Israel & Jordan 2023: Kerak Castle

After a memorable visit to Christ's baptism site, we geared up for a 2-hour-long drive to Kerak Castle. Historically, I love these long drives especially in a new place. I enjoy the little gems I discover looking out at the passing sceneries. The first part of the drive was incredibly scenic, especially along the Dead Sea. Also the part of Salt Beach along the Dead Sea was spectacular. On the opposite side of the road, was a beautiful gorge with waterfalls. Too bad we didn't stop here at all. Later, we passed through so much greenery - farmlands where they grow vegetables.

Kerak (or Karak) Castle is a Crusader fortification built in the 12th century south of Amman, Jordan on the ancient King's Highway. It sits 900 m above sea level. We toured this imposing fort with impressive hallways and endless passageways and stone-vaulted halls and a kitchen that was state of art in those days. And because it sits so high up, one can enjoy the sweeping views of the valley below.

There is a museum, but our time was eaten up by touring the castle.

At this point, the tour manager had given us time to explore the castle on our own and the time to board the bus. So, my husband and I went to the part of the castle that we did not enter.

Two more hours of driving, then a pit stop and lunch/snack at a restaurant/gift shop that offered magnificent mosaic items before another drive to our destination for the night.