שמורת טבע עין אפק

Not the most dramatic of the national parks, but nice for an easy 1-2 hours with young kids or grandparents. The highlight is the long floating wooden walkway built above the wetlands, a bit reminiscent of the Hula valley. There's also a crusader-era flour mill which you can go inside or climb to the roof for a view over the site.

We did spot some nice wildlife, including water buffalo (it was a hot day and they were all in a group in the water cooling off) and lots of birds (I think cormorants and black kites). Also of course many catfish, and even a turtle!

It was a bit hot (though they had nice shaded benches throughout) and crowded due to Sukkot holiday, but otherwise a pleasant time.