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Land of Galilee

Overview

The Galilee lies in the north of Israel and is an exceptional riding holiday destination thanks to its interesting culture, archaeology, history and natural beauty. The terrain varies from pine forests with cyclamen to rocky regions and hills which are dotted with red and purple anemones. The lower…

Highlights

  • Be surprised by the beautiful greenery of the Galilee
  • Fascinating tours of Nazareth, Jerusalem and Mt Tabor
  • Learn about Israel's history from your host Yair
  • See the Sea of Galilee & Jordan River from horseback
  • Sample the delicious Israeli red wine

Essential Facts

  • 1 itinerary available
  • Max 12 riders per group
  • Average of 3 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 104kg / 229lbs / 16st 5lbs

Description

The Galilee lies in the north of Israel and is an exceptional riding holiday destination thanks to its interesting culture, archaeology, history and natural beauty. The terrain varies from pine forests with cyclamen to rocky regions and hills which are dotted with red and purple anemones. The lower Galilee is a pastoral area with fields of cotton, corn and wheat, whilst springs keep many areas wonderfully green at the right time of year. Not many people live here and there are few roads, so the culture of the past thrives as the generations live primarily uninterrupted.

In addition to impressive scenery, the Galilee is also home to many areas of biblical importance, Druze and Circassian villages with unique ways of life and Arab towns which welcome visitors with smiles from the locals and their culinary delights. On horseback you can enjoy meeting the different ethnic groups as you explore the landscapes of the Menashe plain, Carmel mountain range and Jezreel Valley. You will ride up majestic Mt Tabor and Mt Carmel and visit the ruins of Tel Meggido - the site of Armageddon. It's sometimes also possible also to swim with your horses in the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River.

Intensive riding days are complimented by walking tours of Nazareth and the old city of Jerusalem. Historical sites and colourful markets give a true taste of Israel's heritage.

Horses & Riding

Tack

The horses are primarily trained in western riding and are ridden in western tack as standard. However English or endurance saddles are available with prior notice.

Horses

Quarter Horses, Appaloosas and some Arabians.

Riding

There is 1 itinerary:

  • Land of Galilee is a trail ride

Ages

14+

Health

Good fitness is required as you need to be capable of riding 40km of day and to walk at times.

Weight

104kg / 229lbs / 16st 5lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

Meals are included in the price, up to lunch on Day 7. Breakfasts are served at your accommodation whilst lunches are generally picnics carried in your saddlebags. Dinners are primarily served in restaurants or private homes and include good, local style cuisine. Local wine is provided with meals whenever possible and this is also included in the cost.

The tours are not kosher but no pork is served during any of the rides. Vegetarians and other special dietary requirements can generally be catered for with prior notice.

Accommodation

The first three nights are in cosy country lodges, the fourth night is in a Bedouin tent and then the last two nights are back in country homes.

The Bedouin tent is one big tent that all guests share, sleeping on comfortable mattresses which are provided. You can borrow a sleeping bag from your hosts (free of charge) or bring your own as preferred.

Itineraries

Land of Galilee Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

This is a point to point trail ride, moving between accommodations, but non-riders are welcome to join in the support vehicle. Please contact us for further information.

Travel

Possible transfers include:

Day 1: Pick-up from a hotel in Tel Aviv at 3.30pm - 3.50pm or from Ben Gurion International Airport at 4.20pm (customers should have a flight landing by 3.30pm). * There is an additional cost for this transfer, paid locally in cash.

Taxis and trains are also possible, please get in touch for further information.

Day 7: Riders are dropped off in Tel Aviv or at Ben Gurion International Airport at approximately 6pm.

Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

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. Tonight you will sleep in a cosy country lodge located on the Moshav.

Day 2

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Today you will set off for your first day of trail riding in the Galilee’s beautiful natural landscape. After matching horses and tack with riders, you leave the stables in Shedmoat Devora to ride along the tributaries of the Tabor Stream, going past Kfar Keesh. You 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, you will canter in almond orchards and fields, returning to Shedmoat Devora. Following a short break, you will drive to Mt. Tabor to visit the Church of Transfiguration. Afterwards, you 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. You will return to Sharona for the night. 

Riding distance: 18 km (Approx)

Day 3

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

Your day will begin with a ride in the remarkable Sirin Heights to enjoy the stunning natural scenery along its streams and around its springs. You will ride to the lookout point of Mitzpe Ayloat for a breathtaking view of the Jordan Valley. Turn west and explore Ulem and Sirin Springs before arriving at the stables in Kfar Kish. You will then transfer by car towards the Jordan Valley. Upon reaching the Jordan River, you will have the chance to swim in the river before continuing to Kibbutz Degania. Kibbutz Degania was the world’s first kibbutz. Here you will learn all about this unique way of life. You will sleep in a beautiful lodge on Sharona.

Riding distance: 25km (Approx)

Day 4

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Today you will explore the area of Hitin horns and Arbel Stream, riding on the Jesus Trail which is one of the most famous historical trails.  This is the trail that connects Nazareth and Capernaum. 
You will then drive to Carmel, arriving in 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 you will have a traditional lunch in the nearby village of Osafia.
You will settle for the evening in a cozy country lodge of Kibbutz Dalia.

Riding distance: 15km (Approx)

Day 5

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

The western Carmel region is the location of this day full of adventure.  You will leave the western stable at Ramot Menashe (changing horse) and then riding west towards the beautiful Mediterranean's forest of Mt. Horsham, where you will explore the trails of this all-year-round green area.  Heading south toward Tzarbarin spring which was the water source for Caesarea in the Roman times.  You will cross the village of Amikam and canter east along Taninim (crocodile) stream back to the stables.
After the ride you will visit the archeological site of Tel Megido (Armageddon)
You will sleep the night in Dalia.

Riding distance: 18km (Approx)

Day 6

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

This will be a day devoted to the west Carmel region and the Mediterranean beach area.

Starting your ride in the prehistorical archeological site of Nahal Mearot, crossing the Hof Carmel agriculture area to arrive on this amazing beach for a lovely canter along towards the Habonim National Park where you will have chance to swim in the sea.
Continuing along the beach you will come across the fisherman village of Jeser el Zarka, finishing your beach adventure in Caesarea beach.
Your evening stay will be in Dalia.

Riding Distance 25km (Approx)

Day 7

Riding: No riding.

This day is dedicated to Jerusalem. You will travel by car from the Galilee to Jerusalem. You will drive to the Old City to follow the Via Dolorosa, the path that Jesus walked on his way to crucifixion. Along the way, you will visit the holy sites of the three monotheistic religions.
You will enjoy the legendary Humus of the old city, see the western Jerusalem - The Israeli Museum and the Kneset (the Israeli Parliament).

At the end of the day you can be dropped back at Tel Aviv Airport or to the City. No accommodation is included this evening.

Accommodation

5 nights spent in cosy country houses and 1 night in a bedouin tent.
Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Riders should be experienced at walk, trot and canter and able to control a horse in open country and over varied terrain. Good fitness is important.
Minimum group size 6
Maximum group size 12
Departure windows

May 27, 2023 - June 2, 2023

Sept. 9, 2023 - Sept. 15, 2023

Pricing

2023
Sharing		 £1900 $2300 €2135
Included 6 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals from dinner on arrival day to lunch on departure day, soft drinks and local wine with meals, 5 days of riding and sightseeing as per the itinerary.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, additional drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2023 - Airport Transfer $40
Paid locally
Transfer at a set time; cost is each way
2023 - Single Supplement £220 $270 €250
Paid to Far and Ride
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.