Top 10 Things To Do In Kiryat Shmona, Israel

1. Discover adventure at the Naftali Mountains Forest

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, you need to stop by the Naftali Mountains Forest. This area is covered with trees but has several paths leading to views of the natural splendor of the Hula Valley, the Golan Heights, Mount Hermon, and even southern Lebanon. The main path runs the length of the forest which stretches some 800 hectares (2,000 acres) and includes hilly heights up to 800 meters (2,660 feet).

Naftali Mountains Forest

Address: Northern Israel, Central Galilee and the Golan Heights

Website: Naftali Mountains Forest

2. Explore the history of the Hatser Tel Hai

History buffs with a desire to walk through history should come see the Hatser Tel Hai or the Tel Hai Courtyard. Within sight of the Naftali Mountains Forest, visit the place that tells the story of pioneers who settled the area so long ago. The museum tells the story of the Battle of Joseph Trumpeldor, who led many Jewish people into the area around the turn of the twentieth century. Here you can expect to find group and individual tours and caravan tours.

Hatser Tel Hai

Address: Upper Galilee, North Region

Website: Hatser Tel Hai (in Hebrew)

3. Visit the Hunin Castle

If you are more the ruins type of history lover, then check out the Hunin Castle, also known as the Fortress of Hunin. This structure dates back to the Crusades when it was originally built. Centuries later, the Ottomans updated and rebuilt the fortress. Prior to the crusades, there was a settlement on this land as far back as the Iron Age (1200 BCE to 1000 BCE). Time took pieces from this historic structure, but the earthquake of 1837 tore it down to ruins.

Visit the Hunin Castle

Address: מרגליות, Kiryat Shemoneh, 10200 Hazafon, Israel

Website: Visit the Hunin Castle

4. Hike or take a cable car up the Manara Cliff

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Calling all extreme adventurers! Extreme sports fans will find a home at the Manara Cliff. Here you can enjoy a cable car lift to the top and then the fun begins. Take on mountain biking, moderate to difficult rock climbing, hiking, and zip-line rides. Bring the whole family as there are activities for kids including a children’s climbing wall and archery.

Manara Cliff

Address: Highway #90 between Rosh Pina and Kityat Shmona, Kiryat Shmona, Israel

Website: Manara Cliff (in Hebrew)

5. Take in the sights of the Kibbutz Misgav Am

Looking for a breathtaking view of southern Lebanon from the northernmost parts of Israel? Then come to the Kibbutz Misgav-Am. This area was founded by young people on the day of the Balfour Declaration which was November 2, 1945. This area includes a distinct view of valleys and mountains. Guides at the visitor’s center provide the context and history of this troubled zone. Tours led by local guides are available in Hebrew, English, French, Spanish, Dutch, German, and Russian.

Kibbutz Misgav Am

Address: Misgav Am, Israel

Website: Kibbutz Misgav Am

6. Family fun and relaxation at the Horshat Tal National Park

Take the whole family for a relaxing day at the Horshat Tal National Park. This nature and recreation resort offers swimming in the lake fed by the cool waters of the Dan Stream. Enjoy the wide open spaces, BBQ areas, and campgrounds. Don’t miss the 13 species of orchids in the protected area.

Horshat Tal National Park

Address: HaGoshrim Interchange | Hula Valley, Kiryat Shmona, Israel

Website: Horshat Tal National Park

7. Appreciate the art at the Open Museum of Photography

Need a break from the outdoors but still want to appreciate the beauty of the area? Check out The Open Museum of Photography. Right in the city, this museum offers rotating exhibitions for all ages. Some of the work is from local high school students. Events include poetry readings and visiting artists from the local college, the region, and the world.

Open Museum of Photography

Address: Tel-Hai Industrial Park, Kiryat Shmona, Israel

Website: Open Museum of Photography

8. Get some shopping done at the Big Kiryat Shmona

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Did you forget something for your trip? Have you been dying to get a new outfit, but haven’t found the time? Now is the time at the shopping center called the Big Kiryat Shmona. This is an open-air shopping center hosting 36 stores that offer fashion brands, electrical appliances, drug store, supermarket, housewares, restaurants, and cafés.

Big Kiryat Shmona

Address: Southern Industrial Zone near Road 90, Kiryat Shmona, Israel

Website: Big Kiryat Shmona

9. Can you solve the North Escape?

Puzzles, mysteries, riddles, and mind games are waiting behind the locked door of the Northern Escape. In this adventure, you are thrust right into a puzzle to be solved within a set amount of time. Come ready with a group of friends, either small or large, and build trust as you work together trying to escape the room.

North Escape

Address: kibutz Hagoshrim, Kiryat Shmona, Israel

Website: North Escape

10. Don’t miss the Memorial for the Fallen Helicopter Disaster

A big part of history is paying tribute to those who lost their lives. Israel takes special care of its fallen soldiers. The Fallen Helicopter Disaster occurred in 1973 when 73 soldiers lost their lives. This memorial includes 73 rocks, boldly standing against the sky, standing for the men who no longer stand. Each of the rocks is unique to represent the uniqueness of the men who died.

Memorial for the Fallen Helicopter Disaster

Address: She'ar Yashuv, Northern Israel

Website: Memorial for the Fallen Helicopter Disaster (in Hebrew)

The natural history of Israel

The Kiryat Shmona area offers an escape from city life. Come witness the natural Israeli beauty in the area while immersing yourself in its rich history. Whether you seek the thrill of adventures or quiet sobering moments, you will find it here. Come explore Kiryat Shamona, Israel to experience this nation’s nature and history in your own way.