Winter Pond, Netanya

The winter pond in Netanya is one of the city’s unique nature spots. The municipality tries to call it “Winter Lake,” but this name hasn’t caught on among locals, consistent with the Netanya practice regarding official names versus commonly used names, especially for neighborhood names such as Amalia (Kiryat Rabin), Azorim (Neot Shaked), Dora (Ramat Yadin), Sergeants’ Grove (Alonim Park), and there are more examples.

The lake — excuse me, the pond, begins to fill with rainwater as early as November, but its full dimensions and peak can usually be seen in January and February, when heavy rains fill the low-lying area, leaving a wide and impressive pond.

Surrounding the pond is a green park with trees that give a sense of nature and tranquility, with well-maintained grass and local vegetation being particularly prominent. Next to the park is a well-equipped playground for children, where many families are seen spending time while the children climb and play. The bicycle path surrounding the park also allows cyclists to experience this unique area up close, combining sports activity with urban nature.

The pond itself is an important natural focal point, and the entire area is full of life – unique amphibians and crustaceans live in the pond, migratory birds come to rest and stop on their way, and seasonal vegetation blooms on the water’s edge, adding a colorful touch to the winter landscape. In the early morning hours or at dusk, the area offers an amazing sense of serenity, with a unique blend of urbanity and nature at its best.

Whether on foot or on wheels, the winter pond is a place that emphasizes the power of nature in the rainy season, and the city’s ability to create a space where nature and humans blend in harmony.