Um Qais

We head north for around two hours driving to explore the Decapolis city of Um Qais, also known as Gadara. This dramatic black-basalt Roman city sits perched on a ridge, commanding an awe-inspiring view over the Sea of Galilee, Golan Heights, and the Jordan Valley. As you wander through the ancient ruins, you'll encounter well-preserved Roman remains alongside the remnants of a late 19th-century Ottoman village, providing a fascinating glimpse into both ancient and more recent history. Don't miss the opportunity to soak in the atmospheric ambiance of this historic site while marveling at the breathtaking panoramic vistas it offers.

Ajlun Castle (Qala'at ar-Rabad)

In nearby, we drive 1 hour onward through the Jordan Valley to Ajlun for a tour of the crusader era Saracen Castle built by the armies of Salah ad din. An important strategic fortress, helping to control the area between Damascus and Cairo, and one of the few castles built to defend against the Crusaders. Ajloun is remarkably well preserved and a prime example of Islamic military architecture of the 12th and 13th centuries. The castle occupies a commanding position on Jebel Auf with views over the countryside. In its heyday it had seven towers and was enclosed by a dry moat 15 metres deep. Inside it is a maze of interlinking rooms and tunnels. Although the castle was destroyed on several occasions by attacking forces and earthquakes, it was rebuilt each time and restoration work is ongoing.