Kinneret Region Offers Coffee, Canoeing, and Culinary Delights
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
A tour of the Kinneret region highlighted its historical sites, cultural connections to Naomi Shemer, local produce like dates, and diverse culinary and recreational offerings including Asian cuisine and canoeing on the Jordan River.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Kinneret region offers historical sites and cultural tours.
- Naomi Shemer's life and work are central to the area's appeal.
- Local produce, especially dates, is a key attraction.
- Asian cuisine and outdoor activities like canoeing are available.
- Swimming in the Kinneret is currently prohibited due to amoeba.
A visit to the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) region, despite the summer heat and a temporary ban on swimming due to a mysterious amoeba, revealed a wealth of attractions. The area, rich in history and culture, offers a unique experience guided by locals known as 'Kinneretim,' who possess deep knowledge of its hidden spots and connection to the iconic Israeli poet Naomi Shemer.
The journey began at "Arthur Cafe," a coffee stand overlooking the Kinneret, situated in the historic "Kinneret Courtyard," a cradle of Israeli settlement. The cafe, named after Arthur Ruppin, serves light fare and offers seating adorned with Shemer's lyrics. Nearby, a staircase is said to be where the poet Rachel once descended to the lake with geese, adding a layer of legend to the landscape.
A guided tour of the Kinneret Group's hill followed, focusing on Naomi Shemer's life. The tour traced her footsteps, highlighting the places where she lived and drew inspiration for her songs. The tour included a visit to her childhood home, now a visitor center preserving her memory and musical legacy.
Shopping for dates at the "Tnuvat Kinneret" store provided another highlight. The visit coincided with the date harvest, showcasing the vibrant red color of the fruit before it ripens to yellow. The store also features historical artifacts from the kibbutz's early days and offers a variety of local produce, with a special emphasis on the region's renowned dates.
The culinary exploration continued at SANA, an Asian restaurant in Kibbutz Degania Bet, housed in a renovated industrial building. The menu offers a fusion of Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, and Indian cuisines, with dishes like vegetable spring rolls, sushi with truffles, and a spicy-sweet curry.
The day concluded with outdoor activities. A canoe trip at "Rob Roy" on the Jordan River offered a scenic experience, with live music sessions held on Friday afternoons. The day ended with a walk along the Jordan River's promenade, a beautiful trail winding through lush vegetation, providing a refreshing contrast to the day's heat and the inability to swim in the Kinneret.