DAFFODILS - WHITE-YELLOW STARS

This Shabatt we drove to the plateau of the Golan to visit,  once more, the daffodils. To the left of the  entrance of a small village is a swamp area, called Achu Nov. This marshy piece of land is famous for being the home of the marvelous and very protected swamp iris (iris ha bizot - איריס הביצות), which will bloom in a little while, we saw many of the sword like leaves already peeking out. I will dedicate a post to them soon, when they are at the height of their bloom.

Right now the daffodils reign there, narcissus tazetta, (narcis mazui - נרקיס מצוי). These beautiful princesses broke the earth open about two weeks ago in the millions. Yes, that is right, in the millions. It is almost unbelievable how many there are. To call on them is such a  fulfilling endeavor. Bending down, looking at their grace very closely, feeling the soft petals and smelling their intoxicating scent is so rewarding and even a bit magic, you know, like being in wonderland. And then rising up and standing still, and eying daffodils till the horizon - now that is quite an experience!

Most of the time the circle walk of about one and a half kilometer is muddy and has to be strolled carefully. Where the water sits in ditches basalt stones from the region are laid out as bridges to make the passing easier. This winter rain was scarce till now, and as you can see the path was dry and the hiking was not difficult.


At the entrance of the round-about there are only single groups of daffodils at the sides, till suddenly a meadow opens up and the abundance of the wild flowers blooming in profusion is absolutely stunning.

 That white stretch at the horizon? Yes all daffodils! 

Our Dafi got her nose into them and had to lick their scent and pollen off her snout!

That was a beautiful day - much to be thankful for!

Photographs by my husband, Uri Eshkar.