Gan HaShlosha
גן השלוש
A natural pool fed by warm springs surrounded by lush gardens and palm trees in an oasis setting within the Jordan Valley. It's perfect for swimming, picnicking, and experiencing a serene tropical-like environment year-round.
Things to do
- Swimming in the Warm Pool — Immerse yourself in the naturally heated spring-fed pool (28°C year-round) that forms the heart of the park, offering refreshing swims in crystal-clear turquoise waters.
- Picnicking Among Palm Groves — Spread out a meal beneath towering date palms and lush vegetation that create a tropical oasis atmosphere perfect for families and groups.
- Hiking the Surrounding Trails — Explore marked walking paths through the Jordan Valley landscape that wind past the springs and offer views of the valley and nearby cliffs.
- Waterfall Photography — Capture the small cascading waterfall created by the spring discharge, particularly photogenic in morning light as water flows into the main pool.
- Botanical Garden Exploration — Stroll through the cultivated gardens showcasing native plants and species adapted to the Jordan Valley's semi-arid climate and microclimate.
- Bird Watching — Observe migratory and resident bird species attracted to the lush spring-fed environment, particularly during spring and autumn migration seasons.
Food to try
- Freshly Caught Fish from the Springs — Local restaurants near the park prepare tilapia and other freshwater fish caught from or raised in the spring waters, often grilled simply with herbs and lemon.
- Picnic Salads with Local Produce — Pack or purchase fresh Israeli salads featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs grown in the fertile oasis soil, dressed with olive oil and za'atar.
- Date-Based Desserts — Sample ma'amoul cookies and date paste treats made from dates harvested from the abundant palm trees throughout the valley.
- Hummus at Nearby Kibbutz Dining — Visit the kibbutz dining hall or nearby Shaar HaGolan restaurant for creamy hummus topped with pine nuts and olive oil, served with warm pita bread.
Local customs & good to know
- Respect Water and Spring Conservation — The springs are a precious resource in the arid valley; avoid using soap or chemicals in the water and follow all park conservation guidelines to protect this delicate ecosystem.
- Modest Swim Attire Appreciated — While not strictly enforced, many Israeli visitors wear conservative swimwear; families and religious visitors are common, so modest bathing suits are more culturally appropriate.
- Peak Season and Visitor Management — Weekends and holidays draw large crowds; arrive early in the day or visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience, and check closure dates in advance.
- Kibbutz History Context — The site is part of Kibbutz Gan HaShlosha, one of Israel's collective communities; understanding the kibbutz movement's role in Israeli settlement adds cultural depth to your visit.