The gushing springs, waterfalls and lushly shaded streams of Banias Nature Reserve form one of the most beautiful – and popular – nature spots in Israel. The park has two entrances on Rte 99 that are about 3.5km (1½ hours on foot ) apart. The name ‘Banias’ derives from Pan, Greek god of the countryside, to whom the area was dedicated. Both entrances are served by Rama bus 58 from Kiryat Shmona to Majdal Shams.
Many sections of the park’s four trails (trail map provided) are shaded by oak, plane, fig and carob trees. Near the Banias Waterfall (lower) entrance, the Suspended Trail, a boardwalk cantilevered out over the rushing Banias (Hermon) Stream, gives a pretty good idea of what the Garden of Eden might look like. A bit upstream is the 10.5m Banias Waterfall, with its sheer, thundering drop into a deep pool. Tempting as it may look, swimming is prohibited.
Near the Banias Springs (upper) entrance, the excavated ruins of a palace complex built by Herod’s grandson, Agrippa II, can be seen on a 45 minute walking circuit.
