Thematic tourism

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Gush Etzion

Israel is a small country of big recreational potential. Any tourist who will come here is going to meet the unique range of natural habitats, climates and landscapes. It will take months and months just to take a brief look at all the unique sites of our country. You can visit Israel again and again, each time discovering something unexpected and curious.

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So, a little away from the popular tourist destinations there is a place unjustly deprived by the massive attention. Take a ride from Jerusalem and go directly south. After 15 minutes you will enter Gush Etzion – the area, which historic and strategic importance is difficult to overestimate. Travelers, who choose tours to Israel, would be surprised how many attractions are there. And we want to give you some reasons why everyone should visit this magnificent place called Gush Etzion.

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First of all, this place is a thriving wine region. Gush Etzion is located in the Judean Mountains, which means very special conditions for a local grape. Wineyards are raised in a rather cold climate for Israel, with the rapid changes in day and night temperatures. Thus – local wines and grape itself have unique recognizable style and taste. There are some small and impressive garage wineries around but the true center of local production is a Gush Etzion factory. In addition to standard entertainment – wine tasting and shopping at a local boutique – you can learn how Israeli wine is being produced. The visitor center has access to a special metal bridge that passes over the whole factory. Tourists are able to see how local grapes are being turned into noble beverages. Let’s say, few Israeli wine companies offer something similar. So, Gush Etzion winery can be considered unique of its kind.

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And, of course, the wine is not the only drink that guests of Gush Etzion can enjoy. One of the most amazing and authentic beer productions in the country is also situated here. It is called the Lone Tree Brewery. The owner of this company is a real Scotchman. Scientist and biologist David Shire came to Israel more than 30 years ago. And, as he says himself, instead of preparation of poor laboratory mice, he chose farming and the production of beer. Who else but the man who was born in Scotland, knows how to brew real ales and stouts. For tourists Lone Tree Brewery can be a real discovery. After all, a regular traveler hardly expects to see something like that in Judean Mountains. Here you can taste amazingly delicious and tender local ale or stout with firm bitterness. This just a couple of varieties the brewery can offer. Beer lovers would probably like to taste everything and get some bottles with them.

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Also Gush Etzion hosts an amazing farm called Sde Bar. It’s located near the spectacular ancient fortress of Herodium – the majestic citadel of the King Herod, whose tomb, presumably, is here. After seeing the sights, any tourist might become slightly hungry. So, welcome to the Sde Bar farm, which produces a gorgeous cheese, yogurt, and in general, all that is possible to produce of goat milk. The animals are kept with great care, in a sterile cleanliness, as you can see in person during exciting farm tour. Anyone must pay a visit to the dining room at Sde Bar, and devote their time for tasting the local delicacies. In addition, the farm dwellers are working on the creation of an entirely new kind of ecological fuel from residues of olive oil. Meet the green technology of XXI century and learn how the idea of clean energy is embodied in the life of the land of Israel.

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Those who are looking up to meet the nature and go into the wild would also appreciate Gush Etzion. Among other things, there is a natural park Deer Land, where wild deer, gazelles and antelopes calmly walk among the visitors. There are also a lot of sports facilities there – for those with a strong body and spirit. Climbing wall, 360° swings, trampolines, and a dizzying Omega, which is one of the biggest in the world. A trip of nearly a half-mile on the 120 meters altitude above the blossoming valley and wooded slopes ensures an unforgettable experience for adrenaline lovers.

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As we mentioned already, this is only a small part of what any tourist can find in a wonderful place called Gush Etzion. Do not expect to visit all in one day. Get your impressions gradually, step by step, stay there minimum for a couple of days. Especially since there are dozens of hotels and resorts to suit all tastes and budgets. We at Smartrip, will gladly help you to plan a trip to this part of Israel. Just contact us today and get ready to Gush Etzion. Come to the beautiful place, where there are still no tourist crowds, where lives the history itself and where everyone will find rest for their soul.

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