Just off Route 1, on the way to Jerusalem, Ein Hemed is a delightful nature spot to visit with the family. With picnic areas, lawns, a playground and a little stream running through it that children can paddle in, take ball games and towels and plenty of food and water for a lovely day in nature. You can barbecue at this site.

The Crusaders built a fortified farm here, with a structure that has been preserved and is very impressive. Because of its beauty, the Crusaders gave this spot and its main spring the Latin name Aqua Bella (“beautiful water”).

The Nature and Parks Authority, which has developed and maintains Aqua Bella, has carried out work to control the flow of the water in the stream, and installed picnic tables in the shade. There are spacious lawns, and toilets and washing facilities. As a result, this beautiful hidden valley has become a delightful place to visit. 

Features:

• Crusader fortress and remains of an agricultural farm – in the southern part of the park there is a fortified building from the Crusader period, which appears to have served a farm. The ancient remains have been taken care of and preserved, adding a mysterious and magical historical aspect to the park.
  
  
• Recycled flow of stream water – a closed system collects the spring water flowing through the streambed of Kesalon Stream and brings it back to the starting point. This system is intended to prevent the stream from drying up during rainless winters and drought years.
  
  
• Path to the burial cave – a circular walking trail leading to the First Temple era burial cave. The cave is to the south of the stream.

Ein Hemed is accessible from Highway 1 at the Hemed junction, 30 minutes from Beit Shemesh.

Summer hours: Sunday - Thursday & Saturday 8am - 5pm. Friday and holiday eves: 8am - 4pm.

Entrance to the park closes one hour before closing time.

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