Land of Galilee

Introduction
North Israel
The unique combination of fascinating history, breathtaking scenery and sunny weather make Israel the perfect tourist destination. And there is no better way to experience Israel’s magic than on horseback. Located in the north, the Land of Galilee is a fantastic and exotic horse riding vacation. Whether you are interested in culture, archeology, history or natural beauty – the Galilee has it all. Sparsely populated and with rocky terrain, there are few roads connecting the communities populating the Galilee, so naturally the best way to explore the region is from the back of a horse, the peace of being one with a horse allowing you to truly feel the full extent of foreign land you explore. The remoteness of the location has allowed distinct cultures to continue on uninterrupted for generations. There are cities, past and present, of biblical importance which call out to be discovered by you. See the Druze and Circassian villages maintaining their traditional ways of life. And there are many Arab towns who welcome visitors with their friendly smiles and  special culinary delights. With a backdrop of vivid natural scenery, this land rewards adventure tourists with unparalleled opportunities for horseback riding challenges and cultural discoveries.

Horseback riding in the Land of Galilee...
This is a mounted adventure packed with intensive riding through the beautiful landscapes of the Menashe plain, Carmel mountain range and the Jezreel Valley. We will ride up majestic Mt. Tabor and Mt. Carmel, explore the ruins of Tel Meggido – the site of Armageddon, and swim with our horses in the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. We will get to know the different ethnic groups inhabiting this area including the charming Druze and engaging Circassians. This trip also includes walking tours of Nazareth and the Old City of Jerusalem and their colorful markets.
 

Accomodation

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations.

Description
Accommodations are spent in rustic wooden bungalows with private hot showers and running toilets. We have carefully chosen our sleeping locations for cleanliness and comfort. 
All rooms have private bathrooms and WIFI. Laundry is not available for this trip.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 - 3: Country Lodge in Moshav Sharona
Night 4 - 6: Country Lodge in Kibbutz Dalia

Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.



Meals
All meals from dinner on Day 1 to lunch on Day 7 are included.

Our staff will prepare healthy, fresh, filling meals so no one ever rides on an empty stomach. 

We know there is nothing more satisfying than a cold beer after a long ride. Some of our meals, usually dinner, include beer, wine or liquor. When dining in Arab restaurants, no alcoholic beverages are allowed.

Dietary Restrictions
We can accommodate vegetarians and other special dietary (including kosher) requests if given prior notice.
No pork is served on any of our trips.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding


Riding Level
The overall success of a horseback holiday depends on all riders having the skills to safely perform at the pace expected. Riders with insufficient skills are a danger to themselves and to others. As a result, it is crucial that you be experienced and fit enough to ride 30 km a day.
This horseback vacation is designed for riders with good intermediate riding skills.

Horses
Our horses are mostly local Arabian horses trained in Western riding but that can easily adjust to English riders. They are well groomed, in great shape and perfectly suited for horseback vacations (many of them are trained for Endurance). We match you with a horse and tack according to the information you provide when signing up for a riding holiday. For riders with greater riding proficiency, we can provide a more spirited horse; for less experienced riders, we pair horses that are easily handled. Also, upon request, pure Arabians from our breeding program can be provided.

Tack
Quality Western tack for comfort and ease. In general, we use Western tack made in the USA. In our experience with trail riding vacations, riders who are used to English tack quickly adapt to riding Western style. Nevertheless, we can arrange for English tack if given notice ahead of time.
If you would prefer to use your own tack, this is possible only if it fits the horse we have assigned you. You are welcome to bring your own tack but we cannot guarantee you will be able to use it.

Staff
The tour is led by at least 1 licensed certified trail riding guide. All of our guides are skilled horsemen, specializing in trail riding. They combine their passion for horses with a deep knowledge and love of Israel. They all speak English.

Safety
Safety is of utmost importance on all our horseback vacations.
Before every trip, our guides make a run through to ensure the trails are safe. In addition, we always carry a first aid kit.
It can get very hot in Israel, especially in the summer and in the desert. We have strict rules regarding weather conditions, including never riding in temperatures over 90°F (32°C).

Itinerary


Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
On the first day of the trip, you have the option of being picked up at 3:30pm from your hotel in Tel Aviv or at 4:20pm from Ben Gurion International Airport. It is also possible to arrive independently at Moshav Sharona by 6:00pm. Arrival in early evening at Moshav Sharona in the lower Galilee. After introductions and explanations followed by dinner, you will enjoy an enlightening lecture on the history of Israel. We will sleep in a cozy country lodge located on the Moshav.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Moshav Sharona

Day 2 (Sunday): Ride along Tabor Stream & Nazareth Walking Tour
Today, we will set off for our first day of trail riding in the Galilee’s beautiful natural landscape. After matching horses and tack with riders, we leave the stables in Shedmoat Devora to ride along the tributaries of the Tabor Stream, going past Kfar Keesh. We will eventually come to the Tabor Stream and visit Tel Rechesh where, according to some sources, part of King Solomon’s legendary stables were located. Afterwards, we will canter in almond orchards and fields, returning to Shedmoat Devora.
Following a short break, we will drive to Mt. Tabor to visit the Church of Transfiguration. Afterwards, we will continue on to Nazareth for a walking tour of the holy sites and markets. You will enjoy the unique sights, aromas, and tastes of this intriguing city. A delicious dinner will be served in an authentic Bedouin village. We will return to Sharona for the night. 
Riding approx. 18 km/ 11 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Moshav Sharona

Day 3 (Monday): Sirin Heights Ride 
Our day will begin with a ride in the remarkable Sirin Heights to enjoy the stunning natural scenery along its streams and around its springs. We will ride to the lookout point of Mitzpe Ayloat for a breathtaking view of the Jordan Valley.
We will then head west and explore Ulem and Sirin springs, before arriving to our stables in Kfar Kish. 
Then, we will drive by car to the Jordan veally where we will swim in the holly waters of the Jordan (without the horses) and then drive to Kibbutz Degania. Kibbutz Degania was the world’s first kibbutz. There, we will learn all about this unique way of life. We will sleep in the lodge on Sharona.
Riding approx. 25 km/ 15.5 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Moshav Sharona

Day 4 (Tuesday): Jesus Trail Ride & Carmel Visit
Today’s horseback riding adventure will have us explore the area of Hitin horns and Arbel stream. Actually, we will ride today on the Jesus Trail which is one of the most famous historical trails. This trail connects Nazareth and Capernaum. After our ride, we will drive to Carmel and visit El-Muharrakah, the site where the Prophet Elijah supposedly slaughtered the prophets of Baal. The views are as amazing as the biblical stories. After touring the Carmelite Monastery located, we will have a traditional meal in the nearby Druze village of Osafia.
Tonight, we sleep in the cozy country lodge of Kibbutz Dalia.
Riding approx. 15 km/ 9 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kibbutz Dalia

Day 5 (Wednesday): Forests & Streams
In the morning, we will leave our stables at Ramot Menashe (changing horse today) and then we will ride west toward the beautiful Mediterranean forest of Mt.Horshan. We will explore the trails of this all year green area, then we will be heading south toward Tzabarin spring which was the water source for Caesarea during Roman times. We will cross the village of Amikam and canter east along Taninim (crocodile) stream back to our stables. 
After the ride we will visit the archeological site of Tel Megido (Armageddon).
Riding approx. 18 km/ 11 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kibbutz Dalia

Day 6 (Thursday): Carmel Ride
The majestic Carmel region is the location of this day full of adventure. We will start our ride by exploring the prehistoric archeological site of Nahal Mearot. Then, we ride towards the Mediterranean Beach. There, we will canter across this amazing beach toward Habonim National Park where we have the chance to go for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea before continuing to ride along the Beach, crossing the fisherman village of Jeser el Zarka.
We will finish our beach adventure in Caesarea beach.  
Riding approx. 25 km/ 15.5 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kibbutz Dalia

Day 7 (Friday): Jerusalem Visit (no riding)
This day is dedicated to Jerusalem. We will travel by car from Kibbutz Dalia to Jerusalem. We will drive to the Old City to follow the Via Dolorosa, the path that Jesus walked on his way to crucifixion. Along the way, we will visit the holy sites of the three monotheistic religions. Being Friday, we will experience the special atmosphere of the Holy City getting ready for the Sabbath. Jerusalem on Friday evening is the perfect time to end your Israeli experience. End of program around 5:00pm. We will drop you off at Tel Aviv airport around 6:00 pm (drop off also possible in Tel Aviv city center).
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch



Non-Riders
Non-riders can join this trips by riding in the escort car. We must know ahead of time if non-riders will be joining.

Rates and Dates for Land of Galilee

Dates Note:
Other dates possible by request except July & August.
Best months for this trip are October to May

Other Info
Meeting: Moshav Sharona
Airport: Tel Aviv Ben Gurion International Airport.
Transfer: Tel Aviv

Climate:
                                            Nazareth area