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Home , Afula, Dafna, Dan River (Middle East), Gadot, Gamla nature reserve, HaGoshrim

Villa Rimona Zimmers’

FAMILY FRIENDLY VACATION GUIDE

TO NORTHERN (2012 Version)*

Welcome to Northern Israel! We have put together this guide to help you and your family make the most of your time while staying at lovely Villa Rimona in ’el. Just 15 minutes from and within easy driving distance to many fun and exciting things to do.

Whether you’ve come for a romantic anniversary or an outing with all your kids, the and Golan (and Villa Rimona) will be the perfect place to be. To find our more about our Kosher and Shomer Vacation Suites call us at 077-419-9001 or visit www.VillaRimona.com

If you have any corrections or addtional attractions, restaurants or ideas to add to this guide please contact us.

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Your Hosts, Shmuel and Chana Veffer Villa Rimona Zimmers

*as a first draft, please do not make any assumptions about kashrut, shmirat shabbat, , prices or times of these entries. We have not personally visited all of these places. This document is to help you with initial planning of your vacation only. If you discover any errors or have comments or suggestions, please send them to Chana at [email protected]

Table of Contents

Sports & Adventure

ATVs & Jeeps

ATV - Dishon Hatzbani Nature Tour Plus -

Biking

Hotel Aviv - Tiberias Ofen Harim Bike Rentals - Ramot

Boating & Waterskiing

Water Sport Center - Tiberias

Bowling

Afula Bowling -

Cable Car/Zip Line/Rappelling

Manara Cliff -

Fishing

Dagei Fishing Park - Dafna

Hiking

Swiss Forest - Poriyya

Horseback Riding

Vered HaGalil Guest Farm - Rosh Pina

Mini Golf

Mini-Golf - Kibbutz Farod

Paintball & Shooting Range

Gan Hair Shooting Range - Tiberias Paintball Ayelet Hashachar - Rosh Pina

Rafting/Kayaking

HaGoshrim Rafting - HaGoshrim Rafting - Rosh Pina Kayaking - Kfar Blum

Swimming

Yavniel Swimming Pool - Yavniel Tiberias Beaches (southern entrance) - Tiberias Mehadrin Beach & Miriam’s Well Beach (northern entrance) - Tiberias

Extreme Sports

Israel Extreme

Animals & Nature

Zoos

Gan Garoo - Bet She’an Ostrich Farm - Haon

Nature Reserves & Parks

Hamat Gader Park - Hula Nature Reserve -

How Do They Make That?

Marzipan

Marzipan Museum -

Milk & Cheese (a dairy farm)

Me-v-moo - Yavne’el

Olive Oil

Golan - Toister Ranch -

Silk (not milk) & Honey

Dvorat HaTavor Honey Bee & Silkworm Farm - Shadmot Devorah

Wine

Golan Heights Winery - Katzrin Tavor Winery - Kfar Tavor

History & Archaeological Sites

Alsheich - Ancient Cemetery - Safed Ancient Katzrin Park - Katzrin

Bet Alfa Synagogue National Park - Bet She’an Bet She’an - Bet She’an Hamat National Park - Tiberias Hatzor Archaeological Site & Museum - Hatzor Megiddo Archaeological Site - Megiddo Sephardic Ha’ari Synagogue - Safed Tzadik Tombs & Graves - Tiberias Zippori National Park -

Museums

Beit Ussishkin Nature Museum - Hula Valley (Kibbutz ) Donna Grazia’s House (Historical Museum) - Tiberias Golan Archaeological Museum - Katzrin Kfar Tavor Village Museum - Kfar Tavor Kinneret Museum - Tiberias Open Museum of Photography - Kiryat Shemona Pioneer Museum - Kibbutz Tractor Museum - Kfar Tavor

Culture

Bet Gabriel Gallery and Movie Theater - Tzemach

Restaurants

Decks - Tiberias Pagoda - Tiberias

Sports & Adventure

Some of the companies listed below offer a variety of adventures e.g. the companies listed under Kayaking and Rafting. So read the descriptions to see what else they offer. Any activities that involve water, assume there will most likely be people around not dressing modestly.

ATVs & Jeeps

ATV Dishon - Moshav Dishon

Guided ATV trips to the Dishon River, Naftali Mountains, and more, using Polaris Ranger vehicles. Each trip involves a short safety briefing and training. Phone 04-695-0441, 052-248-8014, 050-544-1773 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.tractoron.co.il (English - 15% discount Coupons available on website) Directions: Between Tzfat and Kiryat Shmona, off road 886. (1 hr) Located inside the Moshav

Hatzbani Nature Tour Plus - Kibbutz Hulata

They plan, organize, and carry out jeep tours for individuals or groups that last from 2 hours to an entire day. They also provide English-guided nature tours, birdwatching tours, guided hikes, bicycle riding, and rafting & kayaking in the Jordan River. You can also go absailing in certified sites such as: Keshet Cave, Dalton Cliff, Gefet Cliff, Kedumim Quarry, Luzit Cave and many more locations. Phone 077-205-0477, 052-424-8248, 054-777-0233 E-mail send a message from their website Website: www.hatzbani.co.il (English - 10% discount coupons available on website) Directions: Hwy 90 north to Tzomet Yesod Hamaala - on road 9119.(54 min)

Halom Olami - Migdal They plan, organize, and carry out jeep tours, horseback riding and watersports on the Kinneret. The company is Shomer Shabbat. Phone 050-537-7488, 050-579-0193 E-mail send a message from their website Website: www.halomolami.co.il (Hebrew website) Directions: In Migdal, just north of Tiberias.(29 min)

Biking

Hotel Aviv - Tiberias

Rental of bikes by the hour or day. Open daily. Phone 04-671-2272 or (tel. 04/672-0007 or 672-3510), Directions at the southern end of HaGalil Street (20 min) Fees Starting at NIS 40 for standard bikes and NIS 50 for mountain bikes for a full day, hourly and half-day rates also available.

Ofen Harim Bike Rentals - Ramot

Organized individual or group bike tours in the Golan, the Galil or Kinneret. Mountain bikes with or without gears. BMX bikes and baby seats. Also, bike rental by the day or hour. Phone 04-673-2418, 052-851-5058 (Boki Bar Tzur) Email [email protected] Website hebrew only with 10% discount coupon Directions in Moshav Ramot - on east side of Kinneret (32 min)

Boating & Waterskiing

Water Sports Kinneret- Tiberias Marina

Rental of boats, jet skis, waterskiing, banana boats, tubing and speed boats for up to 8 people. Also waterskiing lessons for children. Phone 052-807-7790, 052-269-2664 (Mica) Website hebrew only with 10% discount coupon Directions Tiberias Marina (below the Ceasar Hotel) (20 min)

Bowling

Afula Bowling - Speedball - Afula

Phone 04 642-4912 Directions Yehoshua Henkin 1, Afula (Near Afula Home Center) (29 min)

Cable Car/Zip Line/Rappelling

Manara Cliff - Kiryat Shmona

Manara Cliff has the longest cable car in the country. The other activities are ,linked to the stations of the cable car. The first station offers a trip in mini-jeeps along the Manara cliff, a bungee trampoline, and an extreme 1,200-meter-long mountain slide.The middle station offers rock climbing and rappelling, a 200-meter omega, and a climbing wall. At the upper station, there are two options to hike along the cliff with a local guide. Children up to 10 can enjoy creative activities. Phone 04 690-5830 E-mail [email protected] Website www.cliff.co.il Directions: On route number 90, just south of Kiryat Shmona (60 min) Fees General entrance NIS 59 includes cable car ride full Hebrew pricelist here

Fishing

Dagei Dafna Fishing Park - Dafna

The park is surrounded by trees and green pastures, with picnic tables & BBQs. You can fish in the Dan River and even cook your fish on the BBQ and have a real family picnic. A fantastic experience for the whole family. You can also camp here. Fishing equipment rental is available Phone 04- 694-1154, 052-3992070 E-mail [email protected] Website: http://www.dagei-dafna.co.il (15% discount coupon on website) Directions: near Kibbutz Dafna on Route 99 (1hr 12min) Opening hours: Sun-Thu 09:00 to 17:00, Fri 09:00 to 16:00 Fees: daily: 35 NIS (Jul-Aug 30 NIS)

Hiking

Swiss Forest - Poriyya Illit

The forest provides beautiful hiking opportunities and breathtaking views of Tiberias and the . Directions: 13 Minutes from Villa Rimona. Enter Porriya Illit for 768. The JNF paved a road from the Poriyya Youth Hostel northwards, leading the visitor into the heart of the forest and to the best vantage points. The road continues into "Schunat Dalet" of upper Tiberias

Horseback Riding

Vered HaGalil Guest Farm - Rosh Pina

You can join tours of from half-hour to full-day rides. Vered HaGalil also has pony rides for the kids (2 to 8 years) and riding lessons. Phone 04- 693-5785 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.veredhagalil.com Directions: located on road 90 between Tiberias and Rosh Pina (35 min) Fees: one-hour ride - 128 NIS, two-hour ride - 250 NIS, 10-min pony ride - 35 NIS

Mini Golf

Mini-Golf - Kibbutz Farod

This attraction, suitable for the entire family, offers 16 challenging mini-golf tracks, ranging in levels of difficulty. It also has paintball, mini-cars and a tent with games for toddlers. Phone 050-869-7802 - CALL in advance to arrange hours- open evenings in summer Email [email protected] Website: www.minigolf-farod.com (in Hebrew) Directions: located on road 866 north off hwy 85 (40 min) Fees: - NIS 29 mini-golf (unlimited time), Kiddie Games (up to 6 yrs), Painball NIS 1 per ball.

Paintball & Shooting Range

Gan Hair Shooting Range - Tiberias

Phone: 04-672-5680 Directions: Hagalil 4, Tiberias (20 min)

Paintball Ayelet Hashachar

For families, you need a minimum of 4 participants age 10+ to participate in the paintball course. There is also the “hunting course” mainly for children 3 to 10. There is also a shooting range for target and skeet shooting. They also have a maze set on 7 dunams. There are also mazes, bike tours, pedal carts and more. Phone 04- 693-2226 (book in advance) E-mail [email protected] Website www.pbl.co.il (English with coupons on site) Directions: located off road 90 between Rosh Pina and Kiryat Shmona on Kibbutz Ayelet Hashachar (48 min) Fees: starting at NIS 80 per person. Hours 8:30am - 6:00pm

Rafting/Kayaking

HaGoshrim Rafting - HaGoshrim

HaGoshrim offers rafting for the whole family on the Hazbani River. There is a family route that takes about 1 hour (ages 5 and up). There is also the challenging route (without an instructor) for 1 to 2 hours. They also offer a picnic area and children’s paddling pool. Free entry to Beit Ussishkin Museum, Sound and Light Show, ATV tours, Bike tours, mini-zoo, petting zoo. Combination pricing on website for mulit-activities and other attractions. Phone 077-271-7500, 04-681-6034 E-mail [email protected] Website: http://www.kayak.co.il (English with coupons) Directions: Kibbutz HaGoshrim, off route 90 (Tiberias - ) turn east on route 99, exit route 99 at HaGoshrim (just before the bridge) (1hr 14min) Fees Starting at NIS 85 (NIS 68 if ordering in advance on the website)

Jordan River Rafting - Rafting in the Jordan River to Meytzad Ateret. Long trip is 5-6 hours, short trip 2-3 hours. After some safety instructions you will be able to choose between a raft and kayak and then enter the Jordan River, passing B’not-Jacob bridge and other views. They also offer paintball, an Omega cable ride, bicycle trips and ATV and 4X4 trips. Phone 04-9007000, 054-774-4700 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.rafting.co.il/english Directions: Between Rosh Pina and Kiryat Shmonah 1.5 kms north of Gadot Junction. (48 min) Opening hours: Sun to Fri: 9:00 to 17:00 Fees: Discounts available by ordering on the website Boat for one person = 75 NIS, ATV/Ranger for one person = 90 NIS, Bicycle for one person = 70

NIS Paintball game (100 balls) for one person = 90 NIS

Kfar Blum Kayaking - Kfar Blum

Kfar Blum offers kayaking & rafting on the Hazbani River until it meets the Jordan. They have a variety of options (Regular route 10:30-16:30, Long Route 10:30 - 14:30, Family with Kids 5 and up 10:00-16:00). They also offer a climbing wall, ropes course (20 different rope bridges of different kinds, levels and heights) , bicycling, archery and a zip line. The duration and price vary depending on your activity. Kayaking starts from age five years and up. Phone 1-700-50-66-11 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.kayaks.co.il/content/kfar-blum-kayaks Directions: North on Rd.90. Turn right on Go'meh junction. Turn left on the next junction. Pass the first entry to Kfar Blum. Turn right in the traffic circle. You are now facing the Kfar Blum Kayaks' main site. (1 hr) Fees Starting at NIS 85 (NIS 65 on website)

Swimming

Yavne’el Swimming Pool - Yavne’el

Large public pool only a few minute walk from Villa Rimona. Limited separate swimming hours. Pay as you go. Phone 04-670-8106 Fee NIS 15 (mixed swim), NIS 10 (separate swim) Directions Just down the street from us (1 min, or 5min walk) Hours 2012 Season Schedule

Hof HaNifrad - Separate Beaches for Men and Women (southern entrance) - Tiberias

There is a separate swimming beach for men and one for women, at the southern entrance to Tiberias – next to the Rabbi Meir Baar Hanesse grave. The beaches have big lawns and toilet and shower facilities. There is a picnic area where families can eat together (and a snack kiosk). Phone: beach attendant's number is 050-723-4487 Directions On Hwy 90 just south of Tiberias opposite entrance to R. Meir Baal Haness (16 min) Opening hours: Sun to Thu: 9:00 to 17:00 Entrance Fee: Adults: NIS 25 , Children: NIS 12

Mehadrin Beach - Men Only (northern entrance) - Tiberias

Mehadrin beach is only for men, at the Northern entrance to the city. Open 24 hours a day. There is a common area for families to sit together between the men’s and women’s beach. Phone: beach attendant's number is 050-655-5291 Directions Gdud Habarak at Northern Entrance to Tiberias (beside Merkior Hotel) (20min) (16 min) Opening hours: Sun to Thu: 9:00 to 7:30 pm in summer (until sunset the rest of the year) Entrance Fee: Adults: NIS 20 , Groups: NIS 15 each

Miriam’s Well Beach - Women Only (northern entrance) - Tiberias Miriam’s well beach is only for women, next to Miriam’s tomb, also at the Northern entrance to the city. Showers, beach chairs, umbrellas, sailing, mehadrin snacks. There is a common area for families to sit together between the men’s and women’s beach.

Phone: beach attendant's number is 050-561-3328 Directions On Hwy 90 just south of Tiberias opposite entrance to R. Meir Baal Haness (16 min) Opening hours: Sun to Thu: 8:00 to 19:00 (Fri until 16:00) Entrance Fee: Adults: NIS 20 (NIS35 including camping on the beach)

Extreme Sports

Israel Extreme

Offer a variety of adventures: Hiking, Rappelling, Swimming, Kayaking, Biking, Jeep Tours & More! Exploration of spectacular locations throughout the Galilee and Golan. They pre-planned or customized adventures with fully insured guide. Full or half days of excitement for families and groups of any size, age or level. Phone: 052-647-8474 Email: Website: www.israelextreme.com/galilee/galilee.htm

Animals & Nature

Zoos

Gan Garoo - Bet She’an

This 4-acre park features a variety of animals and plants native to Australia, including kangaroos, koalas, cassowary and emu. There is a bird house where you can feed the birds It also has a souvenir store and a picnic area. Phone 04- 648-8060, 04-648-8952 Website Hebrew website with coupons (Here’s our english video blog post) Directions: At Kibbutz Nir David, off Route 669 (just outside of the main entrance to Gan Hashlosha, near the gas station) (40 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 16:00 , Fri 9:00 to 13:00 Entrance Fee Adults & Children (3+) - NIS 43

Ostrich Farm - Haon

The Haon Holiday Village has a large ostrich farm, situated under shady palm trees. You can tour the farm in the company of ostriches while learning about their unique lifestyle. In addition, you can watch a film following the ostriches' life cycle - from birth to maturity. There is also a unique creative workshop where you can take part in various ostrich-related activities.The site also includes a small petting zoo. A souvenir shop is also available. Phone 04 665-6555 E-mail @netvision.net.il Website: English website Directions: south on Highway 90. At Zemach continue on Highway 92 to Haon (18 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 14:30 ,Fri 9:00 to 13:00 Entrance Fee Adult - NIS 18, Child - NIS 16

Nature Reserves & Parks

Hamat Gader Park - Golan

A great attraction for kids of all ages. Hamat Gader is 40 acres of tropical parkland that includes gardens, lawns, Ancient Roman Baths, the thermo mineral pool area and one of the largest Crocodile farms in the Middle East with approximately 200 crocodiles of various species. It also has an impressive aviary, a small petting zoo and children’s playground. Phone 04- 665-9964 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.hamat-gader.com/eng Directions: At Zemach junction take Hwy 92 to Hwy 98 to Hamat Gader (21 min) Opening hours Oct to May Mon - Thu 7:00 to 23:00, Sun 7:00 to 17:00; Jun to Sep Sun to Thu 7:00 to 17:00 Entrance Fee NIS 78 includes aligator park, parrot show, ruins and water park/spa. (small children NIS 40, older children til 16 25% discount) After 5pm entrance fee is NIS 60.

Agamon Hula Nature Reserve - Hula Valley This is Israel’s first nature reserve. A wetland home to tens of thousands of aquatic birds. The reserve has paths, a ‘floating bridge’ over the swamp, and blinds from which to observe the birds. There are also many aquatic plants and water buffalo graze in certain areas. There is also a visitor centre with a souvenir and bookstore and a picnic area. Rent Bicycles, Golf Carts, or Pedal Buggies to tour the site. Phone 04- 693-7069, 04-681-7137 Website: www.agamon-hula.co.il (English website) (10% Discount coupon) Directions: Hwy 90 north of Rosh Pina turn east 3 km after the Yesud Hama‘ala junction Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:00 to 16:00 , Fri 8:00 to 15:00 Entrance Fee NIS 3 per person. Bike, Golfcart and Buggie rentals vary in price, starting from NIS 45 per person.. Here is the full price list.

Rosh HaNikra Grottoes

On the north-western corner of the country is the magical tourist site of Rosh Hanikra. The steepest cable car ride in the world is the main means by which you can approach the mysteries of the grottoes. The ride in each direction takes approximately two minutes. The cable car descends from a height of 70 meters above sea level at a steep angle of 60 degrees. Phone 073 271-0100 E-mail : [email protected] Website: www.rosh-hanikra.com Directions: Travel north on Road 70 to the north-western most point of Israel (1hr 14min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 18:00 (winter to 16:00 ,Fri 9:00 to 16:00 Entrance Fee Adults - NIS 43 , Child (3-18) - NIS 35, Tourist Train (3+)- NIS 20 NOTE: For parents with babies in wide baby-carriages, there could be difficulties in maneuvering around the grottoes. Therefore it is recommended to also bring a baby carrier.

Waterfall Road - Route 98

Drive along the scenic switchbacks on Route 98 to past the amazing Peace Vista Lookout see a number of waterfalls - once the rainy season starts . The first waterfall is Mapal Ayit, at the entrance to Aniam. Further down the road, is the turnoff to the Nature Reserve. If you are interested in paying an entrance fee, you can enter the park and hike to the Gamla Waterfall. At 51 meters, it is the highest waterfall in Israel. Or, to avoid entrance fees, continue down the road to Daliyot Junction. Turn right at the junction and right again at the Daliyot Picnic Area. From here, a red-marked path will lead you to two waterfalls: Daliyot and Bazelet. If you hike in the late afternoon, you will also meet the vultures of Gamla, descending for their night roost.

How Do They Make That?

Marzipan

Marzipan Museum - Kfar Tavor

Marzipan Museum which includes a film explaining the process of making marzipan, a display of sculpted marzipan, a marzipan and almond-juice tasting, and a shop. There is also an optional workshop for anyone from 3 to 93 where, with the help of instructors, you can make your own item to take home. Here’s our Villa Rimona Video Blog Post (See also Wine: Tavor Winery) Phone 04- 677-2111 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.shakedtavor.co.il (English) Directions: Kfar Tavor Junction of Hwy 65 and 767. The Museum is located in the Wine Farm. Follow the road signs.(13 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 17:00 (18:00 in summer), Fri 9:00 to 16:00 Entrance Fee Adults and Children - NIS 15 , Visit including workshop - NIS 30

Milk (a dairy farm)

Me-v-moo - Yavne’el

Me-v-moo is a robotic dairy farm located right in Yavne’el. - petting farm which includes rabbits, goats, chickens, horses - you make cheese and a tasting - tour of how milk is done (robotic milking machines) - feed the cows, including calves Here is our Villa Rimona Video Blog Post Phone: 04-670-8141, 052-469-6128 Email: [email protected] Website: www.me-v-moo.net (in hebrew) Directions: In the Yavne’el Industrial Area (3min - car: 11min walk) Tours Summer - Sun to Fri at 17:00, Rest of year - call for appointment Entrance Fee Adults and Children - NIS 27

Olive Oil

Golan Olive Oil Visitor Center - Katzrin

The Golan Olive Oil Mill and Visitor Center is a uniquely designed building They offer a guided tour which explains the process of olive oil production. reviewing the evolution of the process from ancient tools to our modern machine. The tour includes a short film. Complete your visit with a gourmet tasting of different flavours of extra virgin olive oil. During the olive-harvest season (which begins in October), visitors can watch as olive oil is produced. The entire process, from crushing to bottling, is open to the public, and eventually, tourists will even be able to participate in the harvest itself. Here is our Villa Rimona Video Blog Post. Phone 04- 685-0023 E-mail [email protected]

Website: www.golanoliveoil.com Directions: From road 9088 turn right on the industrial area access road at the far right of Hutzot ha- Golan, when facing the mall. Golan Olive Oil Mill is on the right before you reach the winery (43 min) Opening hours Sun-Thu 09:00 - 17:00, Fri: 09:00 - 15:30 Free Tours every hr. Call ahead, especially to request tours in English. Free parking.

Toister Ranch Olive Oil - Givat Yoav

The Toister Ranch is a family owned and operated enterprise founded in 1890 at the Ayn Zaitim village close to Safed. Now it is located on the Golan Heights in Givat Yoav. They provide a tour that follows the path of the olives from tree to oil. Phone 04- 676-3403, 052-3261767 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.toister-oil.com (English) Directions: In Moshav Givat Yoav on Rd 789 off HWY 98 Ramat HaGolan (34 min) Opening hours : Open Daily (not Shabbat) Entrance Fee : Free, Reserve in advance

Silk (not milk) & Honey

Dvorat HaTavor Honey Bee & Silkworm Farm - Shadmot Devorah

Dvorat HaTavor Honey Bee and Silkworm Farm offers a tour (approximately 1 ½ hrs) that explains how honey and silk are made. There are also arts & crafts activities for children (including making a beeswax candle) and a petting farm. There is a shop and picnic area. Here’s our Villa Rimona Video Blog with our Granddaughters Phone 04- 676- 9598, 050-563-7645 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.dvorat-hatavor.co.il (English) Directions: In Moshav Shadmot Devora, on Route 767, near Route 65. (12 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 - 15:00 by prior arrangement only, Fri 9:00 to 13:00 Entrance Fee Adult 22 or Child (3+) - NIS 45 (includes arts and crafts activities)

Wine

Golan Heights Winery - Katzrin A worldwide award winning winery which uses high end technology along with traditional wine making secrets and methods. Tours are by reservation only and it is best to call a few days in advance. The tour includes an introductory movie, a visit to the oak barrel cellar, a viewing of the bottling line (dependent on production schedules) and a wine tasting. Non-Hebrew speakers should mention that they are interested in an English tour Phone 04- 696-8420 (or 435 to book a tour) E-mail [email protected] Website: www.golanwines.co.il (English) Directions: In the Katzrin Industrial Area. (43 Min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:30 to 17:00, Fri 8:30 to 13:30 Entrance Fee Guided Tour: Adult: NIS 17 Child (6+): NIS 12

Tavor Winery - Kfar Tavor Tavor Winery is located in an agricultural settlement founded by Baron de Rothchild over 100 years ago. The Winery was established in 1997 and is a producer of high quality wines. They have a visitor’s centre which demonstrates the whole process of making wine. (See also Marzipan). Guided tours can be pre-arranged for groups. NOTE: From Jul to Sep (inclusive) you may enjoy the family wine harvest – which includes:meeting at the Winery and traveling to the vineyard (with pruning shears and baskets), harvesting grapes, filtering the grape juice and bottling it in personal bottles. Later, take a tour of the Winery, see a film, and taste the grape juice and some olive oil. The family wine harvest takes place each day between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. This is an activity that is paid for and should be coordinated in advance so as to assure yourself a place. Phone 04- 676-0444 e-Mail [email protected] Website: http://www.taborwinery.com (English) Directions: In Kfar Tavor at junction of Hwy 65 and 767. Follow the road signs.(13 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 17:00, Fri 9:00 to 16:00 Entrance Fee Guided Tour: Adult: NIS 19 Child: NIS 9

History & Archaeological Sites

Ancient Cemetery - Safed

For over 2,000 years, the western slope of Safed has served as the cemetery of the city’s Jewish community. The number of graves in the cemetery is unknown. Buried in the cemetery are the famous rabbis, Yitzhak Luria – Ha’ari, Shlomo Alkabetz, Moshe Cordovero, Yosef Caro, Moshe Mitrani – the Mabit, Moshe Alsheikh, and others. Burial in the ancient cemetery was halted in the 1960s and a new cemetery was opened at the foot of the slope. At the edge of the cemetery there is a wide plaza with a tree growing in its center. The tree is bedecked with scarves and plastic bags. Under the tree is the grave of Rabbi Pinhas Ben Ya’ir. Pilgrims customarily circle the grave seven times while praying.

Ancient Katzrin Park - Katzrin

It features a reconstructed village and magnificent synagogue from the days of the . Includes a reconstructed house furnished with domestic artifacts of the period. A film projected on six screens. Here’s our Villa RImona Video Blog Post Phone 04- 696-2412 park, 04-6964664 museum Website: parkqatzrin.org.il (Hebrew) Directions: Hwy 87 to Route 9088 to Katzrin (48 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:00 to 17:00 ,Fri 8:00 to 15:00 Entrance Fee

Bet Alfa Synagogue National Park - Bet She’an

The Bet Alfa synagogue, located in the Bet She’an Valley, was founded at the end of the fifth century CE. The synagogue consists of a courtyard, corridor, rectangular main hall with the spectacular mosaic floor, second-storey balcony and another room. The colorful mosaic in the main hall is divided into three panels. They depict the Ark of the Covenant, the zodiac and the offering of Isaac. An audiovisual presentation highlights daily life in the ancient village and the making of the mosaic. Phone 04- 653-2004 Website: www.parks.org.il (English) Directions: At Kibbutz Heftsiba, off road 996 between HaShita junction and Bet She’an (40 min) Opening hours Apr–Sep 8:00 - 17:00 (winter to 16:00) Entrance Fee Adult - NIS 21, Child - NIS 9, Israeli Senior - 50% discount

Bet She’an National Park - Bet She’an

One of the greatest archeological sites in the world. After the founding of the State of Israel, Bet She’an was reestablished and began to grow. The ruins, which are the pride of the city, have undergone major restoration and reconstruction, allowing special events and performances to take place in the ancient streets and theater.

The biblical mound, rising 50 meters above its surroundings, has a spectacular view of the great city at its foot and of the Bet She'an Valley. Additional attractions include the magnificent 7,000- seat Roman theater, the amphitheater where gladiators once fought, the Byzantine bathhouse, and the main, colonnaded Paladius Street. A vehicle is available to take visitors around the perimeter, stopping at the main sites.

. Phone 04- 658-7189 Website: www.parks.org.il (English) Directions: Follow the signs to the national park within the city of Bet She’an (33 min) Opening hours Apr to Sep Sun - Thu 8:00 to 17:00 (winter to 16:00) , Fri 8:00 to 16:00 Entrance Fee Adult - NIS 38, Child - NIS 23, Israeli Senior - 50% discount

Hamat National Park - Tiberias

This archaeological site includes a visitors centre and a museum exhibition. It includes a spectacular mosaic floor from a fourth century CE synagogue. There are also 17 therapeutic springs at the site . Phone 04- 653-2004 Website: www.parks.org.il/BuildaGate5/general2/data_card.php?Cat=~25~~440441034 Directions: Located at the southern exit of the city (14 min) Opening hours Apr–Sep 8:00 - 17:00 (winter to 16:00) Entrance Fee Adult - NIS 21, Child - NIS 9, Senior - 50% discount

Hatzor Archaeological Site & Museum - Hatzor

Hatzor is the most important archaeological site in northern Israel. It was a fortified city conquered from the Canaanites by Joshua and then used as a chariot base and food repository throughout the period of the Israelite Monarchy. The museum houses major finds excavated at the adjacent site of ancient Hatzor, now a national park. Phone 04-693-7290 Website: http://www.parks.org.il/ (English) Directions: 6 kms. north of Rosh Pina on route 90 (50 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:00 to 17:00 , Fri 8:00 to 15:00 Entrance Fee Adult - NIS 21, Child - NIS 15, Israel Senior - NIS 10.50

Megiddo Archaeological Site - Megiddo

Megiddo National Park, encompassing the ancient biblical mound of Megiddo, is located at the western entrance to the in the , on an important ancient and modern crossroad. Highlights at the site include the water system, the palace, “Solomon’s Gate” and the northern and southern lookouts. At the Megiddo Museum, visitors can see an audiovisual presentation and models of the site’s complex archaeology. Phone 04- 659-0316 Website: www.parks.org.il (English) Directions: Located between the Megiddo and Yokne‘am junctions (road no. 66) (40 min) Opening hours Apr - Sep Sun - Thu 8:00 to 17:00 (winter to 16:00), Fri 8:00 to 16:00 Entrance Fee Adult - NIS 27, Child - NIS 14, Israeli Senior - 50% discount

Tzadik Tombs & Graves - Tiberias

Rambam (Rabbi Moshe ben Maymon) Tomb Probably the most famous tomb in Israel. At the entrance you will find the tombs of Rabbi Yohanan

ben Zacai, and some Tanaim rabbis. Directions: Tiberias city center, next to Egged bus station

Rabbi Meir Baal Hanesse Tomb This magnificent tomb is a synagogue split in two (Ashkenazi and Spharadic) . It was built above the tomb, where a special festival (Hilula) is held every second Passover. Directions: At the southern part of Tiberias along the sea of Galilee coast Up the mountain, next to “Hamei Tverya” spa Opening Hours: During daylight hours

Rabbi Haim Abulafya Tomb Rabbi Haim Abulafya started the Jewish settlements in Tiberias of our times (during 1740). He used to be the Rabbi of Izmir, and was called to duty by the Galilee governor at the time. Directions: In the old Tiberias cemetery, approx. 2 km. after “Hamei Tverya” spa

Rabbi Akiva Tomb The greatest rabbi of his time, and the greatest Tanaai that ever lived. Believers traditionally visit his grave on the evening of Yom Kippur. Next to his tomb you will also find the tomb of the Ramhal – Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato Directions: West entrance to Tiberias, next to the police station.

Zippori National Park - Zippori

Zippori National Park, encompassing the ruins of the ancient Roman- and talmudic-era city of Zippori, is located in the rolling hills of Lower Galilee, west of Nazareth. The 4,500-seat Roman theater, which has been partially restored, affords a beautiful view of the Galilee mountains and the Bet Netofa Valley. Other main attractions include a talmudic-era residential quarter; the Crusader fortress; the restored third-century villa housing a magnificent mosaic The synagogue with its magnificent mosaic and the Nile Mosaic from the fifth century CE are also highlights, as is the 250- meter-long, first-century CE underground water system. Has a visitor centre, souvenir shop, picnic area Phone 04- 656-8272 Website: www.parks.org.il (English) Directions: hwy 77 to 7926 (40 min) Opening hours Apr - Sep Sun - Thu 8:00 to 17:00 (winter to 16:00) , Fri 8:00 to 16:00 Entrance Fee Adults - NIS 27, Child - NIS 14, Israeli Senior - 50% discount

Museums

Beit Ussishkin Nature Museum - Golan (Kibbutz Dan)

Covers the natural history of Hula Valley, , the Golan Heights and the Jordan River. Dioramas, audiovisual presentations are multilingual. A fascinating exhibition of the finds of 28 seasons of excavation at nearby Tel Dan. Phone 04 694-1704, 052-3689636 E-mail [email protected] Website: http://www.datinet.co.il (Hebrew) Hebrew website with 20% off coupon Directions: In Kibbutz Dan (1hr 13 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:00 to 16:00 , Fri - 8:00 to 15:00 Entrance Fee

Donna Grazia’s House (Historical Museum) - Tiberias

The house of Dona Gracia" is a "living museum". You may touch the exhibits and any object you like. The theme is based on the character of a Jewish leader of the 16th century Dona Gracia or her Jewish name - Hannah President, and stresses her actions for the Jewish people. Casa Dona Gracia ", is a unique cultural project highlighting the involvement and centrality of women in Jewish history. Phone 1-800-88-88-58 Website: www.donagracia.com (Hebrew) Directions: Rehov HaPrachim 3, Tiberias (20 min) Opening hours: call Entrance Fee Adults – NIS 40, Children, students – NIS 30, 35, Soldiers – NIS 35

Kfar Tavor Village Museum - Kfar Tavor

The Visitor’s Center is situated in the original schoolhouse in the center of the village of Kfar Tavor (1901). Presents the deeds of the pioneers of the first Aliya. Displays include the JCA and Baron de Rothchild foundations, Mount Tavor, village institutions, the hut, synagogue and many other displays. Farmers Yard – authentic farmers homes, a documentary film depicting the lives of the first settlers, multimedia displays, farm animals, galleries and more. Phone 04- 676-5844, 052-284-4084 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.kfar-tavor-museum.org.il (Hebrew) Directions: Near the main road, at nothern entrance to the village Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 14:00, Fri - Closed (or call to arrange) Entrance Fee

Kinneret Museum - Moshava Kinneret

Moshav Kinneret was founded in 1908. The museum which is situated in the building of the first hospital depicts the history of the first Jewish settlements in this region, a lot of photos, documents, other interesting exhibits. In the museum courtyard, visitors may view farming implements from the early 20th century. Phone 04-675-0142, 052-285-8222 E-mail Website: http://www.ekinneret.co.il (English)

Directions: On Hwy 767 at the Entrance to the Moshava (9min) Opening hours: Call to arrange hours in advance

Museum of Photography - Industrial Park

The only Israeli museum entirely devoted to photography, the Open Museum features exhibitions of works by prominent Israeli and international photographers. (check ahead to find out what the current exhibitions are). It also has a display of antique cameras. Tel Hai Industrial Park Phone 04-681-6702 Website: http://www.omuseums.org.il (English) Directions: Between Kiryat Shemona and Metula, to the right of the Tel-Hai College (1hr 9min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:00 to 16:00 (10:00 to 14:00 in summer) Fri closed. Entrance Fee Adults – NIS 18,Children, students– NIS 14, Seniors – NIS 9, Soldiers – free

Pioneer Museum - Kibbutz Yifat

The museum in Kibbutz Yifat tells the story of the "Hallotzim", the pioneers, that settled in the Yizrael Valley (Emek Yizrael) between the years 1911 and 1951. Photos, cloths, tools, buildings. Kibbutz Yifat Phone 04-654-8974 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.pioneers.co.il (English) Directions: On Road 73 in Kibbutz Yifat (39 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 8:30 to 17:00 , Fri - reservation required Entrance Fee Adult - 20 NIS, Child - 14 NIS

John Deere Tractor Museum - Kfar Tavor

The John Deere Museum introducing visitors to old and new agricultural machinery. Audiovisual presentation and photo exhibitions. Simulators. See and climb all over the tractors.. Traveling for about half an hour in a “Carriage Train” through the fields Phone 04- 677-2560 E-mail Website: www.jdland.co.il/english.htm Directions: In Kfar Tavor on HaMaayan Street (12 min) Opening hours Sun - Thu 9:00 to 17:00 Fri 9:00 to 15:00 Entrance Fee Adult NIS 44; 10% discount for seniors, soldiers and students.

Culture

Bet Gabriel - Tzemach

Bet Gabriel is a social and cultural centre on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. It contains a number of galleries & patios for art, photography and sculpture exhibitions. There are various theatres and amphitheatres that offer current feature movies, concerts and theatre and dance performances. Our Villa Rimona Video Tour Phone 04- 675-1175 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.betgabriel.co.il (English) Directions: Tzemach interchange, Kinneret Opening hours Sun - Thu 10:00 to 24:00

Restaurants

Decks - Tiberias

Well-known barbeque/grill meat restaurant on the shore of the lake. Phone 04- 679-2564 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.decks.co.il (Hebrew) Directions: Gdud Barak St. Northern Entrance to Tiberias (20 min) Hours Sun - Thu 12:00 - until last customer, Fri - until sunset., Motzei Shabbat til 23:30

Pagoda - Tiberias

Offers Chinese, Thai & Japanese food as well as standard menu items. Our Villa Rimona Video Tour Phone 04- 672-5513 Email [email protected] Website: http://www.decks.co.il (Pagoda is same owner as Decks) Directions: Gdud Barak St. Northern Entrance to Tiberias (20 min) Hours Sun - Thu 12:00 - until last customer, Fri - until sunset., Motzei Shabbat til 23:30

Festivals & Special Events

Klezmer Festival - Safed

Every summer dozens of Klezmer bands from Israel and from around the world descend upon Safed to participate in the city's much loved Klezmer Festival. Here’s our Villa Rimona Video Tour http://www.safed.co.il/klezmer-festival-safed.html

This year it’s August 20, 21, and 22, 2012 http://www.klezmerf.com/Related Links

The Galilee Guide www.galiltour.co.il

Israel Museums http://ilmuseums.com

Israel Nature and Parks Authority http://www.parks.org.il

E-Kinneret http://www.ekinneret.co.il/site/eng/eng.asp