Gamla: Vultures and the "Masada of the North"

A Jewish town on a rocky ridge above a canyon, a high waterfall and vultures gliding below your feet. What else do you need?

• RegionHermon & Golan
• Duration4 hours
• DifficultyModerate-hard
• Distance6 km
• Upcoming datesOn request, for groups and families
• Pricefrom ₪220

Gamla Reserve is one of the most dramatic places in the country. From the vulture lookout we watch griffon vultures nesting on the cliffs right below us, then hike to Gamla Falls, among the highest in Israel.

Then we descend to the ancient town, built on a narrow ridge between two ravines. In 67 CE Gamla fell to a Roman siege after a fierce battle, and among the ruins is one of the oldest synagogues in the world. Here the story and the landscape meet.

Route notes

Steep descent and climb to the ancient town. Hiking shoes, plenty of water; not stroller-friendly.