Etzioni and Sanenzon warn: "Save the historic hiking trail on the Stella Maris ridge"
(live here) – An urgent query was submitted to the mayor following neglect on the hiking trail between Stella Maris and Elijah's Cave: "The site has turned from a nature and scenic center into a neglected and dangerous corner. It is imperative to restore this gem not only for tourists, but also for the city's residents."
One of the well-known and beloved hiking trails in Haifa, the "Sea Star Ridge" in the heart of the Stella Maris neighborhood, is suffering from serious neglect, according to a questionnaire submitted by City Council members David Etzioni and Zeev Sonenzon from the "Our Home" faction. The trail, which connects the lighthouse area and the Carmelite Church to the Elijah Cave and the Bat Galim Promenade, has become neglected, dirty, and even dangerous for hikers, they said.
The route is considered one of the most historic and spectacular routes in the city, both in terms of the views from it and the historical sites along it. It is also mentioned in travel books and in the book by historian Yaakov Shorer. Along the path, you can find sites such as an ancient chapel, military buildings from the British Mandate period, spectacular views of the sea and the bay, and more.
However, during a recent family visit by one of the council members to the area, he discovered a grim reality: ruined infrastructure, a lot of garbage scattered along the path, and, to top it all off, a collapsed staircase that is unusable, connecting the chapel to Elijah's Cave. "I was shocked to discover that the route, which is mentioned in every travel guide to Haifa, is in such a difficult condition," the query read. "In certain sections, the walk is not suitable for families or inexperienced travelers. I was embarrassed in front of other travelers who were there. Even the beautiful views couldn't mask the neglect."
The council members also note that signs were found thrown on the ground along the route, indicating that the place was previously maintained as part of an educational project in collaboration with students from the Leo-Beck School, the municipality, and the community center association. This collaboration has apparently been discontinued, and they are calling for its restoration.
The document includes four main questions addressed to the mayor:
- Why is the track in such dismal condition? What is the plan for its thorough cleaning as soon as possible?
- Is there a systematic plan for its restoration and development as a major tourist site in the city?
- Is there a plan to mark the historical sites along it with blue historical signage (the British Army observation buildings and more)?
- Is there any intention to restore the cooperation regarding the maintenance of the trail by Leo-Beck students?
According to the council members, this is not just an aesthetic or tourist issue, but one with significant educational, community and historical potential. "There is an opportunity here to connect students, residents, travelers and the values of nature and history. Haifa should be proud of such trails, not ashamed of them," said Etzioni.
A tourist gem waiting to be awakened
In recent years, there has been a global trend of strengthening domestic tourism and urban hiking – especially on easy and accessible routes near historical sites. In this sense, the Sea Star Ridge has all the potential to become one of the city’s main attractions, both for Haifa residents and visitors from outside. But to do so, there is an urgent need for restoration and maintenance.
Currently, the Mayor's Office has not yet responded to the query.
Unfortunately, the Haifa Municipality's policy is very consistent:
A. Neglect of natural sites
B. Destruction of the city's pedestrian environment and harm to pedestrians
C. Prioritizing private vehicles over any other means
D. Neglect and lack of enforcement of hazards in the wadis
Right in every word
Regardless of Elijah's Cave, we must maintain this beautiful trail.
There was also a descent from the place to Ein Hayam, to Ha'ogen Street.
The sons and daughters of Ein Hayam can tell a lot about this route….
So why really invest in these issues if you can invest in populism for the most part?
David and Zeev, congratulations to you!!!!!!!!
It is indeed worth cleaning and arranging the stairs, but the path is pleasant and definitely walkable. Every time I am there I see many hikers. The signs that were placed there were unnecessary, they really spoiled the view – one sign at the entrance would have been enough.
The route was attractive in the past, when Elijah's Cave was a focal point for all hiking enthusiasts. Since the religious took over the cave, it has lost its attractiveness, and naturally the route leading to it has also been neglected.
Instead of dealing with the route, it is better to deal with the question of who and why granted the religious patronage of the cave.
Absolutely right