Hiking in Bkassine by Vamos Todos

Bkassine is a traditional Lebanese town with red-tile roof houses and narrow streets.

The hike will be divided into two levels:

Level 2 and Level 5 will start together from the public park. Then you will hike along an easy downhill trail in the pine forest. The trail is in the shade of trees where views of Jezzine, the waterfall, Niha and the Chouf region can be seen. You will pass by some water sources, but they are not suitable for drinking, then descend old stone stairways in the woods.

Level 2 (3 km) will stop at a spot accessible to the bus. From there, you will go by bus to Bkassine village and spend some time discovering this peaceful village. Then you will meet with level 5 at the oil press.

Level 5 (8 km) will continue along a trail leading to an old mill, then to the river. There will be a small stop by the river, before starting your uphill journey.

Scenery changes from this stage. You will pass through a dense forest of different kinds of tress, giving the impression of being in a jungle. The track will take you to a fougere bush that is dense and about 2 meters high. You will see two small caves intended for prayer. Once the uphill is over, the last part will be along a dirt road overlooking great views of the whole region, leading to Bkassine village to meet with level 2 at the olive press.

Lunch will be prepared by villagers.

Meeting point: 7:30 a.m. in the parking of Sagesse School in Jdeideh, facing the public garden.