Luxury Israel Ancient Wonders Cycle 7D6N (Sea of Galilee to Old Jerusalem), Fully Guided

Level 1, Approx. 26km (16 miles), 1-3 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)

Meet your Backroads Trip Leaders at 8 a.m just outside the Setai Tel Aviv hotel. Have your luggage outside the hotel, on the corner of David Razi'el Street and Yossi Carmel Square. Arrive dressed in your biking clothes, wearing comfortable shoes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's ride. Your luggage will be transported to your first night's accommodation.

Welcome to Israel! Embark on a short walking adventure through the enchanting streets of the Old City of Jaffa and Jaffa Port. Then fit onto your bikes and traverse along the well-known Tel Aviv Promenade and north across the coastal plain. Ride on trafficked roads and quiet bike lanes, where we navigate a mile-long gravel section before cruising along the famous Tel Aviv Beach Promenade and Hayarkon Park. End the ride exploring the seaside crusader ruins of Apolloni before finishing in Herzliya, where you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch.

This afternoon we shuttle north to Zikhron Ya'akov and settle into your home for the next night, Elma Arts Complex Luxury Hotel. The hotel's serpentine-shaped main building was constructed in 1968 as the Mivtachim Sanatorium. With its clean white lines, exposed concrete and simple geometrical shapes, the award-winning design embodies the essence of 1960s Israeli architecture. The restored Elma is now a boutique hotel and world-class center for the arts with two cutting-edge concert halls and art galleries. Embark on a short tour of the property gaining insight into its history and design. Alternatively, simply dip in the pool with sweeping views of the ocean or stroll its expansive lush gardens before toasting a glass with your adventure ahead. Tonight, dine on modern Israeli cuisine in the hotel's exquisite restaurant

Level 2, Approx. 25km (15 miles), 2-3 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 427m (1400ft)

Start your early morning to discover the scenic rewards and exploration of religious Judaism after shuttle to the Upper Galilee, where you will mount your bike close to the Lebanese border. Commence your exciting journey at the ruins of Bar'am, one of the earliest synagogues of Israel, spending some time discovering the incredible ruins along with a local guide to learn the moving history behind the crumbling constructions. Derive pleasure from the gorgeous views of Israeli and Lebanese countryside as you ride along the rolling hills. When you first catch a glimpse of the verdant vegetation that flanks the route on each side, your jaws are going to drop with excitement.

In Ramot Naftali hamlet, you'll complete your bike ride with an unforgettable lunch and breathtaking views of the Hula Valley and the Golan Heights. The picturesque lake Hula, a resting place for migrating birds, can be seen in the distance. Rami, the winery's lovely winemaker and owner, hosts a wine tasting session. Drink some of the unique wine; it's a terrific way to indulge your senses.

The rest of the day leaves you with two equally gratifying options. Either opt for a shuttle to the majestic town of Safed or head towards your hotel to seek relaxation. Pay a visit to the most elevated city of Israel, Safed, one of the four holy centers of Judaism plunged into the pine woods of upper Galilee, overlooking the sea Galilee, and Tiberias. Set out on a guided walking tour to gain insights into the ancient city of Safed, a center of Jewish mysticism. Behold the ancient and modern delights of the holy city at an altitude of 900 meters. The city rewards art lovers by giving them the opportunity to explore the art gallery and shop for some local art and souvenirs.

You’ll stay at Kibbutz Merom Golan, situated on the slopes of Mount Bental. As the first kibbutz founded in the Golan in 1977, it offers a unique experience that can only be found on the Israeli kibbutzim. Unwind by the pool, laze in its spacious lounges or take a lovely stroll in its lush gardens. Tonight, indulge in a family-style meal featuring barbecued kosher meats at the kibbutz's Habokrim restaurant.

Level 2, Approx. 33km (20 miles), 2-4 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 427m (1400ft)

Delve into the serenity, and culturally intriguing sites of the Golan Heights. Absorb yourself into a riveting cycle ride through the elevated routes. Pedal ride through massive fields and archaic olive groves all the way to the Druze village of Mas'ade. The village sits in the lap of nature, featuring widely spread small houses. Appreciate the sweetness of the midmorning treat as you taste classic Arab-style desserts with tea and coffee. Transit through a brief bustling area through the town and ascend to the foothills of Mount Hermon, a sacred place and the highest spot on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

A pedal down the flourishing valley will grab your attention to the imposing Nimrod Fortress standing on a faraway hill. The fortress, constructed in the 13th century by the governor of Bania, a nearby township, once served as a defense against a march on Damascus. Culminate the cycle ride at the fortress and explore the ruins with the assistance of a local guide. Take in a full view of the Golan from the top of the highest and only peak in Israel that is capped with snow.

Witness an afternoon of unexcelled adventure in the Golan heights. Hold in awe the sights of the passing apple, cherry, and peach orchards towards the Syrian border. The watery view of the legendary Crater Ram will stop you in your tracks. Satisfy your appetite at an offbeat location of Druze villager's home by relishing a homemade meal. Imbibe the secretive Druze culture and religion.

Pick from unwinding at the hotel or rambling along the border of Syria. Draw yourself into the intricate geopolitics of the area, and give a visit to the residues of the Yom Kippur War of 1973. At the end of the day, take a quick shuttle to the apex of the volcanic Mount Bental. Take immense pleasure in viewing the beauteous valleys and the Syrian-Israeli border from above. Sip an earthy coffee on the summit and fill up with a meticulously cooked lunch. Seize the opportunity to drink one of the finest wines in Israel at the Golan Heights.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 41km (25 miles), 2-4 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 61m (200ft)
Level 3, Approx. 56km (35 miles), 3-5 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200ft)
Level 4, Approx. 64km (40 miles), 3-5 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200ft)

As you descend the elevated regions with your bike, the mesmerizing panoramic vistas of the mid-east come into view. After breakfast, begin a bike ride along the Syrian border and then head inland toward the Sea of Galilee. Descending from an elevation of 3,500 feet feels like a gigantic plummet which rewards you with breath-taking scenery along your way and leads straight to your home for the night, The Setai Sea of Galilee. Today is rather a relaxing day filled with short strolls, swims, and spa treatments as per your convenience.

The massive premises of The Setai Sea of Galilee, located on the east shores of the lake, has abundant fruit and palm trees. You get to choose from a wide range of activities after you savor a poolside lunch. Rekindle your freshness by rejuvenating spa treatments of The Setai, the largest spa complex in Israel. Flanked by the tranquil ambiance, the relaxing treatments ranging from a Turkish hammam, and an indoor mineral pool to a dry sauna are in a league of their own (spa treatments at own expense).

Make the most of your stay rewarding yourself with deluxe amenities like infinity pool, banquet hall, and fitness center. Enjoy a rich variety of local wines in a plush interior with a pleasant view of the sea of Galilee. Laze around the Sea of Galilee, the lowest freshwater lake in the world. Feel insightful by learning the history of the local area and the Christian site of Capernaum with the help of local guides. Enjoy dinner this evening at your own leisure at the hotel’s elegant restaurant.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 34km (21 miles), 2-4 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 213m (700ft)
Level 3, Approx. 38km (23 miles), 2-4 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 275m (900ft)
Level 4, Approx. 54km (33 miles), 2-4 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 762m (2500ft)

Your day begins with adventures along the fields and concludes with a spiritual experience of Jerusalem. After you nosh your breakfast, get ready to cycle to the south along the eastern seaboard of the Sea of Galilee. Start pedaling on a rising and falling terrain from the busy road to calming farm tracks along the Jordan border following the Jordan River. Pass through the banana, mango, and citrus plantations while you stare in wonder at the Gilad mountains of Jordan. Cover the extra miles if you wish by taking an arduous climb to take a high-altitude stance overlooking the beautiful valley. If your adrenaline rushes be ready an hour earlier to head for the week’s biggest climb from Galilee to the Golan, guided by the leaders.

Get stunned by the gripping wonders as you hike Galilee, the best course to observe the authentic marvels of Israel. Your readiness to descend the steep and windy routes will definitely pay off. Regardless of the path you pick, we all pedal up to our lunch destination, an access-by-permission-only road sitting along the border between Israel and Jordan. Delight in a dine at a farm-to-table restaurant, Rutenberg, once a check-post building along the historic Valley Railway extolled for its fine ingredients from local farmers and businesses made available amidst the region’s arid conditions. Right after enjoying gastronomic delights along with local wines in a pleasant atmosphere, we shuttle to Jerusalem, one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Check-in at the splendid and luxurious building of Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem and take a stroll to the walled city observe the old, and historically significant constructions, and soak in the sunset view of the Western Wall. Jerusalem, a mecca for history lovers, featuring dome-like structures, churches, and museums, will send you into raptures. Feel lucky to be present at the right time to observe the Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest when the sun begins to set. Get amused by the joyous scene of Jews praying, dancing, and singing in their traditional apparel near the western wall.

There’s more to the evening than simply observing the religious event. Relish a treat of a special Shabbat dinner in a local resident’s home! You can, however, opt to dine elsewhere in Jerusalem.

You’ll stay at the lavish Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, an amazing restored construction in the city’s heart. Enjoy the supreme amenities for the next two nights like an on-site restaurant, bars, pool, fitness center, spa, and more will admiring the royal interior and compelling exterior.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 45km (28 miles), 2-4 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 640m (2100ft)
Level 4, Approx. 70km (44 miles), 3-5 hours Biking, Elevation gain: 670m (2200ft)

Get ready to embrace the heavenly experience of biking and hiking around diverse scenes of nature. A brief morning shuttle will land you at the birthplace of John the Baptist, Ein Kerem. Begin your day in this village by touring the Church of John, the Baptist. Behold the altar, and other attractive architecture of the church along with the most impressive feature, the thanksgiving songs in 24 different languages displayed on its premises.

Later, commence your downhill bike ride and take in the views of forests on either side of the road offering you a chance to face a big climb. Climb or shuttle a 1500-foot ascend and go downhill again into the Ha’Ella Valley, one of the most popular destinations in Israel.

Spectate the euphoric flora and fauna of the valley, a peaceful place to resort even being quite closer to the city’s hustle. The nature of the valley changes with the changes in the seasons. In the spring, the chromatic beauty of the valley is noteworthy with flowers everywhere. In the fall, comes the season to harvest grapes. Get a buzz out of vineyards, turpentine trees, and wheat & barley fields.

Take a halt along a country road at a boutique winery and ingest a delicious meal cooked by a chef from Tel Aviv, Israel’s foodie capital. Arrive at your lodging for some leisure time and at the night, take a lovely stroll to enjoy contemporary cuisine at the local restaurant, Mona. Raise a toast to a week of fascinating Israeli adventures.

The concluding day lets you wander through the highlighting sites of your vacation in Israel. Set out on a morning guided walk taking you to several esteemed sites in Jerusalem.

To escape the horde of spectators, be an early morning explorer of the Dome of the Rock (or Temple Mount), a once-in-a-lifetime chance not available on most planned Jerusalem trips. Gape at the beautiful structure embellished with marble, mosaics, and metal plaques on its interior as well as exterior. Alternatively, seek leisure and later join the group for exploring the gripping sites including Via Dolorosa, a passage through the old Jerusalem, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher which is said to house the tomb of Jesus.

Explore the distinctive neighborhoods of the holy mainstay and also learn about the contemporary struggles related to Jerusalem’s religious diversity by interacting with the locals and guides.

Absorb the stirring insights of the 2,500 years of history and arrive back at Waldorf Astoria for one last luscious lunch of your tour before we wave goodbye to Israeli charm. Fill the memories of the week-long vacation to the mind’s brim and wave goodbye. The trip concludes with a shuttle from Waldorf Astoria to Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.