5 Best Hotels in Lower Galilee, Israel

Located on the palm-shaded eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, this complex has everything from waterfront units with sunset-watching patios to spacious apartments with room for the whole family. All have fully equipped kitchenettes, and an on-site market means you can cook your own meals. About a mile north is Kibbutz Ein Gev, which has a fish restaurant, small harbor, and wagon-train ride.

Set in a lovely landscape, this 95-year-old kibbutz has beautiful cabins and suites to meet every need. Choose from the simply appointed standard rooms, family-friendly cabins with lofts and a shared yard, or ultraromantic luxury suites with private gardens and views of Mount Gilboa. Children love the kibbutz playground, the seasonal swimming pool, and petable cows and sheep in the dairy farm. Grown-ups appreciate the museum's permanent collection of Jewish art spanning many cultures and genres.

The rare lakeshore location is a big plus, and for some, so is the distance from the noisy downtown promenade. The marble lobby lounge is large and airy, though clusters of comfortable armchairs create intimacy. Guest rooms are tastefully furnished, if a bit small and slightly fraying; about two-thirds face the lake. Rooms on the two lower floors have private balconies. The hotel gives you free access to the adjacent water park, which has seven slides, a wave pool, and children's pool, making it arguably the most family-friendly hotel in town. The guests-only spa has a very private feel.

Cascading down a hillside, this all-inclusive, all-suites hotel boasts an unimpeded view of the lake. The spacious units sleep at least four, and the rate is the same up to that number. This classic vacation property, part of the international Leonardo chain, has a cheerful, upbeat style, an all-season team to engage kids, and a good health club to relax parents. Downtown is less than 10 minutes away by car or cab.

At the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee, this kibbutz has arguably the most enchanting view of all the properties around the lake. The furnishings are comfortable but not luxurious. Choose between regular guest rooms or spacious suites with living rooms, small bedrooms, kitchenettes, and patios. The food isn't memorable, but the facilities—extensive lawns, sandy beach, swimming pool near the shore—make it the best deal around. There is a smaller pool and play area for kids. Complete your trip by renting a bike and taking in the scenery while you ride.