#Pakal_Kafe: Karmei Yosef Viewpoint
Here's an interesting fact about Israelis - They like to take a #Pakal_Kafe with them on hikes in nature, or when they visit their nearby ma'ayan (spring). (or sometimes use them at home!)
Why? Do you ask? Well, simply because there is nothing more Israeli than enjoying the outdoors with a nice steaming glass of fresh coffee (*Don't worry, there is always emergency tea for the non-coffee drinkers).
The story
Karmei Yosef is a small Yishuv Kehilati (community village) in the Shfela, close to Latrun. Eli Shimon, a Rehovot native, was the pioneer of the Yishuv, and the lookout point that was built on the Yishuv was named after him - Mitzpeh Eli.
At the lookout point, you will find two statues commemorating Roni Spieler Reshef, a Karmei Yosef native that was killed in a car accident in 2006, during her service in the IDF.
Roni Spieler Reshef's (Z"L) Story
She was born January 9th, 1987, and raised in Karmei Yosef. Roni was drafted into the IDF in January 2005 and served as an Air Force officer on the Palmahim Base. On March 17th, 2006, just minutes after returning home from two weeks on base, Roni was killed in a car accident. She was just 19.
What to expect?
On top of the hill, you will find two statues, a number of benches, and most importantly - an amazing view of the whole inner-Shfela area!
What you need to know!
There are special birds that fly around in the Karmei Yosef area, so the lookout point attracts many bird watchers.
Payment & hours: Free and unlimited hours
Distance from the parking lot: Right nearby
Best season to visit: All-year-round
Family-friendly? Yes
Directions
🚙Drive up Tamar St. leading into Karmei Yosef, until you reach the roundabout. ⬅️Turn left onto Gefen St. ⬅️Take the second left turn, and you will reach the spot.
