In Central Asia it is an accepted form of residence used for nomadic residence • In Israel it has become a symbol of tourism in the heart of nature • Between a tent and a B&B - get to know the yurt

• Awaken to the view of the Sea of ​​Galilee

  Photo: 

  The village at the end of the mountain

The sky is still closed, hotel prices are high and many vacationers are looking for interesting and inexpensive options. Get to know the yurt, or as it is called in various places in Central Asia - the yurt. It is a combination of a tent and a B&B, a common form of residence in countries such as Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and more. The yurt is built in a round shape, usually made of wood and fabric that covers the skeleton. The yurt was used as a residence for nomads, it is easy to disassemble and reassemble, and in some countries it is considered a symbol - a flag of Kyrgyzstan decorated with tunduk, one of the parts of the yurt, and it is a symbol that all the Kyrgyz people under the roof of the yurt.

Despite the social distance, you will be surprised to know that you can also relax in Yurt in Israel. On days when the corona is spreading, it is a wonderful option for those who want to relax in nature without getting close to other vacationers. We have collected for you some interesting options for accommodation in Yurt.

The village at the end of the mountain - Givat Yoav

In the village at the end of the mountain you can enjoy accommodation in a yurt, but no less than that - a spectacular view of the Golan Heights. The village itself serves as an observation point, and as soon as you arrive you will feel the nature enveloping you.

Inside the tent you will find a toilet and hot shower, storage and air conditioning corner. Those who choose, will be able to relax on comfortable futon mattresses in the large space of the room. Outside the room you can rest or eat in the covered seating area, and sip coffee on the ridge in front of the sunset.

What's around? The village is at the end of the mountain, but when it comes to hiking, it is right in the center and is a great base for them. Hikers will be able to trek from here to the Golan Trail that passes right next to the village. Those who choose to hike on wheels will find countless attractions and adventures, special natural phenomena, flowering typical of the area, waterfalls and flowing streams, intriguing archeology, artists' villages and fine wineries.

Prices: Between 550 and 700 shekels per family, there are 11 units in each of which can accommodate up to nine people, and a larger one of up to 13 people.

In the Galli Islands - Golan Heights

On a hill in the southern Golan Heights, in front of the mesmerizing views of the Sea of ​​Galilee, in the pastoral moshav Givat Yoav, is the Mongolian village "in the Galilee Islands, hospitality in nature". In the Mongolian village you will find family yurt tents. The meaning of the name in the Galilee Islands is nature in Mongolian. 

The Mongolian village was established by the residents of the moshav, farmers at heart, who took elements from the Mongolian way of life and added to their Israeli comfort. The Galli Islands cover about 15 dunams and offer 22 yurts divided into two accommodation options:

1. Yurt team: Accommodation of mattresses for groups or families of six to ten people. The yurt is equipped with mattresses, toilets, shower, air conditioning, a small refrigerator and a fully equipped coffee corner.

2. Yurt B&B: For couples and families of up to five people. Bioret double bed, pull-out armchairs and / or mattresses, toilet and shower, small refrigerator, fully equipped coffee corner and air conditioning.

Throughout the Mongolian village in the common areas you can enjoy magical seating areas, BBQ corners, bonfires and Poika complex. 

What's around? The location of the village is great for hiking in all seasons. The vineyards, wineries and stunning views that the Golan Heights has to offer are within easy reach of the Mongolian village. One of the wineries that is a short drive away is the Golan Heights Wineries. The tours at the winery vary and you can choose between a basic tour for NIS 20 to jeep tours of the vineyards that cost from NIS 950 for a couple to NIS 1,400 for seven people. 

Prices: In July and August and on holidays: NIS 750 per couple + NIS 88 per person (from the age of two), yurt team: NIS 140 per person, up to 10 people (minimum NIS 800).

Zohar in the grass - Ein HaBesor

In Moshav Ein HaBesor, on the banks of the Besor River, on a pastoral island of peace and quiet for lovers of pampering and romance, pampering yurts await you. In a conversation with the owner of the place, she says that "the yurt is a spacious and pampering space that leaves vacationers with memories of a special vacation, because when will we get to Mongolia?"

Inside the round building you will find a double bed, a large bathroom, a dining area, a living room with a basket of fruit and chocolate. The entire space is air conditioned. Biort also has a kitchenette suitable for preparing a light meal with a refrigerator with milk and cold water, electric stove, toaster oven, cutlery and cooking utensils. Outside a large terrace with a table for a meal in the shade of the trees.

"We have a spacious manicured lawn immersed in vegetation, hammocks for rest, barbecue area, children's play facilities and paddling pools. The yurt is suitable for couples looking for romance and a unique atmosphere, but a family with three children will also find a fun atmosphere for everyone together," adds place owner Zohar .

What's around? There are many cycling routes in the area. A nice walk along the Besor River reaches Eshkol Park, which is steeped in springs and pools. You can visit the ostrich farm, the Ze'ela Dairy, the salad trail and other attractions.

Prices: Starting at NIS 450 per couple in the middle of the week, a supplement for a child from the age of two - NIS 90. At the weekend - 550 shekels for a couple, extra for a child - 100 shekels. Breakfast price - NIS 120 per couple.