Israel’s High-Altitude Ein Fizal Spring Offers Cool Refuge in Golan Heights
Ein Fizal is a small, rectangular concrete spring pool located at about 1,087 meters above sea level in the Golan Heights, near the road from Neve Ativ to Majdal Shams on Highway 989. Measuring three and a half meters long, one and a half meters wide, and about one meter deep, the spring’s water reaches waist height and remains very cold and clear year-round. The spring is fed by a natural source higher on the mountain, with water flowing down a rock face into the pool. Large eucalyptus trees provide shade, making it a pleasant spot even in summer.
The site features colorful Middle Eastern-style paintings on the pool’s exterior walls and a large relief of a leopard with Arabic inscriptions at the pool’s front. Ein Fizal is situated along the first section of the Golan Trail, which runs from Mount Hermon to Nimrod Fortress, making it accessible to hikers and visitors arriving by car via a dirt road marked with trail signs.
The article, written by Israel Shapira who visited with his friend Rabbi Oded Levi, highlights the unique experience of bathing in this high-altitude spring. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, as the article does not constitute a safety recommendation. Those traveling in the West Bank area must coordinate with the military due to security concerns, and it is recommended to hike in large groups with proper equipment. Visitors should also check weather conditions and follow all safety and legal instructions. For more information or to coordinate visits, contact the Israel Nature and Parks Authority’s information center.
