The Sergeants’ Grove, Netanya

One of my favorite places to hike and photograph is the grove near my home. Every time I visit, I feel as if I’m entering a magical world, separate from daily routine. Especially in spring, the Sergeants’ Grove blooms with thousands of stunning colors. The variety of flowers and plants emerging from the ground appears like a breathtaking natural mosaic, and every corner of the grove fills with new life. There is so much to see and experience in this grove, and not just in spring – each season brings its own magic.

The grove is full of history and stories. Some people don’t particularly like the history that gave the grove its name, the Sergeants’ Grove. Therefore, it was given an official name that hasn’t really taken root with the public – Oak Grove. This is despite the fact that most of the grove actually contains eucalyptus trees, with only a few oaks on the eastern side. On this side, an observation point was also established, from which one can see the stunning panoramic view surrounding the grove (in the second panorama).

Speaking of names, the JNF calls the grove somewhat exaggeratedly in my opinion – Netanya Forest. This name brings a smile to my face every time I hear it, as this grove is indeed large and beautiful, but calling it a forest is a bit beyond what it is. However, this name gives it a sense of importance and status.

In the southeastern corner of the grove, there was a wishing tree, a special tree that holds many hopes and dreams of its visitors. Unfortunately, malicious people damaged it, perhaps in revenge for an unfulfilled wish. According to legend, this tree has already undergone numerous cuttings and recovered from all of them, so I hope that this time too it will manage to recover, although several years have passed since then.

One of the special features of the grove is the wooden bridge built in 2016 over the winter pool. I particularly love the bridge, as it offers a comfortable and exciting way to cross over the pool and enjoy the stunning view it offers. In rainy seasons, the pool fills with water and reflects the sky and surrounding trees, serving as a landing spot for ducks, creating an especially pastoral and picturesque scene. The bridge allows one to get close to the puddle and feel the magic of nature up close, without getting wet or muddy.

A visit to the grove and a walk on the wooden bridge are always an enjoyable and special experience. I recommend anyone visiting the area to come and enjoy the stunning scenery and tranquility this place offers. This bridge is a living testament to the successful combination of natural beauty and human creativity, and is a welcome addition to the amazing landscape of the grove.