9 Best Hotels in Upper Galilee and the Golan, Israel

With a splendid view of the Sea of Galilee, this colonial-style hotel south of Rosh Pina specializes in pampering its clients. Its spa features such treatments as the olive-branch massage and other rubdowns with oils distilled from wildflowers. The organic restaurant is known throughout the region, and the lobby has an herbal-tea corner open around the clock. A gallery sells local artworks, and a gift shop offers homemade breads, cheese, and other products. About half the accommodations are suites with their own whirlpool tubs.

Nestled in the natural beauty of the Golan Heights is this gem of a hotel with an escapist feel, perfectly designed to complement the magical hilltop landscape. The exquisite Bauhaus design in a number of rooms pay homage to the building's origins as a French Customs House from the early 20th century.

Families with active kids will enjoy the enclosed green grounds of this hotel surrounded by forest. A basketball court, minigolf, and a large swimming pool can fill the kids' days, while adults can visit the spa for a soothing massage or a dip in the hammam. Nightly live entertainment and bonfires can cap off a full day of activities and kosher buffet meals. Book a room in one of the newer wings for a more luxurious experience.

The waters of the Hermon Stream flow through a glass-covered channel in the lobby of this laid-back lodging. It's the one place where nature has been corralled, as everywhere else you look you'll see the snow-covered peaks of Mount Hermon or the rolling Naftali Hills. Although the rooms are simply decorated, they are perfect for families. There's a health and wellness center with indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a soothing spa. Kayaking and walking tours are available.

At the entrance to the Hula Lake Nature Reserve, the Hotel Galilion is a luxurious haven for bird-watchers. Guests can book spa treatments (or include them in the rate), relax poolside with a drink from the pool bar, and enjoy abundant buffet dinners and breakfasts in the dining hall. The two-story buildings are in desert-stone yellow, and the guest rooms are done in warm red and brown hues and have photos of migrating birds. For stunning views, request a room with a balcony facing Mount Hermon.

Part of Kibbutz Kfar Blum, this hotel in the Upper Hula Valley has spacious and elegantly appointed rooms. The spa offers unusual experiences, such as a rain cave and a Turkish-style steam bath. An Olympic-size swimming pool is a great place to relax after a day of exploring. The kibbutz offers kayaking on the Jordan River and a chamber-music festival every summer. It's 8 km (5 miles) southeast of Kiryat Shmona.

The stained-glass windows, wood furniture, and handwoven rugs make it hard to guess that this charming small boutique hotel used to house livestock. The Fridman family has lived here since 1876, and now operates a hotel, wine bar, and restaurant on the premises. With arched ceilings and stone walls, the rooms are rustic and subtly luxurious, and the food is lovingly prepared.

High in the foothills of Golan Heights, this hotel is only a few minutes from good beaches and a water park. Its main building has comfortable guest rooms with private balconies and fabulous lake views. The deluxe wood chalets have whirlpool tubs, saunas, entertainment systems, and other perks. Free guided tours of the area are available in summer.

Built 200 years ago for a Turkish sultan, this spectacular castle has been transformed into a hotel with a reputation for charming rooms. The stone-walled rooms, many of which have vaulted ceilings, are both comfortable and rustic; the former stables serve as a dining room. A third of the rooms have mountain views.