Karmiel is unusual in having no ancient history of its own, being less than fifty years old. It is a good example though of how the authorities have had to plan for the return of Jews and Jewish refugees over the last century.
Starting from nothing but a water supply, the city has grown whilst still retaining its environmentally friendly attitude. It has been given several awards for this and sustainability. These days its key attraction is the annual music and dance festival over three days. Originally a small local affair, it now attracts performers from all over the world.
Karmiel Mini Guide
What can you Tell me About Karmiel?
Karmiel was one of the first planned Israeli towns when it was first constructed in the 1960s. After many protests, the city began to grow on land expropriated from local farmers. Since its early days it has grown considerably due to the prevalence of successful agricultural ventures in the area and the pride that its inhabitants take in the city has led to it winning the ‘Beautiful Israel’ prize. There is little of interest in the city itself but it is a good base for exploring the surrounding area and, in particular, the archaeologically important areas around Tiberias and Lake Galilee. The city is also known for its green credentials and the sustainability of its services.
How do I get to Karmiel?
The closest airport is Haifa International Airport but, despite the name, it only takes flights from Ovda and Eilat. The most accessible truly international airport to the city is Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion, some hours away. Trains to Haifa can get you to within a 45 minute bus journey of Karmiel or you may prefer to hire a car to get there independently.
What is There for Entertainment in Karmiel?
Apart from bars and coffee shops, there’s not much to entertain of an evening but once a year, for three days in July, the city and the surrounding area come alive to the sounds of the Karmiel Dance Festival. Originally a local festival, the doors have been opened to international dance competitors and now over twenty countries are represented. For the duration, the city is decorated with banners and pennants and impromptu dance spectacles break out all over the city, day and night. At other times of year, the city is content to remain a quiet backwater to the major cities of the coast.
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