Northern Israel's Hot Springs Offer Winter Escape
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Northern Israel's hot springs provide a unique winter attraction, contrasting cool air with warm waters. Three sites were featured: the wild Bental Reservoir in the Golan, the family-friendly Hamat Tiberias National Park with regulated pools, and the resort-style Hamat Gader, a historic spa destination. These locations offer diverse experiences, from natural immersion to full spa amenities, encouraging people to go out despite the cold.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Northern Israel's hot springs offer a unique winter experience with warm waters and cool air.
- Bental Reservoir in the Golan Heights provides a wild, natural hot spring experience.
- Hamat Tiberias National Park features 17 thermo-mineral springs feeding three regulated wading pools.
- Hamat Gader in the southern Golan Heights is a historic resort with deep pools and spa facilities.
- Admission to Hamat Tiberias ranges from 7 to 16 shekels, with discounts for children and seniors.
As temperatures drop across Israel, northern regions offer a unique winter experience with natural hot springs. A recent report highlighted three distinct locations providing a contrast between cool air and warm waters.
The first stop was the Bental Reservoir in the northern Golan Heights, a wild natural site with no spa amenities. Water from a 1.5-kilometer deep well emerges at nearly 50 degrees Celsius, flowing into the reservoir at around 40 degrees, while the outside air is a chilly 16 degrees or less. Locals advise bringing a warm robe and coffee for exiting the water, noting that unlike regulated spas, the water temperature and accessibility can vary daily.
Descending to the Sea of Galilee, the Hamat Tiberias National Park features 17 thermo-mineral springs. According to Yonatan Even from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, these springs, originating from a depth of about two kilometers, feed three wading pools with temperatures of 30, 35, and 40 degrees Celsius. The site is family-friendly, allows dogs, and includes lawns and changing rooms, with admission fees ranging from 7 to 16 shekels.
The journey concludes at Hamat Gader in the southern Golan Heights, utilizing a natural geothermal system with five springs. CEO Yossi Musanjad stated that the site has been a resort and spa destination since Roman times. Unlike the wading pools elsewhere, Hamat Gader offers deep swimming pools, spa facilities, food stalls, a hotel, and even a crocodile farm, providing a full resort experience.