The Golan HeightsThe Golan Heights is a much talked about and visited area in the northern part of Israel. During my military service I spent almost a year in the Golan and learned to appreciate the awesome beauty of the place.The Golan borders with the Galilee and the Sea of Galilee in the west and south west. On the south east it borders with the kingdom of Jordan. On the eastern border you will find Syria and on the northern border is Lebanon. 
A view of the Golan. By Or Hiltch. The Golan is unique as far as its topography, as it is the only place in Israel where you will be able to ski. Amazing enough you can ski in Israel in Mount Hermon. I know - it is hard to imagine! The Golan is also the only place in the country in which you will find dormant volcanic activity. The evidence for the volcanic nature of the place is seen looking at the basalt black stones that are abundant there. 
Mount Hermon. Your best (and only...) ski option while in Israel. Picture by Or Hiltch. The history of the Golan is at least 5,000 years long. The Golan changed hands along the course of ancient history between many cultures including the Amorites, Israelites, Assyrians, Persians and even Alexander the Great. The Golan is mostly a rural area. If you are into outdoor activities and sports, nature, fascinating archeology you will love the Golan. It is perfect for hiking lovers, and a great escape from the city. The main Golan attractionsWhat should you see while in the Golan?Actually there are quite a lot of cool and interesting sites to visit:
The archeology park in Katzrin. 
Gamla reserve. By Jonas B. 
The Nimrod Fortress. By Chadica. 
The natural mineral hot springs at Hamat Gader. By Dlisbona. 
Gilgal Refaim - an ancient and mysterious stone monument. Picture taken from the website of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Return from The Golan Heights to the Home Page page |