Beautiful Lookout Points in the North of Israel
November 5th 2019
Mount Bental is a hilltop overlooking the famous Valley of Tears. The valley was the scene of a huge tank battle during the Yom Kippur War.
The north of Israel is hill country. From Mount Carmel on the coast to the mountains of the Golan in the east, there are resplendent elevated landscapes that have played an important part in the human history of this area. And it’s from some of these high positions, in the form of lookouts, where you can enjoy truly amazing views across this beautiful ancient land.
These observation points have often been used for military purposes. For centuries, these hilltop positions gave defenders early warning of imminent attacks, as well as physical defensive benefits. As you tour some of the following beautiful lookout points, you’ll discover more about the fascinating history behind the landscapes upon which you look.
When touring the north of Israel, we recommend you visit:
Mitzpe Golani (The Tale of David Shirazzi)
It was once a Syrian military base. Today Tel Facher is a memorial park commemorating the Israeli soldiers who died capturing the base from Syrian hands. It was during the 1967 war when Golani soldiers neutralized the threat enemy forces had been posing against Israeli civilians in the valley below. And at the heart of this memorial is the heroic story of David Shirazzi.
Private Shirazzi saved the lives of his comrades by using his body as a bridge. He knew he would not survive. From the Mitzpe Golani lookout, you can enjoy amazing views across the Hula Valley and a poignant insight into the sacrifices young soldiers gave for their country.
Mitzpor Eitan Memorial & Lookout
On the northern border with Lebanon is one example of many smaller military memorials dotted about the country. It differs from the big memorial sites such as Mount Herzl or Ammunition Hill, in that it’s dedicated to one fallen soldier. The Mitzpor Eitan Memorial and Lookout is a private memorial named after Major Eitan Balachsun, who died while on duty in Lebanon in 1999.
The memorial sits atop a hill overlooking the Galilee’s picturesque Hula Valley and is near Major Balachsun’s childhood home. Visitors to the lookout can look across the valley and towards the peaks of the Golan Heights, as well as the distant mountains of Lebanon.
Mitzpe Shalom Lookout in the Golan
Mitzpe Shalom lies near to the eastern shores of the Sea of Galilee (the Kinneret) near to Kibbutz Kfar Haruv. Also known as the Peace Lookout or Peace Vista, this amazing observation point provides tourists with stunning views of the lake and across to the city of Tiberias. On a clear day, you can even spot the holy city of Tzfat in the distance as well as Mount Tavor.
Near to the lookout are some wonderful walking trails from which you can view freshwater springs, colorful wildflowers, and fig trees. Visitors can also stay at the Peace Vista Country Lodge and float in warm salt water cave pools.
Mount Bental IDF Bunker Lookout
Mount Bental is a hilltop overlooking the famous Valley of Tears. The valley was the scene of a huge tank battle during the Yom Kippur War, which was directed from the bunkers on the lookout. 160 Israeli tanks prevailed against 1500 Syrian tanks, albeit at the price of many lives.
When you visit Mount Bental, you’ll learn more about the battle as well as view the extraordinary panoramic views of the northeastern Golan Heights. You’ll also be able to look over into Syria.
Kibbutz Misgav-Am Lookout Point
In the far north of Israel, near Metula, is the Kibbutz Misgav-Am Lookout Point. It’s right on the border with Lebanon and gives visitors stunning views of both Israeli and Lebanese territories. You will get to see a complete panoramic view which includes the Hula Valley, the Golan Heights, and snow-topped Mount Hermon, as well as the distant Mediterranean Sea, on a sunny day.
It’s Israel’s northernmost kibbutz and one with a fascinating story, which you’ll learn from guides when you visit.
