Lanterns or Not to Be

Photos: Tomer Avni, Hof Carmel Field School, Yehli Yager

About the Activity

The “Going Outdoors” Festival, organized by the Israel Land Authority and the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, invites you to a magical tour of the Ecological Park and Ashdod-Yam Fortress!

Join us for a fascinating nighttime tour of Ashdod’s Ecological Park, a unique gem in the heart of the city.

The Ecological Park is a unique natural space preserving the city’s southern kurkar ridge.

The park, developed by the Israel Land Authority’s Fund for the Preservation of Open Spaces, was created with meticulous care for its natural surroundings. It is home to a variety of wildlife, native vegetation, and even special orchard species.

We will set out on an evening guided tour by lantern light, walking among golden grains of sand, listening to the sound of the waves, and feeling the breeze.

We will search for the tracks of animals that visit the site after dark, listen to stories about the local vegetation, and discover the park’s beauty in a magical nighttime atmosphere.

We will conclude the tour with a visit to an impressive ancient fortress—Ashdod-Yam Fortress—which was built on the remains of a Byzantine settlement and served as part of the defense system against invasions from the sea. We will hear about the site’s rich history, which preserves natural wonders in the heart of the modern city.

A unique nighttime lantern-lit hiking experience at the Ashdod-Yam Fortress Ecological Park!

Important Information

• Activity area: Coastal Plain
• Target audience: Families; suitable for child carriers
• Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
• Walking duration: Approximately 1.5 hours, walking among sand dunes; not accessible
• Route length: 1.5 km
• Required equipment: Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, water, a snack, flashlight
• Additional information: The tour is not accessible; babies and toddlers may be brought in child carriers
• Guidance: Guides from the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel

Please Note

The Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel reserves the right to cancel or modify the activity due to weather, security, or safety conditions, or at its sole discretion.