The Druse of the Upper Galilee

Taking advantage of their wonderful location, the Druse have developed a tourist infrastructure for the villages and their environs.

By ITSIK MAROM

MARCH 24, 2015 11:03

Mazar Mustafa Bader, the holy site near Hurfeish (photo credit: ITSIK MAROM) — Mazar Mustafa Bader, the holy site near Hurfeish

(photo credit: ITSIK MAROM)

High in the mountains of the Upper Galilee amid beautiful natural surroundings are three Druse villages: Beit Jann, Hurfeish and Peki’in. Spring has already arrived, heralded with the blossoming of many species of flowers. The area is ready and waiting for visitors to enjoy.

In addition to their unique culture, the Druse in Israel stand with us. Some 83 percent of the young men of these three villages serve in the army, mainly in combat units.

Taking advantage of their wonderful location, the Druse have developed a tourist infrastructure for the villages and their environs.

Just walking or driving in the villages will provide you with an opportunity to discover their beauty.

The main road will take you on a pleasant tour of the neighborhoods, which are very different from the Israeli ones you may be used to.

A growing number of accommodations have sprung up recently. Druse hospitality is second to none. The people are polite, generous, gentle and filled with goodwill. They will be only too glad to help you navigate your way through the villages and surrounding areas.

The first guest house, Al Jaramek, opened in 2000 in Beit Jann. It is on the highest spot in the area at 930 meters above sea level, which ensures pleasant temperatures even during the hot Israeli summer.

For an overnight stay in Hurfeish, enjoy Eastern elements in the interior design of Bint al Sultan (The Sultan’s Daughter). The complex of rooms for couples or families can accommodate up to 60 people. The rooms are complemented by scenic views of the Galilee mountains.

The Cave of Kings awaits you in Peki’in.

This is a suite for one family, where its non-uniform walls look as if they were carved out of a cave. You will feel like royalty in this cave because of all the modern amenities.

It also specializes in gluten-free dishes for its guests.

Another option in Peki’in is the youth hostel, which can serve as a base for a trip in the beautiful Upper Galilee region.

While you are visiting the villages, take the time to enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, such as the Mount Meron Reserve, which is always green and inviting.

Since the mountain trails are not suited for regular cars, you have the option of taking a guided jeep tour that will help you discover the hidden sites of the reserve.

When it comes to food, Druse dishes are exceptionally tasty, fresh and healthful. In addition, you can stop in at the new visitors’ center of Dr.

Dabour, a chemist who uses the healing properties of mountain herbs to add the spirit of nature to the tubes of cosmetics and health products.

There is much to explore on your own around the villages; but for a better understanding of the history and religious origins of the Druse, visit Mazar Mustafa Bader, the holy site near Hurfeish. Meeting Sheikh Kasem Bader is an experience in itself.

After a few days in this exciting area, you will get to know our Druse neighbors much better.

For more information, go to www.Jabel.org.il.