Haifa offers different ways to experience the city and the coast: Nahal Lotem descends through Mediterranean woodland to the sea, while Aluf HaMadregot links historic stairways with panoramic views of the bay. In Bat Galim, you’ll also find a beach, a promenade, and opportunities for surfing and diving. This lets you choose whether to focus your stay on a hiking trail, a city walk, or the coast.

Forest Trail and Stairway Loop

Nahal Lotem is a seasonal stream that dries up and runs through Haifa from Gan HaEm in Carmel Center down to the Mediterranean near Park HaKacht. An easy-to-moderate urban hiking trail follows the stream through Mediterranean woodland. There are short and long route options. This makes it a good choice if you’re looking for a nature walk with a choice of route lengths.

The popular Aluf HaMadregot urban loop, also known as the Stairway Quarter, connects Carmel Center to the Lower City via historic stairways and viewpoints. From the viewpoints, you can enjoy panoramic views across the bay. Unlike Nahal Lotem, this route focuses on the steps, the views, and the link between the two parts of the city.

To choose between the routes, consider their different character: for Nahal Lotem, key points to keep in mind are the woodland section, its easy-to-moderate rating, and the short or long route options. Aluf HaMadregot, by contrast, is an urban loop with historic stairways and views of the bay. You can decide whether you prefer a hike through the woods or a loop with steps and viewpoints.

Bat Galim: Promenade and Beach

The long Arie Goral Promenade runs along the beach in the Bat Galim neighborhood. From there, you can see the sea and harbor; there are also benches, walking paths, and cycle paths. If you’d rather explore Haifa by the water, the promenade offers an alternative to the trails through the woods and over the stairways. You can experience the coast on foot or by bike along the designated paths.

At Bat Galim Beach, a surfing and diving club offers lessons and equipment rental. These add two specific activities to the walking and cycling routes by the water. If you plan to surf or dive, confirm the club’s current availability locally.

The lower station of the Haifa cable car is also on the Bat Galim Promenade. Tickets are available for a one-way or round trip. As operating details may change, check the latest operating and ticket information before your ride.

Choose the Focus of Your Stay

Surfing and diving can also be a focus, provided the club is currently available. Then compare specific accommodation locations according to your own priorities.

Discover more destinations: Harish, Kiryat Tiv'on, Atlit, HaBonim, Binyamina-Giv'at Ada, Kiryat Motzkin, Or Akiva, Tiv‘on

For the overview of the wider area: Haifa.