15 Jun 2024

Hiking Trip - Yammouneh - Baalbek district

  • Yammouneh is home to an ancient sacred lake and Roman temple, surrounded by captivating legends and rich history. A vast water cavern located west of the temple fills the lake annually, creating a mesmerizing sight. Luxurious Roman villas once graced the area between the cavern and the temple, with numerous altars, statues, and artifacts discovered nearby.

    Today, only a retaining wall of limestone blocks remains of the temple, extending down to the lake level. It is believed that beneath the surface lie subterranean chambers, likely dedicated to Venus-Astrate. Legend has it that Yammouneh was the site where Venus transformed into a fish during the battle between Typhon and the heavens.

    During this time of year, Yammouneh is abundant with water, making it the ideal season for exploration. Visitors can admire ancient ruins, discover numerous water sources, and revel in breathtaking scenery.

    The hike will commence from the end of Yammouneh, where a beautifully constructed tree house awaits. After a brief introduction to Yammouneh, participants will be divided into three levels.

    Level 6 will embark on a challenging path, navigating steep ascents and descents along a slippery pebbled ridge. The trail leads to a powerful waterfall, showcasing nature's splendor at its peak.

    Level 4 offers a more moderate experience, meandering along the cliff edge overlooking the Yammouneh plain. Ample time will be provided for rest and photography before heading to the picturesque waterfall.

    Level 2 follows an easy route along a dirt road with panoramic views of the Yammouneh plain. Suitable for all ages, this level concludes with a visit to the stunning waterfall.

    All levels will reconvene for lunch at a cozy restaurant facing the waterfall. Local villagers, known for their expertise in fish farming, will prepare a delicious meal featuring freshly caught fish.

    WHERE: Yammouneh
    1500 m above sea level
    160 km from Beirut

    WHEN: Saturday, June 15

    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: 55$ per person including transport, guides, insurance, reserve entrance and lunch.
    35$ 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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