Deep in the forest of Nahal Kziv in the western Galilee, on a narrow ridge above a wooded gorge, stand the ruins of Montfort Castle. Built by Crusader nobles in the 12th century and later sold to the Teutonic Knights, Montfort is one of the most atmospheric castle ruins in Israel. Getting there requires a hike through some of the most beautiful woodland in the country, which means the castle rewards effort and discourages tour buses. That is part of its appeal.
The Teutonic Knights’ Headquarters
Montfort was purchased by the Teutonic Knights in 1220 and served as their administrative headquarters in the Holy Land. Unlike the coastal fortresses that were designed for military domination, Montfort was a retreat, a place where the order stored its archives, treasury, and administrative records away from the political intrigues of Akko.
The castle fell to the Mamluk sultan Baybars in 1271, and the Teutonic Knights were allowed to leave with their archives. The Mamluks partially destroyed the fortifications, and the castle was never rebuilt.
The Hike
Reaching Montfort requires a hike of about 45 minutes through the Nahal Kziv nature reserve. The trail descends into a gorge and climbs to the castle ridge, passing through Mediterranean forest of oak, carob, and pine. The hike is moderate and well-marked, and the reward, emerging from the trees to find a ruined Crusader castle on a ridge above a wooded valley, is one of the best moments in Israeli hiking.
Visit with Hoshen Tours
Montfort combines beautifully with Yehi’am Fortress and Akko for a Crusader-themed day in the western Galilee. Hoshen Tours knows the trails and the stories that bring these stones to life.