Five Stunning Spots in the Golan Heights to Experience November Foliage

Autumn in Israel is barely noticeable in most regions, but the Golan Heights transforms into a vibrant palette of orange, red, and yellow as orchards and vineyards change colors ahead of winter. One of the best spots to experience this brief autumn foliage is Kibbutz Merom Golan. Every Friday and Saturday in November, guided foliage tours led by veteran landscaper Hanoch depart from the hotel reception. Visitors can explore unique trees like sequoia, fir, chestnut, and maple. The tour is free for hotel guests and costs 65 shekels for participants aged 10 and older. Afterward, visitors can head to the Kunt</td>ra Valley viewpoint, easily found on Waze, to admire the red and yellow apple and cherry orchards.

Rare Autumn Blooms Across the Heights

Travelers can still catch the golden-yellow Sternbergia and the checkered autumn crocus blooming together on the Bshan Ridge. Navigating to Tel Hazaka leads to parking near the Hazaka-Juwaiza trail, where a short walk among oak trees reveals clusters of flowers. In the northern Golan, crocuses are currently blooming near the Brown Pool, also known on Waze as Bab al-Hawa, and at the Big Juba in the Odem Forest. These seasonal blooms provide a breathtaking contrast against the darkening landscape.

Trails and Culinary Stops in the Golan

For hikers seeking a longer trek, the 9-kilometer Nahal Mitsar trail in the southern Golan leads to the Yarmouk River along the border with Jordan. It is a linear trail ending near Kibbutz Mevo Hama. Alternatively, a shorter and easier route begins at Amphi Golan, passing an ancient 1,500-year-old Jewish burial cave with an engraved menorah and leading to an observation point dedicated to Omri Tal. Food options abound, from the classic Bokrim Restaurant in Merom Golan serving local beef and wines, to Shimmy's American grill in Bnei Yehuda, and the Dodis bistro in Givat Yoav.