Birya Recreation Areas

The Birya-Meron Forest is the largest forest planted by man in the Galilee. The forest contains important historical sites such as the Birya Fortress and the ancient Nabratein Synagogue, springs, scenic lookouts and recreation areas. KKL-JNF paved a scenic road that crosses the entire length of the forest, from the area of Meron Junction to Hatzor HaGlilit.
 
These are the main recreation areas:
 
Birya Fortress (Metzudat Birya) Recreation Area – a large and spacious recreation area with picnic tables, some of which are wheelchair-accessible, spectacular observation points and disabled-accessible walking paths. Its restrooms are open only for groups and with prior coordination. You can arrange a visit to the Birya Fortress – one of the most exciting heritage sites in Israel. At the end of the period of the British Mandate, the British tried to prevent Jews from settling in Birya even though its land was the property of the KKL-JNF. The stubborn struggle that took place in Birya became a symbol of the right of the Jewish people to settle in its land.
 
To schedule a guided tour of the fortress: email Miriam Malka at miriamma@kkl.org.il
 
Ein Zeitim Recreation Area - the largest recreation area in the Birya Fores, it has many picnic tables, some of them wheelchair-accessible, drinking water and a children's playground. The site is located where the Birya Scenic road crosses Route 886. The Birya Forest Scenic road starts at the Meron Junction and ends at Hatzor HaGlilit.
 
Access to the Birya Forest: A. From Meron Junction B. From the Ein Zeitim-Dalton Junction (Route 886). C. From the entrance road to Amuka. D. From Hatzor HaGlilit.
Birya Recreation Areas. Photograph: Yakov Shkolnik, KKL-JNF Photo Archive