EL AL | Atmosphere

Nun is a lovely place to organize a picnic or relax between hikes. And if you walk further along the way beyond Ein Nun spring, you’ll be met with the beautiful Ayub waterfall. Other great spots nearby: Ayub waterfall, known by locals as the “hidden waterfall” and part of the walking trail that circles the Sea of Galilee. 03. Ein Izra’el Mount Gilboa This charming little water hole is nestled among eucalyptus groves and trees of every kind. The natural spring lies below ground and its waters flow through a concrete tunnel and into a huge pool built around a water reservoir from the times of the British Mandate. There are ‘Tarzan’ liana vines hanging from the trees above the pool that kids love to climb before jumping into the water which is about 1,5 meters deep. There’s a parking lot close by, with benches, picnic tables, drinking fountains, trees you can attach a hammock to, and even a spot for barbecues and space to set up a tent. Other great spots nearby: if you walk further down the path along the Navot stream, you’ll come across a lovely pastoral area with lush greenery, nooks to sit and relax in, and a lovely little wading pool to splash your feet about. 04. The Gedor Sea Reserve between Mikhmoret and Givat Olga This lovely, isolated seashore is not officially considered a bathing beach. It’s part of a national park and nature reserve that spreads across 2km between Olga beach and Mikhmoret and is accessible from either side. The Gedor Sea Reserve lies right by Tel Gedor and the beautiful coastal cliffs that soar 21 meters

Ein Izra'el I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

The Secret Waterfall I Photo: Ariela Aflalo

The Gador Sea Reserve I Photo: Yigal Ben Ari, The Israel Nature and Parks Authority

high, creating tiny bays and shallow water holes along the shoreline. It’s a delightful spot to enjoy a sunset, though be aware there is no shade in the summertime, or seating, so make sure you bring your own parasol and picnic attire. Other great spots nearby: Hadera stream and its lovely walking trails. 05. The ‘Secret Waterfall’ (aka the Sharonim waterfall), Hod HaSharon Not so secret for a while now, the Sharonim waterfall still goes by its old mystery-infused nickname. Situated where the Yarkon source springs and the Qana stream intertwine, and a short drive away from the Sharonim

mall, this place is a little slice of greenery and peace. The waterfall flows above an artificial dam and is surrounded by the eucalyptus trees and greenery of Wadi Qana. When you arrive and discover the waterfall peeking from out of the greenery, you get the immediate impulse to jump in the water. But entering the water is only allowed from the springs and not beyond the waterfall itself, since the waters flow directly into the Qana stream which is not fit to bathe in. The area is not particularly tended to, but there’s shade and lots of space for a picnic by the water.

Other great spots nearby: the Hod HaSharon eco-park with its birdwatching decks and charming lake. ■

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ATMOSPHERE MAY 2023