Mount Hermon – Israel’s Highest Mountain & Ski Resort

Have you ever been in the mountains? Try to recall how you felt at that moment – most likely peace, freedom, and calm. You are far above everyday life, looking down on the world from a different perspective. This same feeling awaits visitors to Mount Hermon, one of Israel’s most unique natural destinations.

Mount Hermon is a mountain massif located at the border of Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. However, the most developed and accessible part for visitors is on the Israeli side, where a modern mountain tourism and ski resort operates year-round. Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable place.

Geographic and Historical Overview of Mount Hermon

Mount Hermon is also known by its Arabic name Jabal ash-Sheikh (“Mountain of the Elder”). It belongs to the Anti-Lebanon mountain range, which stretches from southwest to northeast.

  • Maximum elevation: up to 2,814 meters above sea level
  • Highest mountain in Israel
  • Length of the Anti-Lebanon range: approx. 60 km

One of it’s most important natural features is its role as a major water source. Meltwater from Mount Hermon feeds the Jordan River system, including the Dan, Banias, and Hasbani rivers, making it crucial for Israel’s water supply.

From a geopolitical perspective, Mount Hermon lies within Syrian territory, borders Lebanon, and transitions southward into the Golan Heights. Following the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel gained control over the southern slopes of Mount Hermon. In 1981, Israel applied its law to this territory. Due to its strategic position, it played a significant military role for many years.

 

 

Under Israeli Administration

After gaining control of the southern section of Mount Hermon, Israel developed it into a major winter and summer tourism center, despite controlling only about 7% of the total massif.

  • Israel’s only ski resort
  • The only place in the country with reliable snowfall
  • A popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and alpine activities

In winter, it is the sole location in Israel where visitors can experience real snow sports. Even those not interested in skiing will find plenty of attractions, including panoramic viewpoints, cable cars, cafés, and guided tours. Large areas of Mount Hermon are designated as a protected nature reserve, preserving its unique flora and fauna.

Mount Hermon in the Biblical and Spiritual Context

Mount Hermon holds deep biblical and spiritual significance. It is mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament, often as a site of military conflicts between Israelites and Amorites.

Some scholars associate Mount Hermon with descriptions found in the Book of Enoch, while others believe it may have been the location of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ – though Mount Tabor is another widely accepted candidate. Regardless of interpretation, it remains a place of profound spiritual symbolism in Judeo-Christian tradition.

Why Visit Mount Hermon?

If you are planning a trip to Israel, Mount Hermon deserves a place on your itinerary – in every season.

❄️ Winter

  • Skiing and snowboarding on marked slopes
  • Sledding areas for families and children
  • Scenic cable car rides to high-altitude viewpoints
  • Snow play areas for non-skiers

The ski area includes trails totaling up to 50 km. Beginners can take lessons with certified instructors, while children have dedicated play zones and safe sledding slopes.

More information about skiing can be found on the official website

🌿 Summer

In summer, Mount Hermon offers a refreshing escape from Israel’s heat:

  • Cool alpine air
  • Cable car rides with panoramic views
  • Mountain hiking and nature observation
  • Alpine coaster ride (up to 1 km long, speeds up to 45 km/h)

Restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and observation decks make it an excellent destination for families and older travelers as well.

History of the Mount Hermon Resort

The Mount Hermon tourist resort was officially established in 1971, following the construction of the first cable car. Initially, visitor numbers were modest, but over time it became one of Israel’s most visited attractions.

  • Winter visitors: up to 300,000 per season
  • Summer visitors: approx. 40,000
  • Peak daily attendance: up to 12,000 visitors

Continuous investment has modernized infrastructure, lifts, safety systems, and visitor facilities. Today, it is considered a flagship mountain resort in Israel.

The mountain is also rich in biodiversity:

  • Around 250 unique plant species, many found only here
  • Cypress trees are a symbol of the area
  • Wildlife includes leopards, bears (historically), foxes, birds of prey, and mountain mammals

Ancient History

Mount Hermon has been inhabited since biblical times, serving as Israel’s northern frontier. During the Hellenistic period, it became part of the Kingdom of Chalcis. Later, control shifted between Jewish leaders, Egyptian rulers (including Cleopatra), and the Roman Empire. Emperor Augustus eventually granted the region to King Herod.

Archaeological findings show:

  • Jewish and multiethnic settlements
  • Stone houses with double walls for insulation
  • Terraced agriculture for grapes, spices, and gardens
  • Extensive road networks up to 4 meters wide

Snow and ice from Mount Hermon were historically harvested and sold across Israel, Syria, and Egypt – a surprisingly profitable trade in ancient times.

By the 19th century, population declined due to interethnic conflicts. After World War I, the area fell under French mandate, later divided between Syria and Lebanon, before events of the modern era shaped its current status.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit:
    • Winter (Jan–Mar) for snow.
    • Summer (Jun–Sep) for cool weather and views.
  • How to get there:
    Mount is located in Northern Israel, near the Golan Heights. Access is typically via organized tours or private car.
  • Who should visit:
    Families, adventure seekers, religious travelers, and anyone looking to escape Israel’s summer heat.