The impressive Crusader city of Akko is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the time of the Egyptian pharaohs. Walk through the city’s labyrinthine alleys and streets, exploring the remnants of Crusader, Muslim and Ottoman rule. Marvel at Massada, a remote hilltop fortress and palace complex which occupies the entire plateau, built by the biblical King Herod. The Golan Heights, the mountainous northern region, is one of the most beautiful parts of the country. The view becomes more magnificent the higher you climb with wonderful scenic, historic and archaeological treasures. The Dead Sea, flanked by mountains to the east and the hills of Jerusalem to the west, appears to be an alien landscape with white crystals of salt covering its shores. This vast stretch of water is the lowest point on earth and is believed to have been the home of at least five biblical cities including Sodom and Gomorrah. Few places have aroused such far-reaching religious and political fervour as Jerusalem. It is steeped in history, from the emotive Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Wailing Wall to the Holocaust Museum. In some places, time seems to have changed little since biblical days; in others, like Tel Aviv, life is much the same as in other fast-paced cities around the world with classy shops, a healthy café culture and a vibrant dining scene. With your own Vassa Holidays guide, you can delve into whatever aspect you like of this fascinating country, be it religious, historical, cultural, traditional or modern-day.

Walk the Via Dolorosa or Way of the Cross. Float in the Dead Sea and be pampered with some unique spa treatments. Dine out in vibrant Tel Aviv. Gaze over the beauty of the Golan Heights and explore the tunnels in Akko. Visit the Wailing or Western Wall and the Old City of Jerusalem.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL May-June: The Israel Festival of classical and world music and ballet. Weatherwise: The best time for mild weather is in spring, from (March to May) and autumn (September to November) although the weather is pleasant all year round.