This small kibbutz in northern Israel offers country lodging near the Lebanese border. Visitors can explore the Hula Reserve, Safed's synagogues, and experience rural life in Upper Galilee.
Malkia is a small kibbutz in northern Israel, situated near the Lebanese border. This Upper Galilee community offers country lodging for travelers who want to explore the region. From Malkia, you can visit the Hula Reserve, known for its diverse bird species, or wander through Safed's ancient synagogues and art galleries. The kibbutz provides a base for experiencing rural life in northern Israel while discovering the surrounding landscapes and historical sites.
Location and Geography of Malkia
Malkia sits in the Upper Galilee region of northern Israel, close to the Lebanese border. The kibbutz is under the jurisdiction of the Upper Galilee Regional Council and is near the city of Kiryat Shmona. Covering 0.376 square kilometers, Malkia has a population density of 1,018 people per square kilometer. Its elevated position provides views of the surrounding Galilee landscape.
Accommodation at Malkiya Travelers' Kibbutz Country Lodging
When visiting Malkia, you can stay at the Malkiya Travelers' Kibbutz Country Lodging. It has 32 rooms, including some accessible rooms for guests with disabilities (book these in advance). All rooms have free Wi-Fi. Outside, you'll find grassy areas with seating and barbecue facilities. In warmer months, you can use the on-site swimming pool. Your stay here puts you within easy reach of many regional points of interest.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
From Malkia, you can easily reach many sites in the Upper Galilee region. At the Hula Reserve, you can observe various bird species, including cranes and pelicans during migration seasons. In Safed, you can explore the artists' quarter and visit historical synagogues like the Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue. The Dishon Stream offers hiking trails along its banks, while Biriya Forest provides walking paths through pine and oak trees. About 20 kilometers away, Manara Cliff has cable car rides and activities like rappelling and a climbing wall. A 40-minute drive takes you to Mount Hermon, Israel's highest peak and only ski resort, where you can ski in winter or hike in summer.
A Brief History of Malkia
Six former Palmach soldiers established Malkia in March 1949, after their demobilization following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. They built the kibbutz on the sites of the former Arab villages of Qadas and al-Malkiyya. The name Malkia comes from al-Malkiyya, which was named after a biblical priestly family mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. From its small group of founders, Malkia has grown to a community of 445 residents as of 2022.
Recent Events and Current Situation
Recent events have affected Malkia and nearby areas. During the 2023 conflict between Hamas and Israel, Malkia and other northern Israeli border communities experienced attacks from Hezbollah and Palestinian factions based in Lebanon. This led to the evacuation of residents from these areas. Check the current security situation and travel advisories before planning your trip to Malkia.
Life in a Border Kibbutz
In Malkia, you can experience kibbutz life in a border region. The community continues the tradition of collective farming that defines the kibbutz movement. Despite its small size, Malkia has an almost equal number of men and women. The median age of 26.3 years indicates a relatively young community. By visiting Malkia, you can learn about this form of communal living and how it adapts to life near an international border.
