Hi,
As part of our military reserve we had a small trip over the Northern part of Israeli – Syrian border. We went to couple of the volcanoes of Golan heights, that helped to fill in the tour Atzva and I did about 4 years ago. 😃
Mount Bental
Mount Bental is 1165m above sea level, and the highest among Golan heights volcanoes you can get to: Mount Hermon is not considered part of Golan heights, and Mount Avital is not open to the public. The name Bental means Son of Tal (short name for mount Avital).
The view East from the top of Mount Bental. The border is along the agriculture area.
Looking South-East from the Bental
The wind turbines of Golan heights. Now there are more, but not enough (especially in Southern mount Hebron, like those I helped to set up)
Remains of the Syrian regime in Israel side – Officers’ barracks
The old city of Quneitra, that was conquered in six day war and was abandoned. The city is now in a buffer zone. Near it is the Quneitra crossing between Israel and Syria, used mainly by Druze.
The Syrian forces headquarters building (in Israel side of the building)
In the distance you can see the Syrian line of Volcanoes
The new city of Quneitra, built in Syria after six day war
Far in the distance is Mount Hermon
Mount Hermon in the distance (the left pick is highest point in Israel – 2224, the right pick is the highest point of mount Hermon, 2814m, and found in Syria)
The Northern lookout of the Bental, packed with tourists.
A view to the valley between mount Bental and mount Avital
A lonely ruined tank in the valley, like many in Golan Heights
Mount Kramim (1190m)
Mount Kramim (left) and mount Varda (right)
Mount Hermon in the distance
Closer look on the Israeli part of mount Hermon
Israeli posts on Mount Hermon. The right post is (almost) the highest point in Israel, 2224m. While the highest point is a bit east to it – 2236m.
Majdal Shams (the Sun Tower), The highest Druze village in Israel the. Just in the middle of the picture you can see the Hill of Screams. Relative Druze from Syria and Israel both stands of hills from both sides of the border and scream to each other. With all the video communication, it is still different to see someone on real.
Birkat Ram (High Pool), below mount Hermon. The most ancient sculpture made by human was found here
Full pic of Mount Hermon and Birkat Ram.
Take Care
Gad