Ma'aleh Akrabim, Heritage site in Tamar Regional Council, Israel
Ma'aleh Akrabim is a mountain pass with multiple hairpin bends cutting through a steep section of the Northern Negev desert landscape. The route connects different elevation points and offers views across the surrounding mountain ranges.
This ancient passage served as a major trade route through the desert connecting settlements across the region since earliest times. The path was central to trade networks linking different parts of the Negev for centuries.
The name Ma'aleh Akrabim comes from Hebrew and means Scorpions Pass, named after the scorpions that inhabit this mountainous desert region. Visitors can encounter the local wildlife while walking along the route.
The route is accessible by vehicle via Route 227 and leads to a viewpoint at the summit with views of the surrounding mountains. The path is generally open year-round but requires careful driving due to the sharp turns and steep sections.
The route is known for its technically demanding hairpin turns and is valued by drivers for its many elevation changes in a short distance. This makes the location a special destination for those seeking a driving challenge.
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