Memorial, in mountains beyond.
honour of the 28 elite Palmach soldiers who
died in 1948 during three separate attacks Further south, near Nabi Yesha Forest, is the
to capture the fort. A visitor’s centre was Naftali Estate, an expansive wooden house in
inaugurated alongside the Reut Musuem, Ramot Naftali Moshav. Rustic rooms feature
which poignantly documents the heroic battle modern amenities, and guests can enjoy a
of the Palmach fighters. buffet breakfast, outdoor swimming pool and
tours of local wineries.
To round off the trail, take a detour to Agamon
Hula – a paradise for bird lovers with over Useful information
400 species of birds to be discovered.
Visitors can immerse within nature on a safari With any hiking trip, preparation is key. Allow
wagon tour, presenting a front row view of ample time to plan and research your chosen
birds and animals in nature, or meander trail before departing and keep a map of the
through the water and orchids before resting route with you at all times.
at the cafeteria. The park also has designated
cycling routes for different levels of rider, with Trail angels are stationed throughout the
mountain bikes for adults and children, as country – a generous group of people who
open their doors to hikers at no cost. Choose
to stay within a private home, on a kibbutz
or set up camp on the lawn. Rest rooms,
internet (and sometimes food) is provided.
Manara Clif view. Photo: Shutterstock Optimum months to walk the trail are between
February and October, when warmer climates
and a reduced chance of the rain make for a
more enjoyable experience.
What to pack
• A large Thule bag
• Walking boots
• Hiking sandals
• Compass (or use the app on your phone)
• Map of the trail
• Sunscreen
• A hat & sunglasses
• A water pack tank
• Torch
• Portable charging or power bank
• Toiletries
• Tent and sleeping bag (if camping)
Useful websites:
www.natureisrael.org
www.shvilist.com (English version available)
www.theintexperience.com
www.israeltrail.net
D I S C O V E R I S R A E L 15
