Maalot-Tarshiha

Maalot-Tarshiha is a city in the Upper Galilee of northern Israel, formed by the merger of the Jewish development town of Maalot and the Arab town of Tarshiha. With a population of approximately 22,000, it is a unique example of Jewish-Arab coexistence. The city sits at about 600 meters elevation in the hills of the Western Galilee, surrounded by forests and nature.

Tarshiha has ancient roots, while Maalot was established in 1957. The two were merged into a single municipality in 1963. The city is known for its multicultural character, its proximity to nature reserves, and the annual grape festival. The climate is pleasant in summer and cool in winter.

By Plane

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is approximately 140 km south. Haifa Airport (HFA) is about 60 km southwest.

By Train

There is no train station. The nearest stations are Karmiel (30 km) and Nahariya (40 km).

By Car / Road

From Haifa: approximately 60 km (1 hour) via Route 85. From Karmiel: approximately 30 km (30 min). From Nahariya: approximately 40 km (40 min). Bus services connect via Karmiel and Nahariya.

A car is recommended as the city is spread across hills. Walking within the old Tarshiha area is pleasant. Taxis are available locally.

• Old Tarshiha — The historic Arab quarter with stone houses, churches, and narrow alleys.

• Montfort Castle (8 km northwest) — A Crusader fortress ruin in a scenic gorge, accessible by hiking trail.

• Ein Ziv and surrounding nature reserves — Forested areas with hiking trails.

• Local churches — Several historic churches in Tarshiha reflecting the Christian Arab community.

• Hike to Montfort Castle through the scenic gorge

• Explore the Old Tarshiha quarter and its markets

• Visit nearby nature reserves and forest trails

• Attend the annual grape harvest festival (autumn)

• Walk the hills with views of the Galilee landscape

• Abu Christo (Tarshiha branch) — Famous for hummus and Middle Eastern food.
• Local bakeries in Tarshiha sell traditional Arab breads and pastries.
• Several restaurants serve traditional Galilean Arab cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
• The area is known for its grape and olive harvests.

Cafés in Tarshiha serve Arabic coffee and fresh juices. Local wines from Galilee wineries are available.

• Accommodation is limited within Maalot-Tarshiha itself.
• Budget: Kibbutz guesthouses in the area from ₪300.
• Most visitors stay in Nahariya or Karmiel for broader hotel options.

Tarshiha's market sells local produce, olive oil, and traditional goods. The town is known for local wineries and olive oil producers.

• Nahariya (40 km, 40 min) — Beach resort and gateway to Rosh HaNikra
• Karmiel (30 km, 30 min) — Regional hub with train connections
• Montfort Castle (8 km, 15 min + hike) — Crusader fortress in a scenic gorge
• Safed (50 km, 50 min) — Kabbalah center and artists' colony
• Acre (55 km, 1 hour) — UNESCO-listed Crusader port city