To start our tour, we will take a 45-minute drive north to the best-preserved example of Roman civilization, the ancient city of
Jerash, JO. This amazing site features soaring hilltop temples, handsome theaters, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains, and city walls pierced by towers and gates. The Jerash Festival, held in July every year, features folklore dances by local and international groups, ballet, concerts, plays, opera, popular singers and sales of traditional handicrafts.
After, we will head head to
Ajloun, JO to visit
Ajlun Castle, which was built in 1184 AD to control the iron mines of Ajloun and to deter the Franks from invading. After a stop at a local shrine in
Anjara, JO, we will eat a local lunch.
From there we will continue on to Umm Qais, JO, which commands a magnificent view over the northern Jordan Valley, the Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberias), the Yarmouk River Gorge, and the Golan Heights. Guests can take in the sights and then dine on the terrace of a fine restaurant with a breathtaking view of three countries.The Al-Himma therapeutic hot springs are located around 10 km north of Umm Qays and were once highly regarded by the Romans.