The tall building right behind the fence is the famous "Everest" hotel. The name was given to it due to the height of the mountain on which it was built. It was a revered hotel among wealthy people from the Gulf of the Emirates. Many Israelis were also hosted there. When the wall was erected, the owners of the place submitted to the High Court of Justice, claiming that the wall needed to include the hotel in Israeli territory since its business centre is in Israel. The High Court rejected the request. Behind the houses of Beit Jala, you can see the round dome on the horizon, the Herodion. Between the hotel and the Herodion are the houses of Bethlehem. To the south, an area of southern Judea extends to Hebron. This space is named Gush Etzion. To the left is Jerusalem and to the north is the hill of Prophet Shmuel.
This day trip in the Judean Mountains south of the Jerusalem Mountains reveals hidden wonders surrounding Israel's capital. At the centre of things are Nahal Rafaim and its surroundings. We will start with a spectacular view over Nahal Refaim, go down to Ein Itamar, reach Ein Lavan, cross the stream, and visit Ein Haniya. Then, for dessert, we will go to the highest mountain in the area, Mount Gila, and learn the history and story of the place. The most recommended season is spring, the month of March, when the almond blossoms, primroses and lupines, lavender and Lof blossom, anemones and orchids hide between the rocks. Have a nice trip!
TIP: It is better to travel in two cars in a friendly company, leaving one car in the parking lot of Emek Refaim Park and getting to the start of the route in the other vehicle. Then, having completed the walking part in Ein Haniya, return to the car in the parking lot in Emek Refaim Park, rejoin the first car and climb Mount Gilo together and complete the route. Of course, travelling independently to any point on the road is possible.