24 Feb 2024

Snowshoeing - Arz to Bekaa Kafra Snowshoeing - Becharreh District

  • This week, our journey will take us from The Cedars to Bekaa Kafra.

    Arz Bcharre stands out as one of the most captivating places in Lebanon. Alongside the Jeita cave, it was nominated for consideration as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

    Lebanon's cedar forests hold the distinction of being the oldest documented forests in history. With a total of 31 cedar forests in Lebanon, the Cedars of God in Bcharre are particularly noteworthy. This ancient cedar grove is the oldest in Lebanon, presenting a breathtaking sight, especially in winter when a blanket of snow imparts a sense of peace and tranquility. Rudy Rahmeh's skillfully crafted sculptures further enhance the forest's beauty.

    The group will be split into two.
    Group 1 will explore the Cedars, embarking on a tour through the forest, capturing photos amidst the majestic trees, and savoring a genuine Lebanese treasure. The cedars exude a unique charm when adorned in their winter white coat. Afterward, the group will take a bus to Bekaa Kafra to visit its various points of interest.

    Group 2 will embark on a more extended walk, bypassing the Cedar forest but journeying from The Cedars to Bekaa Kafra. This route involves some uphill sections, requiring effort and a good level of physical fitness. The scenic views along the way offer opportunities for photo stops, including a frozen pond during this time of year.

    Bekaa Kafra, the hometown of St. Charbel, holds the distinction of being the highest village in Lebanon, situated at an altitude of 1850m. Designated by UNESCO as a typical traditional Lebanese village, it is a must-see. Explorations will include St. Charbel’s house, the cave where he prayed, and other landmarks in the village.

    Both groups will reconvene for lunch in the village of Bekaa Kafra.

    WHERE: Arz - Bekaa Kafra
    123 km from Beirut
    2000 to 1800 m above sea level

    WHEN: Saturday, February 24

    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: 45$ per person including transport, snowshoes, guides, reserve entrance 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

    WHAT TO GET: Snowsuit (or any waterproof clothing), waterproof boots (preferably after-ski boots), or get thick nylon bags to cover your walking shoes, wool socks (and an extra pair for changing, hat and gloves, lunch, light snacks that will boost up your energy such as dried fruits, water, sunglasses and sunscreen.

    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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