The Sataf Nature Trail and other Romantic Walks in Jerusalem
The Sataf Nature Trail is one of the highlights of the forest and hills on the outskirts of Jerusalem. But it is not just one trail. Several different routes wind through pine forests, rocky hills, hidden caves, ancient ruins and lush springs in this area beyond Ein Kerem, on the western edge of Jerusalem. Any of the trails in this area make for a quiet and romantic getaway in nature, offering beautiful terrain and breathtaking views.
How to Experience the Past and Present of the Sataf Nature Trail
The Sataf Nature Trail and surrounding forest are named after an ancient village that was established there more than 6,000 years ago. Eventually, the inhabitants of long ago built stone terraces so they could farm the steep slopes that received water from underground springs. They grew olives, almonds and figs.
Today, those terraces are still visible, with many restored by the Jewish National Fund. The restoration efforts have also resulted in modern-day olive and fig trees that are watered by the same ancient springs.
The area now has several marked trails, with some of the best ones starting from the Sataf Junction, where there is a parking lot, snack bar and toilets. There is another parking lot beyond that as well.
It is recommended to bring a picnic lunch, and find a nice quiet area to eat next to a spring or under a tree. The months of March and April are some of the best times to walk the Sataf Nature Trail, as the area is covered in purple, red and yellow wildflowers after the winter rains.
The Sataf Nature Trail is not the only place for a nature walk or hike in Jerusalem
The outskirts of Jerusalem are filled with many picturesque areas for nature walks and picnics. Another very worthwhile and easily accessible place is Ein Lavan, a spring just beyond the city’s Biblical Zoo. Ein Lavan contains two restored natural pools, which are nice for wading. There are also picnic tables, plenty of trees and walking trails.
Further afield is Shvil HaMaayanot, a magical trail that passes by several springs. This trail begins at the Seadim Ruins, where visitors can explore an ancient olive press, home and mosque. The trails offer many secluded places to rest along th
The Sataf Nature Trail and other Romantic Walks in Jerusalem
The Sataf Nature Trail is one of the highlights of the forest and hills on the outskirts of Jerusalem. But it is not just one trail. Several different routes wind through pine forests, rocky hills, hidden caves, ancient ruins and lush springs in this area beyond Ein Kerem, on the western edge of Jerusalem. Any of the trails in this area make for a quiet and romantic getaway in nature, offering beautiful terrain and breathtaking views.
How to Experience the Past and Present of the Sataf Nature Trail
The Sataf Nature Trail and surrounding forest are named after an ancient village that was established there more than 6,000 years ago. Eventually, the inhabitants of long ago built stone terraces so they could farm the steep slopes that received water from underground springs. They grew olives, almonds and figs.
Today, those terraces are still visible, with many restored by the Jewish National Fund. The restoration efforts have also resulted in modern-day olive and fig trees that are watered by the same ancient springs.
The area now has several marked trails, with some of the best ones starting from the Sataf Junction, where there is a parking lot, snack bar and toilets. There is another parking lot beyond that as well.
It is recommended to bring a picnic lunch, and find a nice quiet area to eat next to a spring or under a tree. The months of March and April are some of the best times to walk the Sataf Nature Trail, as the area is covered in purple, red and yellow wildflowers after the winter rains.
The Sataf Nature Trail is not the only place for a nature walk or hike in Jerusalem
The outskirts of Jerusalem are filled with many picturesque areas for nature walks and picnics. Another very worthwhile and easily accessible place is Ein Lavan, a spring just beyond the city’s Biblical Zoo. Ein Lavan contains two restored natural pools, which are nice for wading. There are also picnic tables, plenty of trees and walking trails.
Further afield is Shvil HaMaayanot, a magical trail that passes by several springs. This trail begins at the Seadim Ruins, where visitors can explore an ancient olive press, home and mosque. The trails offer many secluded places to rest along the way. Some of the springs along this trail are deep enough for swimming when the weather is warm.
All of these places can be reached by private car, or taxi.
e way. Some of the springs along this trail are deep enough for swimming when the weather is warm.
All of these places can be reached by private car, or taxi.
