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Price range
From $0 per person
Upcoming Date
25 Nov 2020 - 25 Nov 2020
Location
Jerusalem Hills
Starting at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
Ending at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
Blurb right here
For wine lovers, and those of you who want to explore some of the sceneries of the Jerusalem Hills.

Visit some of the finest wineries in Israel, including one situated in a Monastery outside Bethlehem, established in 1885.
Gallery of Trip
Viticulture was always a central part of agriculture in the Middle East. The first vineyard in the history of mankind is attributed to Noah: "And Noah began to be an husbandman, and he planted a vineyard. And he drank of the wine, and was drunken..." (Genesis 9:20-21). Winegrowing was so widespread that the Fruit of the Vine was listed in the book of Deuteronomy as one of the Seven Species the Land of Israel (Deut 8:8). In almost every archeological site from pre-biblical time to the late Byzantine period - ancient wine press can be found. Under Muslim rule winemaking was limited (7-20th century AD, with a short revival during the Crusaders era on the 11-12th century AD). Modern Israeli wine industry was established by Baron Edmond de Rothchild, who supported the early Zionists in the 1880's, and founded the Carmel Winery - first of many in modern Israel.
Today Israeli wine is world-renowned with a highly efficient operation and the small, independent wineries retain a romantic, pioneering spirit.

Activities:

  • Seahorse Winery - The Seahorse winery is a small operation and is one of the better places to get to know the Judean Hills' terroir. Zeev Dunie, a filmmaker turned winemaker, has pioneered coaxing authentic Mediterranean flavors from unusual grapes.

  • A. Buffa Sparkling Wine - Meet the charming Andrea Buffa, the mind behind A. Buffa Sparkling Wines. A. Buffa produces premium white and rosé sparkling wines in Israel by the traditional method used in Champagne. Each bottle is unique and strictly handcrafted in every stage of the production making our wine an exclusive piece of craftmanship. Meet Andrea and taste his special wines.

  • Cremisan Winery - The Cremisan winery is dedicated to making wine from the land’s indigenous grape varieties. Situated near Bethlehem, the Cremisan Monastery was founded by Father Antonio Belloni, an Italian Catholic monk, in 1885. The meaning of the word is Kerem Zan, the vineyard of Zan. The most striking thing is the terraced vineyards and olive groves in the shadow of the Monastery and winery. Visit the winery, hear the history of the place, and taste the wines made from native vines.

FAQ

Is it safe to travel in Israel?

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Yes! It is safe for you and your family to travel in Israel. The Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority (PA) have a vested interest in encouraging tourism. As a registered tour operator we receive security updates from the Home Front office and on rare occasions adjust our itineraries on their recommendations

What's the weather like in Israel?

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In Israel, the northern and coastal areas enjoy a Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are hot and dry, while winters are cool and rainy. Down south and in the east, it's much drier. Rainfall usually comes between October and early May, with the most rain falling from December to February. It is always best to check the weather forecast beforehand. Spring (late March – May): Daytime temperatures are generally very pleasant - around 65-70°F, though it can still be hot in some areas (such as the Dead Sea and Eilat). There is a slight chance of rain, but it doesn't happen often. It can be cooler in the evenings in the North and Jerusalem - approximately 45°F. Summer (late May - late September): Temperatures are usually in the high 80s-90s. At this time of year, humidity will be highest in Tel Aviv and Tiberias. Other areas such as Jerusalem are drier and cooler, particularly at night. The desert, Masada and Eilat are extremely hot, but dry. It will almost never rain in the summer in Israel! Fall (late September – November): Same as Spring, but the rain can begin towards the end of the season. Winter (December - early March): Winter can be mild and sunny, or severe and overcast. There's often heavy rain and, in January and February, even snow at times! Temperatures will be in the 50s-60s most places, but in the 40s in Jerusalem and the Galilee hills, and cold at night. Pack layers and be prepared for anything! Weekly weather forecast

What is the situation with regard to COVID-19 in Israel?

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The rules regarding COVID-19 are fluid and change often, based on what is happening around the globe. We will continue to update you regarding current guidelines. Currently, the State of Israel does not require one to present a COVID-19 vaccination or recovery certificate, or a negative test result in order to enter or leave the country. It is advised that you check with your airline to confirm their requirements, as they may differ. As of October 9, it is no longer required to complete an entry form to enter Israel. Please note the following:
  • Health Insurance It is a condition of your booking through Via Sabra / Israel4All, as well as the State of Israel, that you obtain travel health insurance which includes coverage for COVID-19. Please note that you may be denied boarding of your flight to Israel if you cannot show proof of this when you check in for your flight.
  • Travel Insurance In addition, we strongly recommend that you purchase full travel insurance which includes coverage for ‘cancellation under any circumstances and for any reason’. It is recommended to purchase insurance as soon as the booking is made, as this coverage is often dependent on purchasing as close to the time of booking. You can purchase travel insurance through our partner, Travel Insured, an experienced company and one of the largest in the industry, through this link.
**Please note that if one tests positive for COVID-19 at any time during their stay in Israel, a minimum of a full 5 days of isolation is required, with the possibility of this being extended to a full 7 days.** We know that these rules and regulations can be confusing. Have questions? Click here to set up a time to talk with us. We can answer any questions you might have and then help you plan your trip! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates on travel policies.

Terms of Payment

Deposit is due immediately to secure the booking.

Balance for the trip is due no later than 60 days prior to the first day of trip. An invoice will be sent 90 days before the trip.

Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions here.

Please note: 

  • The itinerary is subject to change as a result of unforeseen changes from suppliers, weather, etc.
  • This proposal is valid for 1 week for private clients, and 10 days for groups. 

 

Cancellation Policy

Bookings can be cancelled within 48 hours AFTER REGISTRATION, with a full refund.

For cancellations made:

·         Up to 60 days prior to departure, any payments above the deposit towards the trip will be refunded. The deposit is non-refundable.

·         60-30 days prior to departure, 50% of the total tour cost per person will be refunded.

·         29-0 days prior to departure, the client will incur 100% of the cost of the tour.

All cancellation requests must be made in writing.

 

Starting at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
Ending at:
Tel Aviv / Jerusalem / Haifa
For wine lovers, and those of you who want to explore some of the sceneries of the Jerusalem Hills.
What’s Included
A private, licensed, English speaking tour guide and transportation v
Fees for sites and activities listed v
Testimonials
“Not only was the experience reflective of top-notch quality and superb attention to detail, you were treated like family. ”
Elizabeth
2019
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Early bird special - $200 off per person.

Available only between October 1-10, 2021!!

Registration for the trip will open on October 1. Fill out this form to be notified when registration for the trip opens, so you can take advantage of early bird special pricing!

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