Using Jerusalem (Yerushalayim) as a base there are a good number of wonderful things to see and do such as:
Kastel
Traveling west about 25 minutes we can visit Kastel. This was a Crusader fortress and later a British stronghold on a mountain above the modern Tel Aviv-Jerusalem Highway. This strategic point was bitterly fought over in 1948 and played a key role in finally opening the way to besieged Jerusalem. The view from above, after a short hike, is magnificent. The trenches, bunkers and maps make the story come alive.
Further west we can visit the stunning Stalactite caves. A subterranean wonder word of shapes and colors.
Latrun
Latrun, the former British fortress and prison, is perched on a hill controlling the Valley of Ayalon, where the sun stood still for Joshua and where the Maccabees defeated the Greeks. The biggest battle of the Independence War was fought here as the site is such a strategic one. Although Israel lost the bitter battle in 1948, we did conquer it in the Six Day War of 1967. A visit to the museum, memorials, seeing an audio-video presentation as well as the largest collection of armored vehicles in the world make this a must, especially for young boys who love climbing on the tanks.
Moshav Meir
A religious Moshav housing the museum of the "Lamed-tet Melachot" of Shabbat (the 39 categories of prohibited activities on Shabbat.)
Machon Ayalon
Traveling to the western end of the Ayalon Valley, to Rehovot, we find Machon Ayalon, the secret underground munitions factory established by the Hagana, under the very noses of the British. The public is taken underground to share this amazing story of how young kibbutz members fooled the swarming British troops for years, producing much needed ammunition for the War of Independence. Thrilling and inspiring.
Bet Guvrin – Excavations and Caves
Dropping south a little bit, we find an assortment of caves which can be visited in Bet Guvrin. Some were homes, some are ornate burial caves, and others were hiding places for Jewish fighters in the Second Jewish War against the Romans in 132-135 CE. There is the possibility of taking part in an ongoing archaeological dig at the site.
Valley of Elah / National Parks / Mountains of Judea
The Valley of Elah is where Shimshon (Sampson) fought the Philistines and where David slew Goliath – these are places where the Bible comes alive! Many national parks are in this area and are great for picnicking and enjoying the scenic landscape. Hikes in the mountains of Judea - some in the green hills west of Jerusalem and some leading up to Crusader and Romans ruins – all with breath taking views. Other outdoor and challenging activities that are available include rappelling, horseback riding, and jeep and ATV self-drive vehicles for traveling through the Judean hills.
Other Possibilities in the Jerusalem Environs of Judea and Samaria (the Shomron)
Kfar Adumin – Approximately 15 east of Jerusalem visit the Ptil Tekhelet museum and factory. See and hear how the blue tzitzit has returned!
Herodion - the "mini Masada". This is a lone mountain in the desert of Judea, built by Herod the Great. Discover remains of palaces, mikvaot and synagogues as well as unforgettable views. Explore the tunnels used as a command center by Bar Kochba in the revolt against the Romans and see the newly uncovered mausoleum that is thought to be the long sought after tomb of Herod.
Pioneering Jewish communities -Visit some of the pioneering communities in the Judean desert and in Judea and Samaria (the Shomron) where the Bible, beauty and heroic determination meet... See how they live, farm, study and contribute to the front lines of Israel today. Plant a tree, pick fruit and vegetables, visit the sites where Jews lived thousands of years ago.
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