Mitzpeh Mesuah to Beit Guvrin
with Al–Hashvil, guided by Avi Farjoun
Photos: Israel Trail Hike 2025-10-30
It’s been five months since our group last hiked the Israel Trail together. So we were delighted to see each other again and catch up on personal news. Fortunately, it was mostly a walk-and-talk kind of route, so chatter flowed throughout the day.
Unfortunately, it has not yet rained in Israel, except for one short shower across much of the country a few weeks ago. So the landscape is still barren and brown.
The only shady portion of the hike was at the start, as we headed south from Mitzpeh Mesuah.
We stopped atop Khirbet Tsura.
Panoramic views and plenty of ancient ruins.
On to Tel Goded, for more panoramic views (and no shade).
Our wonderful guide Avi took us off the trail for a detour ….
… to explore one of the numerous caves that dot the landscape in this area.
These caves have been used throughout different historical periods, and for various purposes — as water cisterns, burial grounds, and hide-out shelters (Bar Kochba refuge caves).
This particular cave has a very narrow passageway leading to a cavernous columbarium. Since it required crawling on our knees, many of us (me included) opted out of the adventure. Thanks to my fellow hikers who provided the following photos.
We were nearly a full contingent of the Brosh hiking group, along with some new and guest hikers.
Sending a warm wave to Tia, Vardina and Liza, who are not continuing with us this season. We will miss you!
And, because I previously hiked this segment when the landscape was green and in blossom (March 2018), I share the following photo. I highly recommend this route for a hike with family or friends when the season is right.
Photos: Israel Trail Hike 2025-10-30
