This self-guided hike follows the Gospel Trail, commencing in Nazareth and walks in the footsteps of Jesus to the Sea of Galilee as he began to spread the gospels. We visit many intriguing natural and cultural sites along the route, that shed light on significantly dramatic events in history. The landscapes are varied and contrasting from the gentle rolling hills of Lower Galilee to the basalt plains, woodlands and agricultural regions of the east lower Galilee, and to the predominating almost barren landscape around the Sea of Galilee. Stunning and interesting scenic look out spots are a spectacular part of the diversity of the Gospel Trail. The finishing point in Tabgha on the northern shores of the Sea of Galilee between the lakeside churches is undoubtedly rewarding providing an extraordinary experience for the independent pilgrim. This trip is the perfect addition to the Israel National Trail: Caesarea to Nazareth self-guided hike.
Highlights
- Enjoy a warm welcome and friendly hospitality at your accommodation at the end of each hiking day
- Marvel at the scenic views of the Galilee, Golan Heights and the Ginnosar Valley from the top of Arbel Cliff
- Explore the lakeside churches of Tabgha, Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes
Itinerary
Day 1 Join Nazareth
You will be met by our local representative and provided with a Welcome briefing. You will be provided with safety instructions, explanations of how to operate the GPS navigation program, a local telephone with emergency contact numbers, and one information pack per room booked.
Day 2 Hike to Ilaniya (6-7 hrs, 17 kms)
This morning you will be transferred to the trailhead. You will walk through quiet wooded areas and continue along the trail for spectacular vantage points with a reward of great views of the Lower Galilee and the Jezreel Valley. Most of this trail is downhill and completely shaded. In the spring you can find carpets of flowers under the Mount Tabor Oak of the Beit Keshet forest. Mount Tabor with the Church of the Transfiguration at its summit can be seen almost the whole length of the trail. (B)
Day 3 Hike to Arbel (6 hrs, 16 kms)
Early in the day the trail crosses one of the busiest intersections in the Galilee – the Golani Junction. An easy walking trail that begins tucked back in a planted pine forest continues after crossing the road, to wide open spaces of agricultural area with pastures, wheat or chickpeas. The trail passes through one of the largest and most famous battlegrounds in the history of Israel – the Battle of Karnei Hittin, between the Crusaders and the Muslim army of Salah-a-Din. There is a magnificent view of the Arbel Cliff and the Sea of Galilee in all its splendour. Towards the end of the trail you are strongly recommended to visit the holy place of the Druze. The trail ends in Moshav Arbel, and if you arrive just before sunset you are guaranteed a mesmerising sight. (B, D)
Day 4 Hike to Tabgha (6 hrs, 15 kms)
Arbel Cliff is one of the most beautiful vantage points in Israel. It is worthwhile to get up early and watch the sunrise over the Golan Heights. The edge of the cliff overlooks the Sea of Galilee and the Ginnosar Valley as well as parts of the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights. The trail goes steeply downhill from an altitude of 180 metres above sea level to a height of 200 metres below sea level on the Sea of Galilee. The trail continues north alongside the groves of the Ginnosar Valley passing through Migdal (Magdala – Mary of Magdalene´s hometown). (B, D)
Day 5 Visit Tabgha, Capernaum and Mount of Beatitudes (5 hrs, 13 kms)
This day is dedicated to pilgrimage and visiting the churches of Tabgha (Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes), Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes. There is a promenade between the churches along the northern edge of the Sea of Galilee and the trail passes through orchards and fields, a nice mix of sacred and nature. In the church yards you can wander between beautiful buildings both old and modern, landscaped gardens, ornamental ponds, colourful mosaics and more. The trail is flexible and you can choose which of the sites to visit and so determine the length of the trail. This is an opportunity to take your time and absorb the unique atmosphere of the area. (B, D)
Day 6 In Tabgha, trip concludes
This morning will be free at leisure. Trip concludes after breakfast. (B)
Inclusions
- 5 breakfasts and 3 dinners
- 5 nights in comfortable hotels and B&B’s on a twinshare basis
- Trail transfers as listed in itinerary
- Use of GPS navigation system
- Luggage transfers as listed in itinerary
- Welcome briefing, and one information pack per room booked
- Emergency hotline
WEX-INW
Images courtesy of WorldExpeditions
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