Upper Galilee Reopens Museums and Outdoor Attractions After Northern Conflict
A summer trip to the Upper Galilee offers a serene and lush experience just two hours from central Israel, showcasing the region's rich history, nature, and culture. The area, especially along the road from Gom'a Junction to Lehavot Bashan, is covered in eucalyptus trees and reveals a blend of past and present, including key sites from Israel's early struggles.
The Reut Museum at the 28th Battalion Fortress recently reopened to the public after sustaining damage during northern hostilities. The museum commemorates the 28 fighters who fell in battles during Israel's War of Independence and features interactive 3D exhibits, historical displays on the 1936 border fortifications, and a memorial wall. Nearby is a mass grave and a scenic lookout over the Hula Valley.
In Kibbutz Bar'am, just 300 meters from the Lebanese border, the Bar-David Museum presents a unique collection of Judaica and Jewish art spanning from the mid-19th century to today. The museum includes permanent and rotating exhibitions, such as one on concrete military structures and a youth-focused exhibit. The collection highlights works by Jewish artists worldwide and those who contributed to Zionist cultural expression.
About a half-hour drive east, the Osishkin Museum in Kibbutz Dan offers natural history exhibits focused on the Hula Valley, the Jordan River sources, the Galilee, Golan Heights, and Mount Hermon. Established in the 1950s to preserve the region's natural heritage, the museum features dioramas and archaeological displays, including findings from Tel Dan.
Accommodation options include the Pastoral Kfar Blum Hotel, a 193-room resort known for its cultural themes and family-oriented summer programs. Nearby, the Ammi Promenade along the Jordan River provides an accessible walking trail. Kayaking season at Kfar Blum has also opened, symbolizing a return to normalcy after winter rains and recent conflicts.
Additionally, visitors can explore the calendula herb farm north of Mahanayim Junction, where they learn about natural healing and the plant's uses. The Upper Galilee Regional Council emphasizes the area's renewal, inviting visitors to experience its museums, nature, and peaceful ambiance after recent turmoil.
