This past Passover we had the very great pleasure of at long last visiting the top of Mount Meron, the very mountain that comprises our stunning view. We driven past the turn off to the Mount Meron National Park countless times, as it is on the way from our home to Nahariya, where 2 of my boys have been in Yeshiva for the past 4 years between the two of them. But you know how life is, the wonders of nature that are closest to home somehow don't get the attention they deserve! And boy were we surprised, not only because we didn't even know that this amazing rain pool existed, but because it was truly one of the most special places I've had the great honor to visit. Something about the mountaintop location, the red soil, the fact that we were alone, well mostly (more on that later) and that it was a total surprise to boot. WOW, WOW, WOW. I can't wait to go back next winter when it will be fuller, or even this fall to see how it looks before the rain fall. In any case, if you have a chance, do visit this amazing spot and if you need help in advance finding it (because I have not seen it documented anywhere, even on the National Parks website) just ask, happy to help! For most of you, enjoy the photos, and it is my great pleasure to share with you our beloved land.
A truly picturesque location, and the red soil makes it very other-worldly and dramatic!
The line of rocks looks amazing, and I'm thinking that they were placed there to prevent vehicles from driving onto the dried up pond and destroying dormant eggs and ecology that sit quietly awaiting the rain.
A closer look......
I wanted to take that path to the next hill, but no one wanted to accompany me, next time!
A great spot for taking playful photos of the teens.
Ah yes, and hikers walking the Israel National Trail, the leg from Mount Meron to Naharriya.
A truly stunning spot, and at that time of year perfect hiking weather.
The view of neighboring agriculture, who needs Tuscany? (Okay, truthfully, me, but I know that because it is also Mediterranean, it might be similar...)
I was so pleased to see this sign, not something to expect in our tiny country as one might elsewhere.
Love this tree, not sure if it is a Carob tree or an Oak tree, need to start taking leaf samples home with me to identify! As you can see, you can arrive to the magical place in a 4 wheel drive vehicle, or even a regular vehicle, but I recommend parking on the paved road and walking the 7 or so minutes, much more special!
Of course if you'd like to arrive on horseback, go right ahead. Stay tuned for more about these horses and some dramatic horse photos! Here you can see that the pool has started to dry up. Hope you've enjoyed this little trip to the top of Mount Meron!