Israel Hotels

Enjoy Israel

Haifa itineraries for nature walks

Haifa travel guide

The tour itineraries enable you to enjoy nature, tour some of the green Haifa wadis and encounter rich flora, running water, fruit orchards and sites of historic interest. All itineraries are marked by the Nature Protection Society standard signposts.

AHUZA RIVER

This is a circular itinerary, beginning and ending at the junction of Freud and Vitkin Streets. The tour is suitable for all ages, all year round, although the last section towards Lachish Street is steep. Parking – on the streets nearby or indoor parking at the Horev Center. On route you will see diverse Carmel flora and enjoy the spectacular vista as you approach the small Ahuza Springs and the remaining orchards.

SIAH RIVER

Length of tour – about 3 hours. It is suitable for all ages, all year round. The walk begins near building no.12 on Lotus Street and ends at the beginning of the Siah River or at the ascent to the Kababir village. Main sites – Siah River Gorge, Ein Meshotetim, the ancient Carmelite ensemble, the 2 floor cave, Ein Siah and the orchard. The route passes through one of the most beautiful and important gorges in Haifa, which offers a wonderful combination of nature, rare and special flora, historical sites, running springs and panoramic views.

LOTEM RIVER

Length of tour – about 2 hours. It is suitable for all ages, all year round. Parking – along Hanassi Avenue, Dafna Street or Yefe Nof Street. There is also organised parking in the Panorama Center, accessible from Yefe Nof Street. The walk starts in Gan Ha’em and ends on Derech Hayam Street. Return to the Carmel Center by bus no. 3. The Lotem River is one of Haifa’s most beautiful natural sites. It has abundant flora and after only a few minutes walk you will feel in the heart of nature far from the bustle of the city. Enjoy the quiet and the chirping of the birds, get an impression of the rich flora and after a short rest, climb back to Gan Ha’em.

WALKING TOUR ITINERARIES CITY SITES

KABABIR AHMEDI VILLAGE

Length of tour – 30 minutes, including entrance to the mosque or about 2 hours including descent to the Siah riverbed, tour and return to the village. Parking-in Kababir. Main attractions – the village mosque and houses, panoramic views southwards from the public gardens. Kababir’s location on the western end of one of the most beautiful Carmel spurs is a convenient descent point to the Siah River for a tour of the springs, the orchards and the Carmelite Monastery. The climb back to the village is NOT an easy one.

CARMEL CENTER

Length of tour – about 60 minutes at a normal walking pace without entering sites. Parking – as for itinerary , start and ending points near the Kaiser Monument on Yefe Nof Street. The excursion includes a large choice of possibilities, with a delightful combination of nature and city panoramas and clean air, commerce, culture and entertainment centers. From the Kaiser Monument, turn left to Dafna Street and from there to Hanassi Avenue for a left turn to the Japanese Museum, on to the Museum of Prehistory on Hatishbi Street – to the Biological Institute and to the Zoo through Gan Ha’em (the starting point for itinerary no.3). From here continue to the Carmel center to the Rothschild Theater Complex and the nearby Mania Shohat Garden. Cross Moriah Avenue, return to the Carmel Center and stroll through the Panorama Shopping Mall to the Mane Katz Museum and back to the Kaiser Monument.

FROM THE SCULPTURE GARDENS TO THE BAHAI SHRINE

This is a short walking tour. Parking – on the 2nd of November Street, just below the Sculpture Gardens. After a stroll around the sculptures in the Garden, descend to Zionut Avenue to the Bahai Temple and Gardens. This is a short walk, no more than 500m. each way, but the return is a steep one.

STELLA MARIS, CAPE CARMEL

Parking at the site. This itinerary includes a tour of Cape Carmel sites with the option of descent by foot to Elijah’s Cave or by cablecar to the Bat Galim seafront promenade. Cape Carmel offers panoramic views, a visit to the Carmelite Monastery and a visit to the Sacred Heart Chapel (the short tour). From the Chapel there is a footpath. marked by the Nature Protection Society, to Elijah’s Cave. This longer tour is about 1 kilometer from the parking lot to the Cave.

HADAR

The starting and ending point is at the Haifa Museum. Length of itinerary – about 90 minutes normal walking, without entering the sites. Parking – either along Shabtai Levy Street, in front of the Haifa Museum or at one of the parking garages in nearby Levontin St. Start the tour at the Haifa Museum which includes three types of exhibitions: ancient and modern art, music and ethnology. Further on, climb the Dor Steps to Herzlia Street and then via the Ben Shemen Steps continue to the Technological Museum (Daniel & Mathilde Recanati Center) situated in the old Technion building. in the nearby garden, Albert Einstein planted a palm tree during his visit in Israel on February 11,1923. Continue along Jerusalem Street to the Binyamin Gardens, return along the Nordau Pedestrian Mall to Balfour Street and then along Bialik Street to the City Hall and the Remembrance Gardens overlooking Haifa Port, past Hanevi’im Tower and back to Haifa Museum through Shabtai Levy Street.

THE GERMAN COLONY

Length of tour is about 30 minutes. Park along Ben Gurion or Hameginim Avenues, close to the junction between the two as the starting and ending points of the tour is the north eastern corner. The tour runs along many mansions and sites which are milestones in the development of the German Colony: No.5 Meir Street – an educational institution built in 1870 by George David Hardog, one of the founders of the colony. Between 1888-1948 it was used as a German – Catholic Hospital. No.11 Ben Gurion Avernue – The People’s House built in 1869. Before reclaiming, the sea shore extended to the junction of Ha’atzmaut Road and Ben Gurion Ave and it is here that Kaiser Wilhelm II disembarked in 1898. No.12 Ben Gurion Avenue – The mansion of Yaakov Schumacher, who was the U.S. consul in the Templar days. No.16 Ben Gurion Avenue – The residence of Sir Laurence Oliphant. No.24 Ben Gurion Avenue – A typical courtyard from Templar days.

Israel's favorite Haifa - More options:

Haifa, Israel: A Cultural, Historic, and Natural Gem in the North

Haifa, the third-largest city in Israel, is a beautiful destination for travelers looking for a mix of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Located in the northern part of the country, Haifa is known for its picturesque beaches, stunning mountain views, and a diverse population that creates a unique blend of cultures. Botanica Haifa Resort is one of many hotels in the city. One of the most popular attractions in Haifa is the Baha'i Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a series of terraced gardens with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The gardens are a must-visit for any traveler to Haifa, as they offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and contemplation. Another top attraction in Haifa is the Stella Maris Monastery, located on the slopes of Mount Carmel. This historic site dates back to the 12th century and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land. Visitors can explore the monastery and take in the breathtaking views of the city and the sea from the top of the mountain. For history buffs, a visit to the National Maritime Museum is a must. This museum is located in the restored 18th-century mansion of the governor of the city and showcases the history of the Mediterranean Sea, with a focus on the history of the port of Haifa. Visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits, including ship models, paintings, and navigational instruments. If you're looking for a more cultural experience, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art is a unique attraction in Haifa. This museum is the only one of its kind in the Middle East and features a collection of over 7,000 Japanese art pieces, including paintings, ceramics, and textiles. The museum is located in a beautiful historic building that was once a private residence, and visitors can also enjoy the peaceful garden and tea room. Finally, no trip to Haifa would be complete without a visit to the city's bustling downtown area. This vibrant neighborhood is full of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Haifa Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of contemporary art from both Israeli and international artists. Visitors can also explore the bustling Carmel Market, where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and other local goods. In conclusion, Haifa is a unique travel destination that offers a blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's historic sites or soaking up the sun on the beach, Haifa has something for everyone. The Baha'i Gardens, Stella Maris Monastery, National Maritime Museum, Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art, and downtown area are all must-visit spots for any traveler to Haifa.

The renovated lower city of Haifa

The renovated lower city of Haifa is experiencing a bloom like the one the city never knew. Following the transformation of the neglected and crumbling Port Street into an activity of colleges and academic activities - the "Port Campus" and the renovation of the Turkish market complex that became a tourist gem, turning shops and enclosed spaces into a district of designers, artists and craftsmen, in the heart of the lower city that is changing its face and becoming a vibrant and colorful center of creation, culture, entertainment and commerce allows you to experience the young and lively rhythm of the city's nightlife. The ideal location is within walking distance of the German Colony, the "Center of the Eight" train station, the subway and a large number of bus lines that allow quick access to the city's sites, museums and beaches.

Tel Shekmona National Park - Excursion Route Suggestion

Discover the hidden treasures of Tel Shekmona National Park, a gem set against the stunning backdrop of Haifa's coastline. Ideal for families and romantic outings, this short and scenic route offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, suitable for all ages. Starting Point: The Sea and Lake Research Institute, Haifa End Point: Return to the starting point Historical Significance of Tel Shekmona Recent archaeological discoveries have propelled Tel Shekmona into the spotlight as a site of global historical importance. Prof. Ayelet Gilboa and Dr. Golan Shloy, from the Zinman Institute of Archaeology at the University of Haifa, have unveiled findings that position Tel Shekmona, once a modest seaside site on the southern edges of Haifa, as a pivotal center of ancient industry. Their research, published in the archaeological journal of Tel Aviv University, reveals that Tel Shekmona hosted the world’s largest and most productive scarlet dye factory around 3,000 years ago. This operation was a remarkable synergy of the administrative acumen of the biblical kingdom of Israel and the skilled Phoenician workers who specialized in the complex processes required to produce this valuable dye. Prof. Gilboa drew parallels between Tel Shekmona and Tel Dor during our discussion, noting their shared historical trajectories. Initially a small fishing village that also produced scarlet dye, Tel Shekmona evolved into a significant industrial facility. In contrast, Tel Dor served as a principal port city. Both sites fell under the control of the Kingdom of Israel in the ninth century B.C. According to Prof. Gilboa, the primary motive for the kingdom’s expansion into the Carmel coast was economic rather than territorial or maritime dominance. The control of crimson dye production centers, like Shekmona, was likely a strategic move to dominate this lucrative industry. These findings enrich our understanding of the historical and economic landscape of ancient Israel and highlight the sophisticated industrial activities that flourished under its influence. Route Description: Begin your journey at the iconic Sea and Lake Research Institute, located directly on the waterfront. This marks both the start and end of a leisurely route that explores the lesser-known beachfront and delves into the area’s rich history. Adjacent to Tel Shekmona is the expansive Rosh Carmel Sea Reserve, where the Carmel Ridge extends into the sea, forming a unique underwater landscape. The marine reserve, stretching from the institute to Nahal Lotem’s mouth and westward into the sea, covers about 50,000 dunams. It not only preserves historical sites from the ancient settlement of Shakmona but also showcases geological wonders like weathered dolomite and limestone, and a unique reef formed by tuber family snails. After departing from the Sea and Lake Research Institute, head south to reach the national park. Recently rejuvenated, Tel Shekmona was transformed from a neglected dumping ground into a beautifully landscaped area. The park now features native coastal vegetation and several protected species, enhancing its ecological value. Climb to the top of Tel Shakmona for a panoramic view of the sea and the city. The site, known historically as a-Smak ("Mound of the Fish"), offers a vista sprinkled with archaeological remains dating back to as early as the 15th century BC. The area was a hub during the Byzantine era, evidenced by church ruins and intricate mosaic floors uncovered in multiple archaeological digs. Continue your walk south along the boardwalk, passing by excavation sites and the hewn "hot tub" pool in the sea. Loop back north through Hecht Park and cross to Alex Garden. Near the garden, explore the ancient Shakmona caves, used historically for burial. The route concludes with a return to the Sea and Lake Research Institute. How to Reach: Access the starting point next to the Sea and Lake Research Institute via Hubert Humphrey Street in Haifa. Please Note: Swimming at the beach along this route is not permitted. Embark on this enlightening excursion at Tel Shekmona National Park, where history and nature meet the Mediterranean Sea.

Israel's favorite Haifa - More options

Israel Hotels - best hotel deals in Israel