Plizio Visual Lab
Lake Ram
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Lake Ram, also referred to as Birket Ram, is a prominent crater lake located in the northeastern Golan Heights near the Druze village of Mas'ade. Geologically, it is classified as a maar, created by a powerful phreatomagmatic explosion that occurred when rising magma encountered groundwater. Situated at an elevation of 940 meters above sea level, the lake spans approximately 800 meters in diameter and maintains a nearly circular shape. It lacks any surface outlets, relying instead on direct rainfall and subterranean springs to maintain its depth, which reaches up to 10 meters. The surrounding landscape is dominated by fertile volcanic soil, utilized by the local Druze population for extensive apple and cherry orchards. The lake gained international archaeological fame following the discovery of the 'Venus of Berekhat Ram,' a stone figurine estimated to be between 230,000 and 800,000 years old, representing one of the earliest examples of symbolic art. Currently, the lake serves as a vital irrigation reservoir and a scenic landmark at the southern foot of Mount Hermon.
- Location: Israel
- Top sights: Mt. Ram · Nabi Yafuri · Har Kramim
- Nearby: Metula (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 22 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 15 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 61 | 54 | 28 | 16 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 29 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The highly scenic crater lake is typically approached via scenic, winding panoramic roads safely positioned in the northern Golan Heights, usually starting directly from or passing through nearby Druze villages.
Best season
Spring is particularly and breathtakingly scenic when the many surrounding fruit orchards are in absolute full bloom, although the autumn months also consistently offer very pleasant, wonderfully mild weather for exploring.
Terrain & paths
The immediate surroundings feature an interesting mix of entirely unpaved dirt tracks and old agricultural paths circling the lake, which can frequently become extremely muddy and noticeably slippery after heavy rains.
What to bring
Sturdy and completely waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for safely navigating the highly uneven natural paths, along with a good quality camera to perfectly capture the totally unique volcanic landscape.
Parking
Informal but generally safe parking spots are usually found well pulled over along the roadside viewpoints or extremely close to the beginnings of the wide agricultural tracks leading safely down toward the water.
Safety
Visitors should generally always stick to the much wider, clearly established paths, absolutely respecting the private agricultural orchards, and completely avoid dangerous swimming in the deep, unmonitored crater waters.
Time needed
Roughly one to a maximum of two hours is typically completely sufficient to very comfortably walk around the accessible panoramic viewpoints, peacefully take photographs, and heavily appreciate the incredibly serene atmosphere.
Geography
Facts
- The lake is situated at an elevation of 940 meters above sea level.
- It measures approximately 800 meters across in a circular basin.
- Geologists identify the formation as a maar rather than a caldera.
- The Venus of Berekhat Ram was discovered here in 1981.
- The stone figurine is considered one of the world's oldest art pieces.
- The lake is a primary source of irrigation for local cherry orchards.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Ram (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How was the lake formed?
It is a maar, a water-filled volcanic crater located in the Golan Heights.
Is swimming allowed in the lake?
Swimming is common in some spots, but there are no official lifeguards on duty.
Is there boat rental?
Yes, pedal boats or kayaks are often available for rent, especially in summer.
Can you walk around the lake?
Yes, there is a circular path offering nice views of the lake and surrounding orchards.
What is nearby to visit?
Mount Hermon and the Druze villages of Mas'ade and Majdal Shams are very close by.
Lake Ram: where is it located?
Lake Ram is located in Israel.
Lake Ram: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mt. Ram, Nabi Yafuri, Har Kramim.
Lake Ram: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Lake Ram: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Ram, also referred to as Birket Ram, is a prominent crater lake located in the northeastern Golan Heights near the Druze village of Mas'ade.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Israel →
Nearby cities
Nazareth
Nazareth is the largest Arab city in Israel and holds immense significance as a Christian pilgrimage site.
Nahariya
Nahariya is the northernmost coastal city in Israel, serving as a popular summer resort destination.
Afula
Afula is often known as the Capital of the Jezreel Valley, located in the Northern District of Israel.
Tiberias
Tiberias is an ancient city on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, considered one of Judaism's Four Holy Cities.
Safed (Tzfat)
Safed is a high-altitude city in Galilee, known as the center of Jewish mysticism and for its picturesque artist colony.
Beit Jann
A high-altitude Druze village in northern Israel, famous for warm hospitality and a cool mountain climate.
Katzrin
The unofficial capital of the Golan Heights, famous for its ancient park and world-class wineries.
Rosh Pinna
Rosh Pinna is a charming historical settlement in Upper Galilee, known for its restored stone houses and relaxed atmosphere.
Metula
Israel's northernmost town, famous for its picturesque fruit orchards and cool mountain air.
Gesher HaZiv
An idyllic kibbutz in Galilee, known for its proximity to the Achziv National Park and spectacular blue lagoons.
Rosh HaNikra
A spectacular natural wonder on Israel's northernmost coast, famous for its white chalk cliffs and sea grottoes.
History & landmarks
Mount of Beatitudes
The Mount of Beatitudes on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee is the traditional site where Jesus is believed to have delivered his…
Mount Tabor
The distinctive Mount Tabor rises isolated from the Jezreel Valley and is considered in Christian tradition to be the site of the Transfi…
Basilica of the Annunciation
The Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth stands over the site where Catholic tradition holds that the Angel Gabriel announced the bir…
Nature
More places
Akko Old City Walls
Impressive fortifications surrounding the ancient port city of Acre.
Nimrod Fortress
A medieval Ayyubid castle situated on the southern slopes of Mount Hermon.
🗺️
Mount Hermon
Mount Hermon is the highest mountain range in Israel and features the country's only ski resort during the winter.
Banias Nature Reserve
Banias is known for its abundant springs, ancient ruins, and a stunning waterfall on the slopes of Mount Hermon.
Mount Bental
An extinct volcano in the northern Golan Heights, offering sweeping views across the Syrian border.
Snir Stream Nature Reserve
The Snir Stream (Hasbani) features flowing water year-round and is surrounded by dense, jungle-like forests.
Agamon Hula
A major wetland and birdwatching center visited by thousands of migratory birds annually.
Hula Nature Reserve
The Hula Valley is a globally significant wetland that serves as a resting spot for millions of migratory birds traveling between Europe …