Israel’s coastline is dotted by many points of beauty and interest. The sandy Mediterranean beaches were settled from prehistorical times and witnessed many historical affairs. This specially designed tour will take you along the coast north of Tel-Aviv and combine spectacular archaeological and historical sites with some stunning views of Israel’s northern coastline.
A 45 minutes’ drive north of Tel-Aviv will take you through Herzelyiah’s high-tech center, giving you an opportunity to review Israel’s immense high-tech industry. Upon reaching Caesarea, embark on a tour by foot to explore the main highlights of this ancient metropolis. Founded in the 1st century BCE, King Herod defied nature by forming the biggest man-made port in Caesarea. Today much of the port is submerged, and others were reused by the Crusaders. Facing the port, some of the Roman period warehouses were recently developed into a multimedia visitor center. Walk to the south, passing by a large Bathhouse complex, a unique Hippo-Stadium, Herod’s Promontory palace, and a grand theatre. Conclude the visit with a photo up at the picturesque section of Caesarea’s aqueduct by the sea.
A short drive north of Caesarea takes us to Atlit Detainee Camp where in British mandate times Jewish immigrants were detained by the British authorities. Near the camp, the impressive remains of the Atlit Crusaders Fortress attests well to Crusaders’ architecture and power. Continue the scenic route up the Carmel mountains, passing by the Carmel Prehistoric Caves, a testominy to human evolution. Driving along the Carmel’s mountain ridge you will reach Druze a village and learn about this fascinating minority, and enjoy a local lunch.
After the lunch break drive into Haifa, and head to the famous viewpoint Bahai Gardens. Completed in 2001, the Bahai Gardens are comprised of 19 terraced gardens above and below the ‘Shrine of the Bab’. Maintained year round by a devoted staff of gardeners, they are a manifest beautifully to Bahai faith and its center in Haifa. The view from the lowest terrace takes us also into Haifa’s picturesque German Colony. Built by German Christians in the 19th century, today the colony is a popular commercial and cultural center. We could stop at one of its chick coffee-bars for a drink, and then head back.
