Beat the Heat: Water Adventures in Northern Israel

As many of you make your way to the northern parts of Israel for a summer getaway, you might pass through or stay near Mahanayim Junction. This article is for you, offering some fantastic trip ideas in the area.

Horvat Yarda and Ein Yarda

Visit a beautifully restored inn with a fabulous view and a short trail leading to a shallow and pleasant spring. This area saw intense battles during Israel's War of Independence, and a memorial commemorates those who fell here.

Important note: The descent to and ascent from the spring are challenging and not suitable for strollers or those who have difficulty walking.

How to get there? Search for Horvat Yarda on Waze.

Meshmar Hayarden

A visit to a memorial site for the fighters who fell during battles in the War of Independence, in attempts to defend the settlement of Meshmar Hayarden, which was ultimately captured by Syrian forces. Although the settlement was reestablished, it was not done by the descendants of its original founders and settlers. While the residents were held captive in Syria, Kibbutz Gadot was established in the area.

What to see? A monument with the story of the battles and a memorial site.

How to get there? Search for Meshmar Hayarden Monument on Waze. Important note: Parking can be tricky here. Be cautious!

Ein Gilbon

A half-kilometer trail at the lower section of Nahal Gilbon leads to remnants of a shallow pool built during the Syrian control of the Golan for Syrian military officers. There's a small amount of shallow water in the pool.

The trail also passes by a water aqueduct, sometimes leading water from the stream to a defunct flour mill.

The walk involves a narrow trail through thorny bushes with a moderate incline.

How to get there? On Waze – search for Ein Gilbon. It's essential to consult a trail map or online map to find parking, which can be relatively challenging to locate.

Dardara-Ashmura Grove

A charming spot for picnics, featuring a stream where you can dip your feet. The site witnessed battles in the Independence War, and following the marked path leads you to a monument for the fallen.

How to get there? Search for Dardara Grove on Waze.

Dardara

Ein Tina

A trail in the Hula Valley runs alongside a stream leading to a waterfall "created" by pipes. It's enjoyable, wet, and definitely worth the trip.

Important to note: This trail isn't suitable for individuals who struggle with walking or for strollers. Don't forget a change of clothes. Due to expected crowds, it's best to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon.

How to get there? Search for Ein Tina on Waze.

Ein Dovsha

A short trail leads to a spring by Road 918.

There is a shallow stream (sufficient for young ones, less so for older kids), remnants of a former power station building whose roof you can climb for an incredible view.

How to get there? Search for Ein Dovsha on Waze.

Ein HaDayag

A very clear and shallow spring near Yesod HaMa'ala.

Suitable for families with young children seeking peace and a splash of water.

Major downside: Serious parking issues in the area. From the parking, it's about a 300-meter walk to the spring.

Ein HaDayag

Hula Nature Reserve and Agamon Hula

Two nearby sites on the remnants of the ancient Lake Hula, which was drained in the 1950s to clear land for agriculture. About 30 years ago, part of the area was re-flooded to prevent pollution runoff towards the Sea of Galilee.

Agamon Hula is a tourist site established around the re-flooded area, offering wildlife observation in their natural habitat through various means.

Bridge in Hula Reserve

Asher Nadivi is a certified tour guide. For questions and comments: editor.nelech@gmail.com