EL AL | Atmosphere

See the Sights I Eat, Travel, Enjoy

Glamping in the Golan The Ortal Glamping complex The launch of Kibbutz Ortal’s new glamping site in the Golan Heights made for the perfect excuse to head north and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and fun experiences local businesses have to offer. From cherry picking with the family to lantern-lit forest treks, and more / By Nava Marton

(and yes, there are bomb shelters onsite, three in total). The site is a stone’s throw from the kibbutz’s old hospitality complex where there’s a horse farm that offers horseback riding tours, and right beside it, you’ll find Tel Shifon Winery. The surrounding area includes beautiful Ein Mokesh, Mount Bental, and Odem Forest. Prices: NIS 800-1,200 per night per tent (sleeps 5). ortal.net/glamping-ortal Eat, Travel, Enjoy: Cherry-picking: Meshek Malul Meshek Malul in Moshav Sha’al offers cherry and forest fruit picking experiences (the fruit varieties vary depending on the season; we recommend checking ahead of time for specifics). Each group gets a basket and little boxes to place the fruit in, and you can eat as much as you like as you go along, as well as buy some to take home with you. There’s a cafeteria and lovely seating areas, as well as a campsite

Nestled among ancient oak, pine, and plane trees and the winding stone paths of beautiful Kibbutz Ortal in the Upper Golan Heights, lie the 30 luxury glamping tents of the brand-new Ortal Glamping complex. After months of hard work, carried out during the difficult months of war with a deep sense of resilience and undying Zionism, it is finally open for business and welcoming travelers from far and wide, here to experience this little slice of heaven in the heart of the Golan forests. Each tent has its own little deck with a seating area, and inside, it’s lovely and spacious. There’s a double bed, two singles, bedside tables, lighting, AC, and even a Wi-Fi connection. The design’s earthy tones confer a warm, rustic feel and an overall sense

of peace. The tents are suitable for couples, groups of friends, and families of up to three children (a travel crib can be supplied upon request). The tents were all imported from South Africa and include five premium ones with a private toilet and shower and two pull-out kids’ beds, ideal for a big family. Shared facilities include well-kept toilets and showers, (each tent has its own cubicles with personal lock), and a kitchen area equipped with worktops, electric hobs, sinks, and refrigerators (each tent has its own). There are picnic tables scattered all around, cozy seating areas in the shade, and campfire spots. The ongoing landscaping works will eventually fill the entire area with lush green grass and flower beds

22 ATMOSPHERE JULY 2025