Crowning this rocky giant just north of Tiberias are religious ruins, hideout caves and a range of trails. Marvel at the views of the Sea of Galilee.
Composed of reddish-brown rock and steep cliffs, Mount Arbel is one of the region’s natural treasures. It has trails to a fortress within a cave and holds the vestiges of an old synagogue. Appreciate the spectacular views of Golan Heights and the valley of the Lower Galilee.
Climb to the upper plateau at sunrise or sunset to take advantage of the majestic lighting. Marvel at the otherworldly rocky landscape in front of you and spot the tip of Mount Hermon, which is Israel’s tallest summit. Sit on a rock and enjoy a picnic with your family, with the deep blue water of the Sea of Galilee providing a stunning backdrop. Pick up a brochure at the foot of the mountain to learn more about the region.
As part of Mount Arbel National Park and Nature Reserve, this natural gem is equipped with hiking trails, including the Israel National Trail and the Jesus Trail. Bring a hat and enough water for your walk up the winding paths. You’ll find numerous caves that were dug into the rock face as hideouts for Jews fighting the Romans and Greeks.
Marvel at the ruins of the ancient synagogue. It is thought to be the only synagogue in the world with an ark that does not face Jerusalem. This mountain has an important religious and military history. See the Horns of Hittin, where a momentous battle between the Crusaders and Saladin took place in the 12th century.
Look for bats, wolves and kestrels among the wildlife here. Explore the small villages that stand upon the mountain.
Access to the mountain is daily from morning until late afternoon. Pay a fee to enter and get discounts for kids.
Find Mount Arbel in the northern outskirts of Tiberias. Drive northwest from the city center for 5 miles (9 kilometers) to get here in about 15 minutes. While in the area, see some of the neighboring sights, including the Magdala place of pilgrimage, the Villa Melchette and the Yigal Allon Centre.
