Weekend Walk: Yom Ha'atzmaut special - Nahal Me`arot

Discover ancient caves located in the Carmel Mountains that were once inhabited by cavemen, then relax with a picnic or barbecue.

Nahal Me`arot  311 (photo credit: Yoni Cohen)
Nahal Me`arot 311
(photo credit: Yoni Cohen)
To reach the Nahal Me'arot national park from Tel Aviv take Route 4 northwards. Eight kms after Furadis Junction, take a right at the signpost for Wadi Me'arot. If travelling by public transport, take Egged line 921 towards Haifa.

The national park lies on the lower reaches of the western part of the Carmel Mountain Range. There are number of different hiking trails which all begin next to the parking lot. All the hikes are marked with a relevant color and all but the red one are circular which means that they return to the starting point. At this time of year, the reserve is awash with flowers.RELATED:Weekend Walk: A little slice of UtopiaWeekend Walk: Moshav AmikamA tour of the caves is also available, which is highly recommended if arriving with children. The guided tour visits three caves which all have their own story. The third and last cave has an audiovisual presentation about life during prehistoric times.Visitors can purchase guidebooks and maps at the visitors center and consult the experts as to which hikes are recommended. On Yom Ha'atzmaut, take advantage of the shaded picnic area located right next to the parking lot. It is important to note however that barbecues are forbidden in this particular area.For those looking to do a barbecue with the family, try out these great spots located nearby:Ramat HaNadiv Park in Zichron Ya'akovRoad between Kibbutz Yagur and NesherEntrance fee for adults is NIS 21; children NIS 9.

Tel: 04-9841750/2. www. parks.org.il
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We are interested to know how you plan on celebrating Yom Ha'atzmaut.
Please send us pictures of any barbecues, street parties or concerts that you will be attending to lifestyle@jpost.com.