Nature Reserves

The transformation of the Hula Valley in the 1920s by Zionist pioneers remains a remarkable achievement. Just south of Kiryat Shmona, the Hula Nature Reserve (tel. 93 70 69) blossoms where a few decades ago a vast swamp festered. The 775. acre reserve encompasses dense cypress groves and open fields; exotic wildlife such as razorbacks and mongeese dwell within the underbrush. The entrance booth rents binoculars for NIS7, which are helpful for those interested in identifying the infinitude of birds that wings its way over the papyrus thickets, swamps, and reeds.

Try to arrive early: the park becomes progressively less serene as families with vocally inquisitive children get there. Buses #840, 841, and 501 (NIS6.30), leaving frequently from Kiryat Shmona (2 per hr. or more), will take you to a junction 3km from the entrance to the reserve, and from there you can walk, skip, or crawl. The observation area has little shade. There’s a kiosk and picnic area for snacks, and a visitors center offers exhibits on flora and fauna, and screens a 15-minute film. (Open Sat.-Thurs. 8am-4:30pm, Fri. 8am-3:30pm.)

All nature reserves listed here are open Saturday through Thursday 8am-5pm, Friday 8am-4pm, closing one hour earlier November through March. (Admission NIS11. Combined ticket for Hula, Banyas, Gamla, Dan, and Ayun Reserves, available at all 5 sites, NIS27.)