Tsfat in one of the few places in Israel that is blessed with four seasons. Perched at 900 metres, making it the highest city in Israel, Tsfat’s winters and summers tend to be more extreme than the rest of the country. Let’s take a look at the winter.
Yes, winter means rain in Tsfat. It can also mean fog, snow and wind. And…it can mean warmth and sunshine, so be prepared for anything!
The rain falls intermittently between December and February so if you are planning a trip, dress for winter and bring a raincoat.
If you are staying at Villa Tiferet, there is heating in all of the rooms and a fireplace stocked with wood in the living room. There is nothing like relaxing by the cozy fireside at Villa Tiferet, sinking into the couches and watching the reflection of the flames flickering across the stone dome above.
Winter means hot homemade soups in the restaurants on the midrechov and cradling steaming cappuccinos. It gives you time to wander through the galleries and old synagogues without the crowds.
If you have a few dry days, try hiking. The first rains awaken the plants and within days, the anemones, cyclamen, irises, lupines, daisies and narcissi poke out of rocks and carpet the surrounding valleys.
Another great winter pastime is visiting the local wineries and sampling the newest vintages. As fewer tourists travel in the winter, the wine makers generally have more time to sit and chat and sip. There are also a few chocolate factories up north, so if you have a car and a sweet tooth, venture forth!
Visit Tsfat in the winter, be it for a Shabbat or weekday visit. You may feel as if you are in Tuscany, or, it if snows, Canada! It is a special opportunity not to be missed. And since winter in Israel is only 10 weeks long, it could be easy to miss!
If you decide to come up, please stay at Villa Tiferet and snuggle up by the fireside!