Not every outdoor adventure requires kilometers of hiking. Some of the most memorable moments in nature happen when you drive to a gorgeous spot, spread out a blanket, and soak in the beauty around you.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning escape, hiking with small children, or just want to enjoy Israel’s scenery without the long trek, these picnic spots deliver natural beauty without the hiking commitment. From desert sunrises to ancient ruins, freshwater springs to panoramic views, here are five spectacular places where you can simply show up and enjoy:
1. Tel Arad – Desert Sunrise Magic
This National Park in the Judean Desert combines fabulous desert views, fascinating wildlife, and incredibly well-preserved archaeological remains thousands of years old. If you’re willing to wake up early, arrive before the park opens at 8:00 AM to catch the sunrise from the hill near the ancient Tel.
Picture this: flocks of birds circling in the sky past puffy clouds as the sun comes up. Desert dunes glowing gold in the morning light while the city of Arad twinkles in the distance. Set up with hot coffee and breakfast as you watch the show.
Once the park opens, explore the Israelite fortress where an ancient temple once stood before King Hezekiah centralized worship in Jerusalem. Climb down into the water cistern that supplied the city. Then head to the Canaanite city below – a much larger settlement surrounded by a wall over a kilometer long. The largest house (the Aradian House) shows how families lived with one large courtyard for cooking and working, leading into a single dwelling space depressed slightly into the rock to stay cool.
Keep your eyes open for wildlife – barn owls, white-tailed foxes, and other desert animals call this area home.
Best for: Desert views, sunrise watching, history lovers
Access: National Park (requires fee or parks card), opens at 8:00 AM
Bonus: Camping available
Read the full post with maps here!
2. Khirbet Tsura – 360 Degree Views
This beautiful flat hill offers magical, 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Up atop the hill sits a cool set of ancient ruins to explore – Byzantine-era remains of what was once an agricultural farm. Perch yourself on top of the ruins, or spread out a picnic blanket anywhere you please.
The crumbling structures are picture perfect, especially in winter when colorful wildflowers surround them. Whether you’re watching the sunrise or sunset, or just enjoying the views on a beautiful day, this spot delivers drama and beauty.
The location is easily accessible by car, though the last part of the road is a bit rocky. You don’t need a 4×4, but you may wish you had one!
Best for: Sunset/sunrise, winter flowers, ancient ruins
Access: Drive-up access (last stretch is rocky)
Nearby: Part of Park Britannia area
Read the full post with maps here!
3. Ein Mevasser – Freshwater Spring Serenity
This freshwater spring in Mevasseret Tzion is one of the nicest, cleanest springs in the Jerusalem area. It’s super accessible – you can drive right up and enjoy it in less than an hour. But you may not be able to resist following the little trail that leads further down the hill.
Find a spot to sit at the edge of the spring with your feet in the water. Watch fish swimming in the clear pool while you relax in the shade of fig trees. The quiet, breezy spot is perfect for iced coffee and conversation, or just peaceful reflection.
The path winds past additional little pools and fig trees with ripening fruit that emit a tantalizing fragrance. While locals occasionally come to use the nearby mikvaot, the spring itself often stays surprisingly quiet and peaceful.
Best for: Water features, shade, quiet relaxation
Access: Very accessible, right in Mevasseret Tzion
Season: Especially nice in hot weather
Read the full post with maps here!
4. Arthur Rubinstein Lookout – Piano Keys and Panoramas
Located on Mount Ora near the Kennedy Memorial, this memorial site to the great pianist Arthur Rubinstein offers breathtaking views of the Jerusalem hills and forests. The lookout features a unique sculpture – white marble pillars arranged at various angles, jutting out over the ridge like giant, jumbled piano keys.
It’s a meaningful memorial in a spiritual atmosphere, perched at the edge of a mountain with sweeping views. The spot overlooks the Jerusalem forests where a network of hiking trails await. The combination of art, history, and natural beauty makes this a special place to pause and reflect.
Best for: Views of Jerusalem hills, meaningful memorial, peaceful atmosphere
Access: Drive to Kennedy Memorial area, short walk to lookout
Nearby: Kennedy Memorial (Yad Kennedy)
Read the full post with maps here!
5. Mitzpe Ghandi – Desert Sunrise Spectacular
Looking for a lovely spot to watch the sun rise over a fabulous desert view? Mitzpe Ghandi, just outside of Ma’ale Rehavam in Gush Etzion, delivers exactly that.
Getting to this gorgeous spot requires a short climb up a steep hill. But the dramatic view at the top is completely worth it. Make yourself comfortable on the rocks or at the picnic bench, set up your pakal for some outdoor coffee brewing, and get ready to watch the sun rise over the desert landscape.
This spot is great at any time of day (midday visits offer beautiful views too), but sunrise is truly special. In October and November, check out the Holmoniot trail at the foot of the hill, where bright yellow flowers bloom in autumn.
Best for: Sunrise views, desert landscapes, seasonal flowers
Access: Short steep climb required
Season: October-November for holmoniot flowers
Read the full post with maps here!
Making the Most of Your Visit
These picnic spots offer all the beauty and peace of nature without requiring a long hike. Here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
- Arrive early: Most of these spots are at their best in early morning, especially for sunrise viewing
- Pack smart: Bring coffee, tea, or hot chocolate in a thermos, along with breakfast or snacks
- Check accessibility: Some spots require climbing or navigating rocky roads
- Time it right: Several of these locations shine during specific seasons (winter flowers, autumn blooms)
- Respect the space: Leave no trace and be mindful of other visitors seeking peace and quiet
Whether you’re taking it slow by choice or necessity, these beautiful spots prove that memorable outdoor experiences don’t always require kilometers of hiking. Sometimes, showing up is enough.
Which spot will you visit first?
