Private Safed, Winery, and the Golan Heights

This wonderful full-day private Holy Land tour includes an excursion to Safed, the Golan Heights, and the Dalton Winery on the Upper Galilee, for those looking to travel off the beaten track.

After meeting your guide on the pier in Haifa, they will drive you to the northern Israeli town of Safed, approximately 90 minutes away, traveling along the famous route that was described in James Michener's book, "The Source." Located 3,200 feet above sea level in the mountains of the Upper Galilee, this somewhat modest-sized community is the highest in Israel, and commands magnificent views east to the Golan Heights, north to Mt. Hermon and Lebanon, west to Mt. Meron and the Amud Valley, and south to Tiberias and the Sea of Galilee. Historical sources indicate that Safed was founded during Roman times in the 2nd century A.D. Local legend is that the city was founded by one of Noah's sons after the great flood. During the 13th century, it became the center for many Jewish scholars who founded the Zohar and Kabala theories. Today, Safed has seen a rebirth and resurgence of popularity, becoming once again a center for Jewish learning. This utterly charming mountain enclave with its quaint cobblestone streets has also gained a reputation as being a haven for artists. Your approximately 90 minutes in Safed includes a visit to the town's vibrant artist colony as well as the ancient Synagogue Quarter.

Proceeding on, you will make your way to Dalton Winery, a leading winery set in these same beautiful green mountains of the Upper Galilee. The combination of high altitude, optimum soil conditions and unique climate found here provides the ideal conditions for growing grapes in Israel. An enjoyable tour of the winery and a wine tasting are included during your visit.

Leaving the mountains behind, it's a picturesque 45-minute drive to the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Here, a break will be taken for lunch on your own. Your guide will be happy to make suggestions.

Next, you will cross over the Jordan River and ascend the Golan Heights. From high atop this volcanic plateau that is situated on the borders of Israel, Jordan and Syria, you will find some utterly breathtaking panoramic views and plenty of time is allowed for taking photos. Your afternoon also includes a stop at the Yardenit baptismal site where the Jordan River separates from the Sea of Galilee. In this naturally scenic and symbolic setting, pilgrims from around the world come to perform baptismal ceremonies. During your 90-minute drive back to Haifa, you will pass Beit Shearim, the well-known 2nd-century Jewish burial ground.

Please note: The order of the sites visited may vary.