The national parks and nature reserves of Israel are some of the country’s most popular attractions, not only because of their history but because of their significance in the world. Though the country is small in boundaries, it prides itself on being home to a vast variety of nature reserves, wildlife, and unique species of plants. With so many parks to explore, as a tourist, it might get overwhelming when it comes to identifying which park to choose. If you like reading history and geography and you have a fascination for archaeology, a visit to these national parks is a must! In this article, we share information on the top national parks in Israel that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Ein Hemed National Park
Ein Hemed National Park is an iconic national park that’s located west of Jerusalem. It is a park and a garden that’s open to all visitors. The garden is known as Aqua Bella, and it’s spread across an enormous area and welcomes people to its vast recreational picnic area where they can enjoy themselves however they wish. There’s also a Crusader fortress where you can explore the remains of an agricultural farm, and a magical historic garden with flowing stream water and a burial cave. Visit the fort or test your travel photography skills at the park, a walk amidst Israel’s best nature park is sure to keep your mesmerized for days.
Ein Hemed National Park
Address: Israel
Website: Ein Hemed National Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
2. Gan HaShlosha National Park
Gan HaShlosha National Park is a famed water park to the west of the Bet She’an Valley. Visitors can swim in their beautiful pool where the water cascades from the Amal stream bed. The Museum of Regional and Mediterranean Archaeology houses artifacts and vessels from ancient cultures of Persia and Rome. The garden is also rich in flora and fauna, and seeds of some exquisite plant species like giant reeds, brambles, and shrubby saltbush. Do visit this site if you love admiring ancient relics.
Gan HaShlosha National Park
Address: Isarel
Website: Gan HaShlosha National Park
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
3. Tel Hazor National Park
Designated as a world heritage site in 2005, Tel Hazor National Park is an archaeological delight in Rosh Pinna, Israel. This garden has a lot of interesting establishments like Solomon’s Gate, a water plant, a Canaanite palace, and constructions like a fortress and residential buildings that were erected during ancient Israeli reign. The ruins of Tel Hazor is a very interesting sight for those who are fond of exploring biblical sites, ancient dwellings, as well as local culture, and history.
Tel Hazor National Park
Address: Road 90 Ayelet HaSHahar, Tiberias Israel
Website: Tel Hazor National Park
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4. Masada National Park
A view from the top of the plateau will remind you feel how tiny we are on the face of the earth! That’s what Masada National Park will remind you. Built as a refuge against the fight with Rome, Masada National Park was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its rich historical significance. The part boasts a view over the Dead Sea and desert. This national park also has a Byzantine church as well as the Masada Museum.
Masada National Park
Website: Masada National Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
5. Avdat National Park
In 2005, Avdat National Park was declared a World Heritage Park. It is a ruin of an ancient Nabatean city. It is situated in the middle of the desert, above the Tsin River. The ruins have a city fortress with a bathhouse, two Byzantine churches, and a burial cave. A walk from the length and breadth of this canyon will enlighten you with the history of this land. If you like hiking, this place will definitely give you a stimulating trek.
Avdat National Park
Website: Avdat National Park
6. Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park
Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park is truly an architectural delight that not only has great ancient buildings but also an extensive variety of flora, fauna and wildlife. The garden has an ancient amphitheater and a crusader church. The cave complex has many caves like bell caves, side burial caves, columbarium caves, and a mysterious maze cave with many cisterns. With a great hike and great views, this two-century-old site will amaze you with its rich history.
Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park
Website: Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
7. Yehiam Fortress National Park
Yehiam Fortress National Park is a result of the ruins of a hilltop castle. It is the remains of Crusader and Ottoman fortresses that were built on ruins of Roma and Byzantine structures. The view from the terrace, which also has a bathhouse, is terrific, overlooking the vast landscape. There’s a mushroom hall, which was earlier used to produce mushrooms but is now transformed. Central Crusader Tower provides a panoramic view of the surrounding. One can easily spend three to four hours touring this place.
Yehiam Fortress National Park
Address: Yehiam, Israel
Website: Yehiam Fortress National Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
8. Mount Carmel National Park
Mount Carmel National Park is a historic heritage park that glows with lush greenery all year round. The wild landscape is ideal for extensive hiking, and people of all ages can take part. The nature reserve is home to some endangered animals of the world, like the Persian hammer and reindeer caramel breed, eagles and poultry breed. The trail along the length of this trek is truly remarkable. You’ll encounter sites like Little Switzerland, Nahal Kalah and a monastery.
Mount Carmel National Park
Address: Haifa, Israel
Website: Mount Carmel National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Gamla National Park
Gamla National Park is a national park and nature reserve stretched along Gamla and the Daliot stream waterfall, in the center of the Golan Heights in Israel. This nature reserve has some really fascinating history, so if you like ancient stories, do visit this archaeological site. Tour by bus or on foot; the ancient town of Gamla offers a splendid view of the city.
Gamla National Park
Website: Gamla National Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
10. Korazim National Park
Korazim National Park is yet another wonder of Israel where you can view the wondrous synagogue and panoramic views of the Galilee Sea. The place has a great significance in the Bible, and it’s a must-visit for all who love exploring ancient ruins. The houses and parks are a great reminder of the strong architecture and design of that age, which, thankfully, we can see even now. Do check out this place.
Korazim National Park
Website: Korazim National Park
Explore the ruins
Israel is rich with archaeological ruins. All of these natural reserves and parks have been well maintained by the Israeli authority and are honored with the prestigious title of being world heritage sites. Be sure to check them out on your next visit to Israel!
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