Tel Gezer – Scenery, History, and an Underground Cave

If you’re looking for a short Friday morning trip that combines nature, views, and ancient history with a touch of mystery – Tel Gezer is the perfect place.

A short drive from the winery hides one of Israel’s most impressive archaeological sites, where time seems to stand still – among ancient gates, stone monuments, and a stunning underground tunnel.

🗺️ Convenient distances:

• Granada Winery (Gan HaDarom): about 30 minutes drive

• From Tel Aviv: about 35 minutes drive

• From Be’er Sheva: about 55 minutes drive
  

🏞️ Layers of History

Tel Gezer is considered an important biblical city, mentioned in the Book of Joshua and other ancient sources. Excavations at the site have revealed one of the world’s oldest Canaanite gates, altars, stone monuments, and the famous Gezer Calendar – the oldest known Hebrew agricultural inscription.

Walking along the trails of the hill feels like a journey through time – each path leads to another story about this land.

🕳️ The Underground Cave – A Hidden Wonder Beneath the Earth

On the eastern side of the hill lies one of the site’s most impressive attractions – an ancient 45-meter-long water tunnel, entirely carved from soft rock. Descending the stone steps leads to a wide, cool chamber where an ancient spring once flowed.

This is one of the largest waterworks from the Middle Bronze Age, and the experience of going underground – in the middle of quiet fields – is unique and fascinating.

The site is suitable for older children and light adventure enthusiasts, but it’s important to bring a flashlight and comfortable shoes.

🌿 What You’ll See Around

• Canaanite city gate – a massive structure from the 18th century BCE

• Stone monuments – ten large cult stones preserved in their original place

• Amazing viewpoint – views of the Ayalon Valley, the Judean Hills, and the coastal plain
  

☕ A Perfect Friday Morning Ending

After exploring the cave and walking the hill, you can stop at a cafe in Gedera or Mazkeret Batya,and finish with wine tasting at Granada Winery 🍷 – a day full of earth, nature, and pomegranate flavors in one.

🕓 Recommended Friday Morning Itinerary at Tel Gezer

08:30 – Arrival and walk along the hill trails09:15 – Descend into the ancient water tunnel10:00 – Scenic viewpoint and light snack under the trees11:00 – Stop for wine tasting at Granada Winery 🍷

A short, scenic, and lively trip – perfect for Friday morning adventure.

🍷 A Moment of Inspiration from Granada Winery

“Some places remind us that every depth begins with a layer.Like at Tel Gezer, with pomegranates – roots, depth, and light lie beneath the surface.”

📍 Distances:

• Granada Winery: about 30 minutes

• From Tel Aviv: about 35 minutes

• From Be’er Sheva: about 55 minutes
  

🕰 Recommended duration: 2–3 hours 🥾 Difficulty level: Easy to moderate 🅿️ Parking: At the entrance to the hill 🥗 Nearby options: Gedera, Mazkeret Batya, Granada Winery