Galilee

As I mentioned in a previous post, we recently had the opportunity to visit the northern part of Israel to meet with some of the more interesting companies in the country.  What I didn't mentioned in that post is that between all of the work, we found some time to take in the beautiful sights and scenery of the Galilee region.

Our first stop along this journey was the city of Safed.  At nearly 3,000 feet of above sea level, this city provides views over the countryside below filled with vineyards and dotted by pine trees.  Dating as far back as its biblical references, Safed serves as one of Judaism's four holy cities, which is noticeable from first arrival.  Walking the shop-lined cobbled streets of the old city, one feels as though he were transported back in time.

The team exploring Safed

After Safed, our next stop along the journey into the North was a rafting trip along the Jordan River.  Relaxing on inflatable rafts and kayaks, we paddled (or in some cases just floated) down the shady and tree-lined Jordan River which feeds the Sea of Galilee.

Once we completed our trip down the Jordan, we headed towards our hotel at Kibutz Ha'on. Nestled on the eastern shores of the Sea of Galilee, our accommodations faced west across the Sea towards Tiberias, making for an unforgettable sunset.

Galilee sunset

The next morning we were up early to tour a few of the countless holy sites surrounding the Sea of Galilee.  From churches:

The Church of the Beatitudes

to ancient ruins:

we took in the best sites that the Galilee has to offer.  We capped off our Galilee experience with some excellent hiking with great views of the entire region:

and an offroad jeep tour of the surrounding countryside:

After this weekend, we all came away with a deep appreciation of the history and natural beauty of the Galilee Region.  Warm and sunny by day, cool and quiet by night, and home to some of Israel's most hospitable people, I believe we are all eager to one day return.