Hidden Gem in the Golan: Botemya Reservoir Offers Serene Weekend Getaway
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
The Botemya Reservoir in the Golan Heights is highlighted as a secluded natural spot for weekend visits. Created after the Six-Day War to store "Eastern Waters" for agriculture, it is now considered the most beautiful of the region's reservoirs. The site offers scenic views and a rich bird habitat, though swimming is forbidden. Access involves a drive on Road 98 and a rough side road.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Botemya Reservoir in the Golan Heights is a secluded natural destination.
- It was established after the Six-Day War for agricultural water storage.
- The reservoir is known for its scenic views and bird habitats.
- Access is via Road 98, with a rough side road leading to the site.
- Swimming in the reservoir is prohibited.
The Botemya Reservoir, located in the heart of the Golan Heights and named after the abandoned Syrian village of Batmeh, is presented as a tranquil and lesser-known destination for weekend travelers. Established after the Six-Day War as part of the Golan's water storage development, the reservoir utilizes the "Eastern Waters" that flow in the Rokad stream basin. Unlike western-flowing streams that feed the Sea of Galilee, these eastern waters are impounded by dams to create reservoirs for local agriculture. Botemya Reservoir is considered the most picturesque among them, surrounded by lush greenery that supports a rich habitat for birds and waterfowl. The landscape offers scenic views of Tel Faris (an extinct volcano), wind turbines, and flourishing orchards and vineyards.
Access to the reservoir is via Road 98, about 10 kilometers north of Moshav Ramat Magshimim. Travelers should turn northeast at a junction marked by a jeep on a pole and proceed approximately 1.5 kilometers to a turnoff onto a side road. This unpaved, rough road requires slow driving for about 500 meters until an earthen mound and a gate are visible on the left. Parking is available if the gate is locked, followed by a short walk to the reservoir. If the gate is open, vehicles can reach the water's edge. Swimming in the reservoir is prohibited.