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Timna Park: A Desert Wonderland in Southern Israel

Attractions travel guide

Timna Park is a unique and breathtaking desert park located in southern Israel. With its stunning geological formations, colorful landscapes, and rich history, Timna Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Israel.

Geological Wonders

One of the main attractions of Timna Park is its impressive geological formations. The park is home to a variety of unique rock formations, including the famous “Mushroom,” a towering mushroom-shaped rock that stands over 15 feet tall. Visitors can also explore the stunning “Solomon’s Pillars,” towering sandstone columns that were once believed to be the remains of an ancient temple.
Colorful Landscapes

During the springtime, Timna Park is covered in a blanket of colorful wildflowers and plants, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the park’s many trails, taking in the vibrant colors and breathtaking views. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, hyenas, and ibexes.

Rich History

Timna Park has a rich history that spans thousands of years. The park was once an important center for copper mining, and visitors can explore the many ancient mines and smelting sites that dot the landscape. The park is also home to a number of archaeological sites, including the remains of a 3,000-year-old temple and the “Egyptian Temple,” a unique structure that is believed to have been built by ancient Egyptian miners.

Activities and Amenities

Timna Park offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. The park has a visitors’ center where visitors can learn about the park’s history and geology, as well as a gift shop and restaurant. There are also a number of picnic areas and campsites available for those who want to spend more time in the park.

For those looking for adventure, Timna Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The park also has a lake where visitors can swim and kayak, as well as a zip-line and a ropes course for those seeking more thrills.

Getting There

Timna Park is located in southern Israel, about 17 miles north of the city of Eilat. The park is easily accessible by car or bus, and there is ample parking available on-site. Entrance fees vary depending on the season and type of activity, but are generally affordable.

Conclusion

Timna Park is a true gem in the heart of the desert, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Timna Park is a must-see destination in Israel.

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Tel Shekmona National Park - Excursion Route Suggestion

Discover the hidden treasures of Tel Shekmona National Park, a gem set against the stunning backdrop of Haifa's coastline. Ideal for families and romantic outings, this short and scenic route offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, suitable for all ages. Starting Point: The Sea and Lake Research Institute, Haifa End Point: Return to the starting point Historical Significance of Tel Shekmona Recent archaeological discoveries have propelled Tel Shekmona into the spotlight as a site of global historical importance. Prof. Ayelet Gilboa and Dr. Golan Shloy, from the Zinman Institute of Archaeology at the University of Haifa, have unveiled findings that position Tel Shekmona, once a modest seaside site on the southern edges of Haifa, as a pivotal center of ancient industry. Their research, published in the archaeological journal of Tel Aviv University, reveals that Tel Shekmona hosted the world’s largest and most productive scarlet dye factory around 3,000 years ago. This operation was a remarkable synergy of the administrative acumen of the biblical kingdom of Israel and the skilled Phoenician workers who specialized in the complex processes required to produce this valuable dye. Prof. Gilboa drew parallels between Tel Shekmona and Tel Dor during our discussion, noting their shared historical trajectories. Initially a small fishing village that also produced scarlet dye, Tel Shekmona evolved into a significant industrial facility. In contrast, Tel Dor served as a principal port city. Both sites fell under the control of the Kingdom of Israel in the ninth century B.C. According to Prof. Gilboa, the primary motive for the kingdom’s expansion into the Carmel coast was economic rather than territorial or maritime dominance. The control of crimson dye production centers, like Shekmona, was likely a strategic move to dominate this lucrative industry. These findings enrich our understanding of the historical and economic landscape of ancient Israel and highlight the sophisticated industrial activities that flourished under its influence. Route Description: Begin your journey at the iconic Sea and Lake Research Institute, located directly on the waterfront. This marks both the start and end of a leisurely route that explores the lesser-known beachfront and delves into the area’s rich history. Adjacent to Tel Shekmona is the expansive Rosh Carmel Sea Reserve, where the Carmel Ridge extends into the sea, forming a unique underwater landscape. The marine reserve, stretching from the institute to Nahal Lotem’s mouth and westward into the sea, covers about 50,000 dunams. It not only preserves historical sites from the ancient settlement of Shakmona but also showcases geological wonders like weathered dolomite and limestone, and a unique reef formed by tuber family snails. After departing from the Sea and Lake Research Institute, head south to reach the national park. Recently rejuvenated, Tel Shekmona was transformed from a neglected dumping ground into a beautifully landscaped area. The park now features native coastal vegetation and several protected species, enhancing its ecological value. Climb to the top of Tel Shakmona for a panoramic view of the sea and the city. The site, known historically as a-Smak ("Mound of the Fish"), offers a vista sprinkled with archaeological remains dating back to as early as the 15th century BC. The area was a hub during the Byzantine era, evidenced by church ruins and intricate mosaic floors uncovered in multiple archaeological digs. Continue your walk south along the boardwalk, passing by excavation sites and the hewn "hot tub" pool in the sea. Loop back north through Hecht Park and cross to Alex Garden. Near the garden, explore the ancient Shakmona caves, used historically for burial. The route concludes with a return to the Sea and Lake Research Institute. How to Reach: Access the starting point next to the Sea and Lake Research Institute via Hubert Humphrey Street in Haifa. Please Note: Swimming at the beach along this route is not permitted. Embark on this enlightening excursion at Tel Shekmona National Park, where history and nature meet the Mediterranean Sea.

Har Sinai alley and the Great Synagogue

There are a number of popular nighttime eateries in the Har Sinai alley that wraps around the Great Synagogue of Tel Aviv. There is great food and a cool place to hang out in the evening. There is a Shishko Resto-Bar where you can dine. A Balkan influence can be found in its cuisine. You can also find tasty dishes at the other spots - Eyal Shani's Port Said restaurant is located near the Great Synagogue with a variety of dishes offered at discounted prices with a focus on quality ingredients, while Thailandit offers relaxed entertainment, the food remains spicy, challenging in a good way, and faithful to the original. You can walk towards the Harbaa Street, Shenkin Street, Rothchild Boulevard from Allenby, which is on the other side of the synagogue...

The One Ice Arena - Ice skating - hockey, and a figure skating arena

OneIce Arena is a new ice center, which serves as a public skating facility, an ice hockey arena, and a figure skating arena. The arena is located in the Tnuvot industrial area (10 km east of Netanya near Kfar Yona on the road leading to Highway 6. The center's huge area, including two skating rinks, the central one meets the strict international standards of the skating competitions and of the American hockey league NHL, and next to it is another rink that is used for training. A grandstand was erected in the central court, which can hold about 1500 spectators. The Arena also operates a pizzeria and a cafe, a dedicated store for the sale of skating and hockey equipment, gyms, a training studio and more. The arena, the like of which is not found in Israel, was built according to international standards, where besides the skating rink, it also contains an advanced multimedia system, television broadcasting, dressing rooms for athletes and judges, communication rooms and more. The arena serves as the new home of the Ice Hockey Academy, which has been operating in Israel for over 25 years, which is the largest and most professional school in its field in Israel with approximately 15 branches throughout the country and over 800 active players. The academy operates a regular ice hockey league for six age groups in addition to participating in the Israeli Ice League. Address: 1 Nirim St., Tnuvut. Phone: *8207

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