Plan a trip to Zichron Yaakov

While the majority of rural settlements from the original Zionist settlement in Israel have been modernized, Zichron Ya'akov is one of the few which has retained an authentic atmosphere. The tranquil town has preserved the tradition and romance of the past while, at the same time, renewing itself gracefully.

The colony of Zichron Yaakov dates back to 1882, the beginning of the Zionist immigration to Israel. Romanian immigrants who settled there were destitute, as the rocky soil of Mount Carmel was difficult to farm. They turned to Baron Edmond de Rothschild, the philanthropist and winemaker, for help. He discovered that the rocky slopes were ideal for wine growing and established the colony as a winemaking town. He sent a professional team to build homes, public buildings, and welfare and medical services, and he had French farmers teach the immigrants how to plant vineyards. He built the Carmel Winery which became the largest in the country and the town was named for his father- Zichron, which means memorial, and Yaakov, which is Hebrew for the name Jacob.

As a result, Zichron Yaakov, one of the pioneer Jewish agricultural settlements, played an important role in the building of the country. One of its residents, Aharon Aaronson, laid the foundations for Israeli agricultural research, and the Teachers' Union was established there.

Zichron Yaakov is located on the southern part of the Carmel Ridge, high above the sea. It is a popular vacation destination for both Israelis and foreign tourists, and it is home to many charming cafes and restaurants as well as lodging. There are two museums in Zichron Yaakov- the First Aliyah Museum which relates the story of the first settlers of the town, and the NILI Museum, which tells about the courageous NILI spy network during World War I and their role in ending the Ottoman rule in Israel.

Zichron Yaakov is also a great base for other local sites, including the town of Baron Bat Shlomo, which has also managed to preserve some of its original character. The old Schwartzman dairy located there is a great rest stop with its delicious homemade cheeses, wine, and olives.

Ramat HaNadiv is on the outskirts of Zichron Yaakov and has beautiful gardens as well as the graves of Baron Edmond de Rothschild and his wife.

North of Zichron Yaakov is the Ein Hod artists' village where you can wander among the galleries, some of which are in the artists' houses, and enjoy the local restaurants and cafes. A small Arab village is nearby and is known for its authentic cuisine. If you’re looking for falafel or shawarma, stop in the Arab village of Fureidis at the mouth of the Iron Stream.

Two of the most beautiful beaches in Israel are located in close proximity to Zichron Yaakov: Dor Beach, with its beautiful bays and fascinating archaeological site, and the Bonim Beach.

End your visit at the Carmel Winery in Zichron Yaakov and raise a glass, “L’Chaim!” – “To Life!”