From Mâr Sâbâ to Bethlehem, 2 hrs. 50 min. A tolerable path ascends to the N. from the upper tower of the monastery, affording several fine retrospects of the Dead Sea and the wild mountain-scenery. After 25 min. the monastery-tower disappears. In spring all these heights are covered with good pastures. Far below, in the Wâdi en-Nâr, are seen the huts of the natives who live under the protection of the monastery. After 10 min. the Mt. of Olives comes in sight on the right. (A path with finer views diverges here to the N. and leads past the ruined monastery Dér Ibn 'Obêd, or Mâr Theodosius, Dér Dósi , to Bethlehem.) In 20 min. we gain the top of the hill, whence we have a fine view, the Frank Mountain being also visible towards the S. After 4 min. we descend into the Wâdi el-'Arâis (10 min.). After 90 min. we have a view of Bethlehem, and on the right rises Mâr Elyâs. In 40 min. we reach the first fields and orchards of Bethlehem. The monastery of Mâr Sâbâ, also possesses land here. Most of the gardens are provided with watch-towers (Isaiah v. 2). We leave the village of Bêt Sâhûr to the left and, passing the Latin monastery, reach (25 min.) Bethlehem.