Hidden Syrian Officers' Pool in Golan Heights Offers Unique Summer Escape
In the Golan Heights, a lesser-known water spot called Ein Gilabon, also known as Ein Jalbina, conceals a historic Syrian officers' pool. Located near the lower part of the Gilabon Stream close to the Pekak Bridge, this perennial spring and its adjacent pool were built during Syrian control of the area and served Syrian army officers. The site is surrounded by remnants of old military structures now largely reclaimed by nature, offering a surreal glimpse into the region's past.
The Gilabon Stream, also called the Deborah Stream, is a prominent watercourse in central Golan, flowing toward the Hula Valley and featuring notable waterfalls such as the 41-meter-high Gilabon Waterfall, which empties into a basalt-surrounded pool near Kiryat Shmona. Visitors can reach the officers' pool via a relatively easy short trail starting at Pekak Bridge, passing through fruit orchards and basalt stone paths, and passing historical sites like an ancient water-powered flour mill.
The spring flows year-round, but the pool's condition varies due to structural damage and water extraction. Surrounded by trees and riparian vegetation, including thorny raspberry bushes, the pool offers a secluded atmosphere. However, visitors should heed current health advisories: on July 20, 2026, Israeli health and environmental authorities warned of elevated bacterial contamination in the Gilabon Stream, advising against entering the water until further notice.
For those seeking a longer hike, a challenging trail connects the Deborah and Gilabon waterfalls, the officers' pool, and the flour mill, requiring careful planning due to its non-circular route. Visitors are urged to respect private orchards, stay on marked paths to avoid mine-risk areas, and prepare adequately for sun exposure and rugged terrain. The short trail to Ein Gilabon provides a refreshing summer retreat with historical significance and natural beauty, though visitors must behave responsibly as guests of this unique site.
