Jerusalem‘s got it all.
Jerusalem is special to a lot of people for a lot of reasons. It’s a city which has and holds so much—history, culture, people—and that’s one of the many reasons why I love it. It’s even got a forest—perfect for an afternoon of easy (and enjoyable) hiking and picnicking.
The Jerusalem Forest is located in western Jerusalem, an easy bus ride from the central bus station. Its 1.2 square kilometers house a few major tourist attractions, Israel museums and a handful of trails up and down the hillside.
The forest was planted in the 1950s. Though it’s still very much a lively green space in the middle of a city, its size has shrunk to less than half its original size.
Any proper visit of western Jerusalem should include Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum, which is on the edge of the Jerusalem forest. Yad Vashem includes multiple buildings and memorials inside and out. There is also a research center dedicated to studying the Holocaust.
Mount Herzl and the Military Cemetery (where notable Israelis including Yitzhak Rabin are buried) are also on the outskirts of the forest. In one edge of the forest, there’s even an abandoned Arab town from before Israel existed.
Planning to visit Israel? Jerusalem is one of those cities that fascinates many (and for good reason). The Jerusalem Forest is a nice break from the Old City, but the forest is not without its own controversy. Conservation-wise, the Jerusalem Forest has also shrunk considerably over the years. Read more about responsible tourism in Jerusalem.
That picture of Jerusalem from the forest is beautiful. It must have been an incredible sight. I think a good hike is always the perfect remedy. Enjoy the fresh air!
Thanks Sarah!
I took a wander through that very forest this time last year!
Cool! Not sure if I realized you’d been here before! The forest is a bit off the beaten track which is why I enjoyed seeing it for myself. Though there are enough sights and things to do in Jerusalem to keep you occupied for a lifetime.
Jerusalem is very much on my travel to do list, thanks for the peek at one of its lesser lauded elements. I always love a forest. Nice to know it can be found there as well.
I really, really want to hit Israel in 2011. Thanks for all the updates.
you’ve done a fair amount of travel elsewhere in the middle east, right? i have lots to say on tourism in israel so keep me posted on your travel plans :)
Jerusalem is a unique place to live
Beautiful. You remind me of Auckland, New Zealand. I thought the exact same thing. This many bushes in this big ‘city’? Auckland truely has it all. Beach, forest, beautiful houses, wild but sweet animals.. all! :) I loved it.
I’m gland I get to see beautiful side of Jerusalem!! thanks Adam!
Jerusalem is still on top my list as one of the countries that i want to visit someday. since my travel explorations are now mostly around Asia, I would love to see the Holy Land with my family in the near future.