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Mount Bental
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Mountain
Mount Bental is a prominent extinct volcanic cinder cone in the northeastern Golan Heights, reaching an elevation of 1,165 meters. Together with its twin peak, Mount Avital, it forms a horseshoe-shaped volcanic crater that dominates the surrounding plateau. Its high altitude provides a strategic vantage point with commanding views deep into Syria, overlooking the abandoned city of Quneitra and the majestic Mount Hermon to the north. In modern Israeli history, Mount Bental is famous for its proximity to the Valley of Tears, the site of one of the largest tank battles in history during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Today, the summit is an educational and tourist site, featuring well-preserved IDF bunkers and trenches that are open to the public. The mount is also home to Café Anan, the highest coffee shop in Israel, and a series of whimsical iron sculptures made from war scrap by Dutch-Israeli artist Joop de Jong. This blend of dramatic military history, fascinating volcanic geology, and spectacular panoramas makes Mount Bental location for anyone exploring the Golan region.
- Location: Israel
- Top sights: Oz 77 · Har Bnei Rasan · Tzurman
- Nearby: Katzrin (16 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
Located in the northern Golan Heights, the peak is reachable by car via Road 98 and a narrow, winding paved access road that leads directly to the summit area.
Best season
Spring has blooming wildflowers and clear views, while winter can bring chilly winds and occasional snow at this high altitude, providing a unique alpine atmosphere.
Terrain & paths
As an extinct volcano, the site features volcanic rock and craters; the summit area is relatively flat with developed paths, bunkers, and viewing platforms for visitors.
What to bring
Bring a warm jacket even in summer as the summit is often much cooler than the valleys; sturdy shoes are helpful if you plan to explore the surrounding volcanic trails.
Parking
A paved parking lot is located right at the summit next to the coffee shop and bunkers, though it can fill up quickly during weekends and holidays.
Safety
Stay within the marked tourist areas and do not cross fences, as old minefields from past conflicts are still present in the broader Golan Heights area.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts 1-2 hours, enough time to enjoy the panoramic views of Syria and Mount Hermon, explore the bunkers, and have a coffee at the summit.
Geography
Facts
- Mount Bental stands at 1,165 meters in the northern Golan Heights.
- The mountain overlooks the Valley of Tears tank battle site from 1973.
- It is one of the easiest volcanic peaks to access by car in Israel.
- The sculptures on the mountain are made from recycled military hardware.
- Mount Bental offers a 360-degree view of the Israeli-Syrian border area.
- The last volcanic eruption in the Golan occurred about 100,000 years ago.
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.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mount Bental (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Mount Bental located?
It is located in the northern part of the Golan Heights, near the Syrian border.
What can you visit at the summit?
A former Israeli army bunker open to visitors, and artistic sculptures.
Are there any dining options?
Yes, the 'Coffee Anan' café is famous for being the highest café in Israel.
How is the view from Mount Bental?
You have an excellent view of Syria, Mount Hermon, and the Quneitra Valley.
How high is the mountain?
Mount Bental is about 1171 meters high and is of volcanic origin.
Mount Bental: where is it located?
Mount Bental is located in Israel.
Mount Bental: what is there to see?
Highlights include Oz 77, Har Bnei Rasan, Tzurman.
Mount Bental: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Mount Bental: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Bental is a prominent extinct volcanic cinder cone in the northeastern Golan Heights, reaching an elevation of 1,165 meters.
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