05 Jan 2025

Hiking Trip - Lamartine Ras El Metn Hike - Metn District

  • LAMARTINE RAS EL METN HIKE

    “From this place, God's gift to perceive His Work can be captured through a glimpse.” Alphonse de Lamartine (1790-1869).

    Join us for an unforgettable hike through Ras el Metn and the beautiful Lamartine Valley, inspired by the French poet and politician Alphonse de Lamartine, who found great inspiration in Lebanon’s stunning landscapes.

    Ras el Metn, a village deeply involved in preserving the valley’s natural beauty, plays a key role in eco-tourism and sustainability. This hike is organized in collaboration with the village municipality, and we extend our gratitude to President Mr. Marwan Salha and Deputy Mr. Raja Aboureslan for their dedication to maintaining a clean and thriving village. Special thanks also go to the AFDC Ras el Metn unit, led by Mr. Issam Makarem, for their ongoing work in protecting the village’s natural resources.

    Ras el Metn is not only known for its rich agricultural production, including pine nuts, olives, grapes, figs, and apricots, but it also boasts fascinating sights. Among them are ancient tombs carved into rocky cliffs, natural grottos, and the historic Nabaa Ain El Marj (1472). We’ll also pass by the abandoned monastery, Deir Mar Youhana, perched on a hilltop in Shehlen, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views stretching from Bhamdoun to Ktaleh.

    The hike is divided into two levels to accommodate different fitness levels:

    Level 3 (Easy): This mostly flat and downhill trail (with a 280-meter descent) will take you through a pine forest, past old abandoned houses and bridges. Along the way, we’ll stop at Nabeh el Delbi, the main water source that supplies Beirut with drinking water.

    Level 5 (Challenging): This more strenuous section will take you uphill to Deir Mar Youhana, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views before meeting up with the rest of the group by the river.

    Both levels will converge for a relaxing lunch by the riverbank at Ain Sheikh Hassan Halawi, another freshwater source. Please bring your own lunch.

    After the hike, we will take the bus to the heart of Ras el Metn, where we’ll visit the historic Serail, the grand government house built in 1775 by the Lamaayeen princes. Although damaged during Lebanon’s recent conflicts, the Serail’s elegant courtyard and bell tower still stand as a testament to the region's rich history.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Ras el Metn’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture!

    WHERE: Lamartine Valley
    Ras El Metn
    Mount Lebanon
    800 m above sea level
    20 km from Beirut

    WHEN: Sunday, January 05

    MEETING PLACE: 8:30 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: $30 per person including transport, guides and insurance.
    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
    Looking forward to see you!

    WHAT TO GET: Lunch, 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 $4.
    - Children/ Teenagers between the age of 11 and 18 will have a discount of $3.
    - University students will have a discount of $2 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:
    - “LIA Assurex” is the exclusive insurance company sponsor of Vamos Todos.

    Regards,
    Vamos Todos
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