26 Oct 2024

Hiking Trip - Arz Karm Mohr & Aicha Fortress - Doniyeh District

  • Exploring Karm El Mohr: A Journey Through History and Nature

    Karm El Mohr, a quaint village nestled in the Donniyeh district of North Lebanon, holds tales of history and natural beauty.

    The village is graced by the presence of the Aisha Fortress, perched on the heights of Al Fawwar spring. This immense rock structure carries the remnants of what was once a significant palace or protective center. The fortress overlooked an ancient road that connected the Donniyeh region to Baalbek, traversing the Kornet el Sawda and Fam el Mizab mountain ranges.

    During the 13th century, Princess Aisha reigned over Bchenneta, and the Aisha Fortress served as her summer abode. The panoramic view from the fortress rewards the effort it takes to reach it. The altitude makes it quite windy and chilly, so don't forget your windbreaker.

    Our next destination is a hidden gem: a serene cedar forest, relatively undiscovered by many. Ancient cedars stand tall as witnesses to millennia. Seize the opportunity to explore this captivating forest, ample time for hiking and photography awaits. It's an idyllic setting for a well-deserved lunch break.

    The hike is divided into two levels:
    LEVEL 4, an approximately 8 km route, won't take you all the way to the fortress due to the steep and lengthy path. However, you'll arrive at Nabeh el Fawwar, just below the fortress. This leg of the journey meanders through scenic landscapes adorned with water springs and forests. Starting from "Swekeh," it's a splendid introduction to the area.

    Both levels will converge at Ain Neblayya and proceed united to the enchanting cedar forest. There, you'll have ample time to explore the woods. Afterward, both groups will continue together until Swekeh.

    LEVEL 7, spanning approximately 16 km, presents a more challenging trek, demanding uphill effort. The ascent involves an altitude difference of around 700m. Commencing from "Swekeh," you'll conquer the ascent to the fortress, rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas. Brace yourself for the chilly winds at the summit; a windbreaker is advisable.

    Subsequently, you'll reunite with Level 4 participants at Ain Neblayya to refill your water bottles with fresh spring water. A delicious lunch, lovingly prepared by locals, awaits, offering a communal feast to conclude this memorable journey.

    WHERE: Karm el Mohr / Aisha Fortress
    North Lebanon
    2400 m above sea level
    110 km from Beirut

    WHEN: Saturday, October 26

    MEETING PLACE: 7:30 AM in the parking of Sagesse School in Jdeideh, facing the public garden. (See map on: https://www.vamos-todos.com/Pages/ParkingMap.aspx)
    There will be a breakfast stop along the way.

    PRICE: 50$ per person including transport, guides, insurance and lunch.
    30$ without lunch
    Kindly get the exact change.
    You can register now at all branches of Antoine Library or on the following link:
    https://www.antoineticketing.com/?event_group_id=26

    WHAT TO GET: Light snacks that will boost up your energy such as dried fruits, water, cap, sunglasses and sunscreen. Wear comfortable shoes such as hiking shoes and always keep a windproof jacket in your backpack.

    SPECIAL RATES:
    - Children with the age of 10 and younger will have a discount of 5$.
    - Children/ Teenagers between the age of 11 and 18 will have a discount of 4$.
    - University students will have a discount of 3$ provided that they present their university card.
    - Groups with 5 to 9 persons, with different criteria than the above, will get a 2$ discount.
    - Groups with 10 or more persons, with different criteria than the above, will get a 3$ discount.

    PAYMENT TERMS:
    - Cancellation with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged half-price
    - Reservations with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged an extra 2$.
    (e.g. Cancelling or booking for a Sunday’s event on Saturday will be subject to the above terms)

    ESSENTIAL ECOTOURISTIC RULES & REGULATIONS
    - Smoking is strictly prohibited during the event
    - Always follow the guide on the designated trail
    - Do not go off road without notifying the guide
    - Do not get close to a cliff especially when the guide in charge tells you not to do so
    - Although accidents are covered by the insurance but they remain under the responsibility of the member
    - Sometimes, due to reasons beyond our control, slight modifications to the program may occur. Ecotourism rules must be followed, otherwise personal accidents will not be accounted for by the insurance.

    RESERVATION: Every day from 8am till 5pm on 03-917190 or 79-115001. It is preferable to send an SMS or WhatsApp from your mobile, giving your name, surname, and the event you wish to join.

    COLLABORATION:
    - “Sports Experts” is the exclusive sports gear and outfit sponsor of Vamos Todos. Members will get a special discount at all “Sports Experts” branches in Lebanon
    - “LIA insurance” is the exclusive insurance company sponsor of Vamos Todos.

    Regards,
    Vamos Todos
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