Whilst saying goodbye to our friends who weren’t joining us, and leaving our beautiful hotel in Arad, we were left contemplating our decision of choosing Shvil. Unaware of what awaited, we boarded the bus, many of us feeling nervous about the journey ahead but nonetheless a thrill of excitement circulated through each of us as we were about to embark on the next three days of our IST experience.
We arrived at Sde Boker and split into two groups to commence the hike, which to our surprise began on quite a flat and pleasant track. However not to be fooled as shortly it escalated to more of a mountain climb. Throughout the walk we would occasionally stop, where our incredible tour guide Ben would explain specific historical and geographical features of the land. We hiked around a total of 8km and were overjoyed when we arrived at the campsite as we were reunited with our friends from the other group and to our surprise our tents were set up for us!
Shortly after our arrival the sun began to set and the temperature dropped, setting the mood for the incredible night that awaited. Before group one set out to make our dinner, we demolished a delicious bowl of soup (and sippets) well deserved after an intense start to an exciting three days. It was a pleasure to have such a scrumptious dinner made for us as we were in group two, and were treated with an array of barbecued chicken, sausages, potato chips and salads. After enjoying one of the best meals we had eaten on IST so far, whilst surrounded by the company of our friends and madrichim, we built a bonfire where we laughed and created lifelong memories. This contributed to the spread of warmth and uplifting energy within the unique environment, ending off the day in an amazing way.
Our sleeps were disturbed at 3am by the loud chatter and energetic chanting of a fellow group staying at the campsite. We arose to a fire, warming our bodies after a not so pleasant sleep on our bed of rocks (all feeling very grateful for the luxurious accommodation that we have stayed at so far). Nonetheless, as we began the day with a meaningful prayers session overlooking the beauty of the Negev, the excitement and energy returned, ready for a day none of us were prepared for! We enjoyed a fuelling breakfast and assembled our lunches for the day and then set out on the trail.
The day began strong with a short but steep climb up the foot of the mountain, ultimately preparing us for what awaited. The next hour of climbing was mentally draining as we channeled our inner mountain goat and cautiously climbed the edge of the mountain, each step on the loose gravel. There was an element of teamwork and unity as we collectively looked out for one another, helping and supporting each other as we embarked on one the scariest but most rewarding moments of most of our lives.
There was a mutual feeling of accomplishment within the group that overrode the disbelief felt by all as we arrived on the plateau before shortly commencing the most physically draining element of the day. Whilst the sun’s rays drained our energy and the steep climb depleted our physical endurance we powered on to the top of the mountain where we replenished our energy with snacks and water and took photos to document this incredible accomplishment.
Continuing on down the mountain, we were motivated by the promise of the long awaited swim in the Ein Akev Spring. Finally, we arrived and after enjoying our prepared lunches and snacks we eagerly ran to the edge of the spring unaware of the drastically cold temperature of the water. However, this did not stop us from jumping in and rewarding ourselves with a refreshing “bath” in the fresh, spring water which made the previously treacherous hike all worth it.
From here, the day gradually became easier and before we knew it we could see our campsite in the distance. Ecstatic, we powered on down the mountain, and finally upon arrival at the campsite, we all collapsed on the map feeling a collective sense of pride from what we had just achieved.
We set up our tents and group two began preparing a delicious dinner of pasta, bolognaise and salads while we personally washed the dishes. We all sat around, devouring this extremely fulfilling meal as we reflected on the mentally and physically draining day that was ultimately ever so rewarding. Following this, we all stood around the fire absorbing as much warmth as we could whilst belting out Hebrew songs, reminding us how proud and grateful we are to be Jewish and have the opportunity to be able to hike in our homeland, Israel.
Waking up the next morning all feeling rejuvenated after a much needed sleep, there was a mutual bitter sweet feeling as we embarked on our final day. The morning followed a similar structure from the previous day consisting of prayers, breakfast and clean up and before we knew it, the hiking had commenced. We began by walking through the canyon, a never ending unclear path of loose stones which led us to our surprise of the breathtaking waterfall.
We were now at the final stretch; only a steep uphill climb to go. We enthusiastically perceived and conquered the course, finally arriving at our destination, where the busses and an unexpected corner store awaited. Relieved, we celebrated this monumental accomplishment with ice cream and snacks and sat in awe as we comprehended what we had just achieved.
Overall, shvil was the most amazing and rewarding experience and personally our highlight of IST so far. The past three days have exceeded all prior expectations and although it was both physically and mentally challenging the sense of accomplishment we felt, and the life long memories and friendships we created, made it all worth it. Not only did we have lots of fun but also learnt the important lesson of teamwork and perseverance. When we all worked together and put our mind to a mutual goal, situations that originally seemed impossible became achievable and turned out to be one of our best experiences of our lives.
Mia Bennett and Emma Isman