One of 40: Which Israeli kibbutz was named a "Best Tourism Village"?
The UN World Tourism Organization is set to announce its list of top tourism destinations for 2026, featuring the Israeli kibbutz Kfar Masaryk.
An impressive international achievement for Israeli tourism: Kibbutz Kfar Masaryk in the Western Galilee is expected to be included next month in the prestigious list of "Best Tourism Villages in the World" for 2026 by the UN World Tourism Organization. The kibbutz is the only Israeli representative to reach the final list this year, alongside dozens of villages worldwide committed to a rural and authentic lifestyle.
The "Best Tourism Village" competition evaluates over 250 destinations annually, selecting only about 40. The goal is to leverage rural tourism as a growth engine while preserving heritage, culture, and the environment. Beyond prestige and branding, winners enjoy extensive international exposure in global UN campaigns. Kfar Masaryk joins previous Israeli winners, including Kfar Kama and Kibbutz Neot Smadar.
The kibbutz's path to this title began in 2023, when it reached the finals and entered an upgrade program supported by experts from the Ministry of Tourism and the Western Galilee Tourism Association. Established in 1938 as a "Tower and Stockade" settlement on the banks of the Naaman River, Kfar Masaryk maintains its authentic character, combining historical heritage, industry, agriculture, and a unique visitor center called "The Secret of the Kibbutz Miracle."
The official announcement is expected at the end of September. The kibbutz, which offers heritage tours, rural hospitality, and agricultural activities, expects this international recognition to turn the site into a major tourist attraction in the Western Galilee region.
