Ein Afek Nature Reserve

Ein Afek preserves the last remaining remnants of the vast Na’aman River basin wetlands that historically covered the Haifa Bay region. The reserve acts as a critical haven for aquatic ecosystems, featuring dense stands of papyrus, broadleaf cattails, and white water lilies, alongside thriving populations of water turtles, softshell turtles, and water buffalo introduced to maintain the open marsh habitats.

Crusader History & Fortified Flour Mill

At the heart of the reserve stands a two-story fortified Crusader-era structure built in the 12th century. Operating originally as a water mill driven by the powerful springs of the Na’aman, the site was later expanded during the Ottoman period. Today, the fortress houses an exhibition displaying traditional agricultural tools and an audiovisual presentation on the history and ecology of the marshlands.