My first impression, as we drove up the road from the main highway, was that sizewise the fortress met my expectations. In some areas of the top, it exceeded them, as far as the number of surviving structures. The greatest surprise was how incredibly hot it was, even in April. The Snake Path looked fascinating (a great experience going downhill, I’m sure), but at my age I was thankful for the roomy cable cars that make it possible for everyone to make it to the top. The visitor center, with the fruit drink vendor, was most welcome. My greatest mistake was visiting Masada without a guide.