Ashdod Travelers guide

Ashdod | Around Ashdod 172 khan stands one of the only structures that was left mostly intact- the tomb of Sheikh Abu Al-Kabel. At the end of the visit you can continue to the great winter pond - Roberts Pond (it is recommended to visit during the winter, or alternatively in the spring when you can enjoy the beautiful blossoms in the area). Roberts Pool The Great Winter Pond, which covers an area of about 190 dunams (47.5 acres) southwest of Tel Ashdod, between the Ashdod Sands Park and Route 4, is named after Scottish artist David Roberts, who, during his visit to Israel in 1839, painted the landscapes of Israel, among which were the Pond and the adjacent Tel Ashdod. Its Arabic name is "Birket El-Khan", after the Khan which was located at the foot of the nearby Tel (archaeological site). The rainwater collected here every winter draw many kinds of waterfowl and a wide variety of amphibians. There are Eucalyptus trees and many Sycamore trees on the banks of the pond, as well as diverse water vegetation. The pond, which generally remains full of water until the spring arrives, is an excellent location for a picnic in nature (careful: Do not bathe in its waters). Roberts Pond is also a station on the hiking trail (black markings), which begins at the Shikmim Field School (on Nitzanim Beach) and ends at Tel Ashdod. Nitzanim Sands Reserve The giant sand park, which covers an area of about 20 thousand dunam (5000 acres) between Ashdod and Ashkelon, is a reminder of the sands that once covered the coastal plain, and is without a doubt one of the most impressive and magical nature sites in the south. Once you have conquered the top of the famous great sand dune at the northern end of the park, within the city of Ashdod (see the "Running" chapter), you can continue to explore the park. 24 hours a day, throughout the year Free of charge West to Beit Ezra Not accessible to the handicapped It is recommended to come during the winter or the beginning of the spring. The area is meant for off-road vehicles and hikers only. Roberts Pool TIP Be careful not to confuse it with the sewerage reservoir north of the pond. In some of the maps it is wrongly marked as Roberts Pond.