A full Saturday of attractions: Rediscovering the Sharon region

The complex security situation in the north and south of the country has led many Israelis to rediscover the Sharon region, which has recently become a popular tourist destination for couples and families with children. The region, located about half an hour from central Israel, offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, with an abundance of attractions suitable for the entire family.

The Sharon Trail

The Sharon Trail, stretching 58 kilometers, serves as the tourism backbone of the region. The trail, marked with an orange path reminiscent of the historic citrus groves of the Sharon, was created to expose the public to the region’s charms. Unlike many hiking trails, this one is comfortable to walk and suitable for cyclists as well, with gentle ascents and descents that are accessible for hikers of all ages. In winter and spring, the trail boasts stunning seasonal blooms, and in summer, the trees along the way provide pleasant shade for travelers.

Along the trail, hikers will find several fascinating stops, each telling a chapter of the region’s story. Each stop is also an experience in itself, which can be explored separately. For example, at the mouth of the Alexander River, north of Beit Yanai Beach, a dramatic meeting occurs between the river’s waters and the sea. In the early morning or around sunset, when the sun paints the water in golden hues, the location offers fantastic photo opportunities and is a favorite spot for couples and picnic lovers. At the archaeological site of Khirbet Samara, the impressive remains of an Ottoman building from the late 19th century stand.

The ruins sit atop a 30-meter-high hill made of limestone in the Alexander River National Park. The structure was built by the Samara family and served as a customs station for exporting watermelons to Egypt during the Ottoman period. Today, the building is largely preserved, made of stone arches and large spaces, and offers a breathtaking view of the area and the mouth of the river leading to the sea.

Another attraction included in the trail, and beloved by families, is the Turtles Bridge, located east of the village of Kefar Vitkin. Here, there is a large population of soft-shelled turtles. On sunny days, especially in the morning, you can see the turtles lounging on the banks of the river, providing a rare opportunity to observe wildlife in the heart of a populated area. The bridge has become a symbol of successful ecological restoration, and a visit there provides a live lesson in nature conservation.

Additionally, the nearby Italy Park is designed as an ideal resting point for hikers. With its well-maintained lawns, shaded pergolas, and picnic tables, it invites visitors to take a refreshing break. On Fridays, the park fills with families arriving with picnic baskets, and on weekends, it is recommended to arrive early to grab a shaded spot. From the nearby Vicar viewpoint, there is a panoramic view of the Sharon Reservoir, surrounded by a well-maintained butterfly garden that blooms especially in spring.

Another experience that enhances the beauty of nature can be found at the oak Hill in Bnei Dror, especially at sunset. At the center of the hill stands an ancient and impressive Tabor oak tree, the last remnant of the once magnificent forest that covered the Sharon. In winter and spring, the hill is covered in a colorful carpet of wildflowers – red anemones, purple lupines, white autumn crocus, and various colored squill. From the top of the hill, there is a panoramic view of the Sharon region, and as the sun sets, the sky is painted in stunning shades of orange and pink.

Tractor Museum

In the village of Ein Vered, visitors will find a special surprise – the Tractor Museum. Operated by a team of volunteers dedicated to preserving the equipment, the museum displays the largest collection of restored tractors and agricultural tools in Israel. Every tractor in the museum has undergone a meticulous restoration process, and the museum staff ensures the history of each piece of equipment is preserved. In addition to the tractors, fascinating exhibits recreate life from the early settlement period: A period kitchen equipped with original tools, a rural clinic with historical medical equipment, a beehive telling the story of honey in the Sharon, and a meticulously restored living tent.

The museum is particularly suited for families with children. The little ones can play with a special tractor placed in a sandbox, meet the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine, and marvel at a life-size fire truck. On weekends, the museum offers a special attraction – tractor tours through the Ein Vered fields, allowing visitors to experience traditional agriculture up close.

The museum is open to the public every day of the week (except Wednesday) from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entrance fee: NIS 30 (children up to 1.5 years old enter for free).

“Starting Again”

On your way to experience “Starting Again” in the village of Herzliya, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and keep an open heart. The farm, which has become a shelter and rehabilitation center for animals rescued from abuse and neglect, offers a particularly moving experience. Tours at the farm are conducted in small groups and include personal guidance, providing a fascinating glimpse into the animals’ world and their inspiring rescue stories.

At the farm, you’ll encounter a wide variety of farm animals: Calm cows that enjoy being petted, curious donkeys that approach for a hug, noble horses that were rescued from abuse, and sheep and goats roaming freely on the grounds. All of the animals at the farm interact with visitors willingly, making the experience particularly meaningful.

The tours at the farm require prior registration and cost NIS 55 per participant.For more details, call 054-7787258 or visit the “Starting Again” website.

Parrot Farm

A short drive away, in the village of Kfar Has, lies the colorful Parrot Farm. Unlike traditional zoos, here the parrots fly freely within the premises, creating a spectacular natural display of color and movement. Dozens of parrot species in various colors and sizes offer a unique opportunity for close interaction, with many landing on visitors’ shoulders in search of attention and treats.

In addition to the parrots, the farm features peacocks displaying their magnificent feathers, colorful chickens, friendly sheep, and curious guinea pigs. For the convenience of visitors, shaded picnic areas have been set up, and the on-site cafeteria offers a light menu and refreshing drinks. A shaded play area with slides and swings is available for children.

Open every day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.Price: NIS 18 for children aged 1-2, NIS 48 for children over 2 years old and adults.

For more details: 09-7961773.

Mond Winery

For a more mature experience, you can visit the Mond Winery in the village of Mishmeret, which opens its doors to the public on Thursdays and Fridays. The kosher winery, named after Lord Mond – a key figure in the development of the area – produces about 10,000 bottles annually. The visit includes tastings of eight types of wines, ranging from fresh white wines to a summery rosé, rich red wines, and a sweet port-style dessert wine. A dairy buffet is served alongside the wine, featuring a selection of quality cheeses, fresh salads, hot pizzas, and homemade pastries.

Tasting price: NIS 80; Tasting + buffet: NIS 140.

Advance reservation required: 050-6331153.

Something to Eat?

Culinarily, the region offers a variety of options along the way. In Bnei Dror, for example, you’ll find the Agalata coffee cart, a perfect stop for breakfast or a light lunch. The menu includes fresh sandwiches with various fillings, hot pizzas, refreshing acai bowls (except on weekends), and hearty toasts. In the village of Nordia, Noga’s coffee cart offers fragrant homemade pastries, generous sandwiches, bourekas, and fresh salads, along with fine coffee, natural juices, and old-fashioned soda.

For those looking for a more substantial meal, The Smoker, located in the village of Yanov, offers an exceptional culinary experience. For 12 years, the place has attracted meat lovers from all over the country, thanks to its slow-smoked meats over an open fire in an open kitchen. The Smoker offers meals in a “feast” style with unlimited meats and sides, at a price of NIS 220-300.