I have collected for you the five places for a picnic or a nice light walk in the area of Hadera, Binyamina, Pardes Hanna.
Without unnecessary words, here are the 5 most interesting places that the nature of Hadera has to offer:
1. Beach 50 in Hadera (also called Gador Beach)
Beach 50 and also Beach 55 which are located in the southernmost part of Olga (The beach neighborhood in the city of Hadera). I searched for the origin of the name and I don’t understand why the beach is called “Beach 50”, but that’s how it’s better known to those who grew up here.
Over the years, the beach became a Gador Nature Reserve or Gador Beach, but I, as Binyamin Aslit, stayed with Beach 50 😉
This beach looks like it’s not in Israel! It has stunning cliffs, huge rocks and native vegetation almost all year round. In summer you can watch the beach lily spread out among the rocks. The beach also has a sea turtle laying farm – be aware that you settle on the beach and a large variety of seabirds.
Arrival in Waze: Gador Beach Nature Reserve
- Takes you right to beach 50
- If you want to get to beach 55, you need to head to the next beach south on foot.
- Free entry
2. Hadera River Park
From the most polluted stream there is to the most well-kept stream there is. Hadera River Park is located right at the mouth of the stream to the Mediterranean Sea, right next to the Rabin Power Station. In the park you will find a huge string bridge, picnic areas, flower gardens, a well-kept lawn and maybe you will get a picnic with a view of the sharks. I wrote an entire post aboutHadera River Park in the past In traveling exclusion, you are invited to read.
If you want to see the sharks, you should come mainly during the winter months. And the quality of viewing them depends on weather and sea conditions. This means that if there are high waves, and the visibility of the water is not good, you may not see anything. Know that normal viewing from the beach allows you to see shark fins from a distance. It’s a good idea to bring binoculars to see clearly.
The types of sharks that reach the estuary are mainly the fin shark (2.5 meters) and the lark shark (up to 4 meters) – both very similar and difficult to distinguish.
For more information about sharks at the Hadera power station, I recommend checking the project’s website.
Waze: Hadera River Park
- 10 minutes drive from Highway 2, get off at Olga interchange
- It’s hard to miss Hadera’s 4 chimneys – the park is right next to them.
- Free entry
3. Hiking Route at Hadera High School River
An easy tour route for the whole family, between Hadera and Kibbutz Gan Shmuel, a route that passes through fish ponds, a swamp and the old and abandoned train station of Hadera (which is currently undergoing renovation). On the walk you can meet seasonal blooms – in August-September fennel blossoms, waterfowl in spring and winter seasons and the remains of the village of Cherkess.
This hike has two routes, one of the shortened 3.5 km and the other the full 4.5 km.
The route is linear but there is also an alternative to a circular route and takes an average of 2-4 hours. For more information and details of the full itinerary, you can read on the Nature and Landscapes in Israel website.
4. Zeta Swamp in Hadera
A trip to the Zeta Swamp Reserve, which was the last swamp dried up during the 20th century. The reserve was awarded the title of “the only surviving unpolluted swamp in the center of the country” and constituted a very important role in the history of the city of Hadera.
This reserve, because of the swamp, vegetation and greenish trees, inspired Olli Joshua Hankin (the well-known redeemer of the lands) the inspiration for the name Hadera – the city “greenish” (Arabic: الخضيرة = “al-Khedira”), hence the name of the colony that later became the city – Hadera.
For the itinerary at the Zeta Swamp Reserve you can read more information Here on the website for travelers in Israel. It is recommended to combine the trip in the Zeta Swamp with the trip to Tel Zaror.
5. Hadera Forest Pool
Hadera Forest Pool is also called the largest winter pool in Israel, it is located just south of the Dor Alon gas station on Highway 4. From the gas station, you can turn right and park in the wide parking lot behind it.
Hadera Forest Pool is a great place for a day out with friends and family, as it offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas and a variety of seasonal blooms. The pool is also surrounded by green forests which provide a peaceful atmosphere for those looking to relax and enjoy nature. So if you’re looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, take a walk today at Hadera Forest Pool!
In conclusion
A fun and light trip in the Hadera area is a great opportunity to explore the beauty of nature close to home. With Hadera River Park, Hadera High School River Hiking Trail, 50 Beach (Gador Beach), Zeta Swamp and Hadera Forest Pool, you can enjoy a variety of stunning seasonal landscapes and blooms. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an exciting adventure on the beach, there’s something for everyone in this amazing region. In conclusion, a trip to the Hadera area provides its travels with an abundance of natural beauty and opportunities for recreation and relaxation.