Gamla Nature Reserve (גמלא) | Gamla Waterfall
Visiting Israel is an exciting adventure and the Gamla nature reserve is one of their most interesting places to visit. With many things to see and do, you and your family will not be at a loss in finding something for everyone. Where other nature reserves in the area offer a few things for the family to enjoy, the Gamla nature reserve has many options to choose from. The nature reserve is located in the middle of Golan Heights, which is a beautiful and spacious area with many different types of plant and wildlife to enjoy. The name Gamla is derived from the Hebrew word for “camel,” because of the rolling terrain and high hills that cover the area. Well known for exceptional views and a long interesting history this area is well loved and admired by villagers and visitors alike.
Historical value
Gamla was an ancient city where a well-known Roman siege took place during the first century. Gamla is known as the place of great “heroism,” where independence and a stand against the legions took place. Thousands were killed during this time, and many others took their own lives rather than being captured. The remains of the old city are still visible as you travel within the reserve. Deep excavations took place, which has proven a large battle was fought in the area where arrowheads and many other artifacts have been found. These artifacts and other evidence of the battles fought there are on display at the Golan Archaeological museum. There are also remains of an ancient synagogue that was present, and is known as the oldest synagogue in the world that is partially standing. A monument that has been erected represents the lives of Jewish settlers that died during the wars in Israel. You can also view the remains of an ancient village from the middle ages that was present during this era. Together these historical sites will walk you through a very troublous time of war, and life’s of the people who lived through it.
Nature value of Gamla Nature Reserve
The beauty of the land in the Gamla nature reserve is only out shined by the grace of the wild life that lives among the rugged terrain. The lush greenery and the wildflowers that cover the land offer exotic and breath taking sites while you spend time walking through the reserve. There is also wildlife that inhabits the area such as the Griffon vultures, which are a protected bird of prey that along with the Gazelles, can be seen rustling above and through the grasses. Eagles nest high above in the cliffs, but with luck and some good walking maneuvering, you will be able to view them from a distance, which is a great educational and rare sighting. The many wildlife species can be seen easily through the trails that help visitor and wildlife connect. The vultures that reside there are plentiful and can put on quite a show if they are busy searching for food. The sight of their large wingspan can be memorable as visitors follow the trails which are wheel chair accessible, and perch themselves on a viewing platform to watch the show.
A little farther out in the Gamla Nature Reserve is the tallest waterfalls in all of Israel. From the 170-foot waterfall, you will view a powerful and unique sight as the rushing water crashes at the bottom, splashing into a beautiful array of color. Along the trails to these great sights are multiple types of wildflowers and plant life that grow abundantly from the rich soil along the banks of the falls and streams.
Multiple visitors review on the Gamla nature reserve, states that it is one of the most interesting and beautiful places to visit. Holding a great amount of historical events, archeological sites, many nature trails, and wildlife to follow, it is considered a trip no one should miss when visiting Israel. The hiking in this nature reserve is rated easy and fun, as visitors find many sights to be above and beyond their expectations. The Gamla Nature Reserve is a place of beauty, history and an abundance of natural life.
