From Shadmot Dvora to Yavneel

Service Description

The hike begins in Shadmot Dvora, a moshav (agricultural cooperative) founded in 1939 as part of the “Tower and Stockade” settlements, a large-scale initiative that established around fifty villages across the territory between 1936 and 1939. Mount Tabor, with its famous rounded shape, accompanies us for much of the route. After 5 km, we reach Kfar Kish, founded in 1946 by former Jewish soldiers demobilized from the British army. Leaving Kfar Kish (note a pleasant café on HaMeyasdim Street for a short break…), we follow the Nahal Tavor, an important stream originating in the Nazareth Hills and flowing into the Jordan River. This long valley has served as a natural passage between the Jordan Valley and the Galilee for thousands of years. Next, we reach the Ein Rekhesh spring (עין רכש), located within the Nahal Tavor Nature Reserve, near Tel Rekhesh (a biblical hill). It’s possible to cool off in its crystal-clear water, but be careful… the water is not drinkable. We continue the trek by ascending the Sirin Plateau to enjoy a unique view of the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee. On the plateau, we cross numerous agricultural lands and orchards. Along the way, we encounter endemic trees such as pistachio trees, jujube trees, and weeping willows. Gradually, we leave the hills of Lower Galilee and descend into the valley of the Sea of Galilee. The descent toward Yavnéel begins, where along the way we encounter volcanic basalt, eventually reaching Ein Haratsit, a beautiful spring overlooking the valley. A short detour allows exploration of Ein Yavnéel, another spring tucked into rocky cavities… a headlamp is useful to reach it. The hike ends in Yavnéel, an agricultural village founded in 1901, now home to a mixed population, including a Hasidic community.