Multiculturalism in the Western Galilee

A little after Tarshiha and Ma’alot is Lake Monfort, a perfect combination of nature and attractions. The lake is surrounded by a walking path and it is recommended to reach the beautiful waterfalls avenue that was built with the support of JNF-USA. The place offers pedal boats, a ninja complex, a large trampoline complex, go-karting, and more. And of course, the Hadaral’e Restaurant, which is located on the shore of the lake.

A quaint village with winding cobbled lanes, historic stone homes, and picturesque plants and flowers in the many gardens. The historic village is perched on a hilltop at an elevation of 600 meters above sea level with gorgeous views and has a fascinating history and a population of Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Druze.

Walied, born in Fassuta, became interested in iron at the age of 40. After completing a short course in the field, he began to engage in iron sculpture and after a short period of time won first prize in an iron sculpture competition held in England. Since then, Walied has won several awards for his works, in England and Italy, where they are also displayed in museums. At Walied’s gallery in Fassuta, you can hear his story, see a variety of works, be impressed by the pieces he builds and watch his demonstration of iron work.

More On Walied Khoury

Edna and Eyal Hefer’s farm (Meshek Hefer) at Abirim is right in the middle of a natural grove with vast wild landscapes and beautiful roads leading to Kziv stream. On the farm there’s a goat pen, horses, camping space and two cabins, Rangers to ride, hammocks and a self-checkout refrigerator stocked with home-made goat cheese from Edna’s Cheeses dairy, made by Edna. Come visit the farm or schedule a horse ride, group workshop, Ranger ride or overnight stay – advance booking required.

As you drive through the Druze village of Hurfeish, you will see a variety of statues, one of which is of one of the prominent Druze leaders, Sultan al-Atrash, riding a horse. Along the main road you can find a sambusk and if you enter the old part of the village, look for the special project “Lace Embroiderers”, a project to preserve an artistic tradition and a source of income for local women.
Route Length: about 2.5 km
Difficulty Level: easy
Directions: Travel on Highway No. 89: Nahariya-Ma’alot-Tarshiha-Hurfeish-Sasa leading to Safed. The village has two entrances: from the west from Ma’alot and from the east from Sasa-Mount Meron. You can enter with your vehicle to the heart of the village.
Route Description: The route begins at the western central square in the village of Hurfeish. The walking tour of the place will begin in an alley leading north from the village square, into the village core ― touching the stone houses on both sides and being swallowed up among the ancient stone houses.

The highest mountain in the Galilee is surrounded by a trail that serves as its crown. An abundance of Mediterranean vegetation accompanies the trail and wonderful views open up to the landscape below. The trip becomes much more special if you reach Mount Meron on a good day (and there are quite a few of those), with its top above the clouds.
Length of the Trail: about 1.5 km
Difficulty Level: easy
Description of the Trail: A circular trail suitable for the whole family. The trail surrounds the peak of Mount Meron, which is the highest peak in the country, except for Mount Hermon. The trail allows for views of the landscape in all directions. Along the trail there are balconies where it is convenient to enjoy the wide view of the Galilee Mountains.

More About the Mount Meron Peak Trail