Western Galilee Revives Tourism with Local Art, Food, and Outdoor Experiences This Summer
The Western Galilee region is striving to restore its tourism sector this summer by offering visitors a blend of nature, local art, culinary delights, and unique experiences. The annual "July Art" event, now in its seventh year, features open artist studios, collaborations between artists and local businesses such as restaurants, wineries, and breweries, aiming to reconnect tourists with the area despite regional security concerns and competition from international travel. Amnon Goffer, a veteran local tour guide and member of the Western Galilee Time Association, initiated the event inspired by artist collectives in Tel Aviv, emphasizing the importance of attracting visitors during the summer months when many Israelis travel abroad.
Culinary highlights include "Lechem Tena" in Kibbutz Gesher Haziv, known for its handmade pastries and acclaimed butter croissants, and "Forno La Gioia," a new pizzeria in the village of Psota offering authentic Italian pizzas made with imported ingredients. The pizzeria, opened four months ago by Bolus Houri and his nephew Alaa, operates in a 140-year-old renovated warehouse and serves specialty pizzas like pesto and truffle varieties at reasonable prices.
Agricultural tourism is represented by "Touch the Field," a farm near Abirim founded by Dor Pintel. The farm provides about 400 vegetable baskets weekly to northern Israel and offers interactive tours where visitors learn about organic farming, participate in planting and harvesting, and can prepare traditional flatbreads. Despite challenges during recent conflicts, the farm remained operational to supply local residents.
Additional attractions include "Malka Brewery" in Tefen, which is collaborating with glass artist Ariel Arvut to offer a July 17 workshop combining beer tasting and glassblowing, and guided Kawasaki TRX rzr jeep tours led by Wassim Shanan from Julis, featuring scenic routes through the Galilee including Mount Camel and views of Haifa Bay.
The Western Galilee invites visitors to experience its peaceful environment, local culture, and affordable offerings, encouraging Israelis to explore the region by car or train and support its recovery after a difficult period.
