Ein Hemed National Park, also known as Aqua Bella, lies in the Judean Hills near Kiryat Anavim, a short drive west of Jerusalem, Israel. The park is built around a perennial spring and a shaded wooded valley, and offers a gentle loop of about 2 km that takes one to one and a half hours at a relaxed pace. Access is easiest by car, with parking near the entrance; visitors without a vehicle can take Bus 185 to Kiryat Anavim and walk the remaining distance. The total ascent is only around 50 m, and the paths are a mix of paved sections, packed dirt and short stretches of uneven stone, so no technical skill is needed. Shade is generous thanks to mature trees, which makes the park one of the cooler options for a walk in the Jerusalem area during warm months. Landmarks include the spring and its pools, stone-built structures from earlier periods of settlement and agriculture, and picnic areas under the trees. The park is managed as a national park, so entry is normally through an official entrance and visitors should check current opening hours and fees with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority before travelling. The loop can be extended or shortened by following side paths, and the full circuit can be turned back from at any point without difficulty. Walking shoes and water are the only essentials; there are no refuge huts, but the tree cover and picnic areas offer shelter from the sun. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant, while the greenest conditions follow the winter rains between October and May. Weekends can be busy with local families, so weekday mornings give a calmer visit.
| Distance | 2 km easy loop |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Bus 185 to Kiryat Anavim then short walk; car easiest |
| Best season | Oct-May |
| Address | Ein Hemed National Park, near Kiryat Anavim, Israel |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Judean Hills
What to bring
- walking shoes
- water
Location
Ein Hemed National Park, near Kiryat Anavim, Israel
31.7936, 35.1278 View on map
Highlights
- Stroll beside a perennial spring in a shaded Judean Hills valley
- Complete an easy 2 km loop in about an hour
- Relax at tree-shaded picnic areas near the water
- Reach a national park within a short drive of central Jerusalem
Tips for visiting
- Drive if possible; the park is easiest to reach by car, with Bus 185 to Kiryat Anavim as the alternative.
- Check current opening hours and entry fees with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority before going.
- Bring water and walking shoes; the route is short but includes uneven stone sections.
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid weekend family crowds.
- Pack a picnic, as the shaded tables suit a relaxed stop.
When to visit
October to May, when the spring flows and the valley is green; spring and autumn mornings are especially pleasant. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Accessibility
Some paved and level sections near the entrance and spring may be usable with a wheelchair or stroller, but other parts of the loop have uneven stone and dirt. Visitors with limited mobility should check conditions with the park before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the loop at Ein Hemed?
The loop is about 2 km and takes roughly one to one and a half hours, depending on how long visitors stop at the spring and picnic areas.
Is Ein Hemed reachable without a car?
Bus 185 runs to Kiryat Anavim, from which the park is a short walk. A car or taxi is more convenient.
Is the park suitable for young children?
Yes, the short distance, gentle gradient and shade make it a common choice for families, though children should watch their footing on uneven stone.
Does the park charge an entrance fee?
As a national park it is generally managed with an official entrance, so visitors should confirm current fees and hours with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.