Day 7
Start the day with a scenic drive to the Eshtaol Forest, located about 30 minutes west of Jerusalem. This area is famous as the scene of Samson's exploits, and includes Tel Zor'a, where Samson's traditional tomb is located. As a Nazirite, this biblical strongman wasn't allowed to drink wine. Assuming you have no such restrictions, click here for a list of wineries in the Judean Mountains and Lowlands that you can incorporate into your day.
Drive to the Elah Valley famous for the biblical story of David's battle with Goliath, where wine and table grapes are being grown as they were in Bible times.
Continue to Tel Maresha located in Beit Govrin National Park. The area is known for its manmade caves dating back to the Hellenistic period. These subterranean complexes served as the industrial zone of the city producing oil that was mostly exported to Egypt, and you can see a restored olive press in one of them.
Drive through the desert town of Arad to enjoy Bedouin hospitality in the Nokdim Farm (please book in advance: 08-9950097) or in the picturesque village of Drejat (054-7969576; http://www.drejat.co.il/p6-eng.html).
Overnight in the Arad area.
For additional itinerary suggestions, please see: http://www.goisrael.com/Tourism_Eng/Tourist+Information/Suggested+Itineraries/
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