17 Nov 2024

Hiking Trip - Niha Ferzol Hike - Zahle District

  • The word 'Niha' signifies a place of repose. This village once served as the summer retreat for Roman emperors from Baalbeck.

    Niha is renowned for its citadels, some dating back to the Roman Empire, with a few tracing their origins even further to the Byzantine and Phoenician eras. These citadels, while on a smaller scale than Baalbeck's, are grand and historically significant.

    Before commencing our hike, we'll pay a visit to the homes of some villagers in Niha. Here, you'll find homemade organic products such as kishk, pickles, syrups, and vinegar. Our mission is to obtain these wholesome products and support the local villagers.
    Our hike will commence from Niha as a group, and we'll begin by visiting the well-preserved lower temple.

    From there, we'll be divided into two levels:
    Level 6 will follow an uphill trail to the cross atop the cliff. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bekaa Valley. The trail will then lead downward towards Ferzol.
    Level 4 will hike uphill for a short distance until they reach the upper temple, which is still standing and in excellent condition. Afterward, the trail descends all the way to Ferzol.

    In Ferzol, we'll explore Al-Habis to see ancient ruins and caves. These are remnants of a prehistoric empire carved into the mountain, rumored to have housed all the gold treasures of that empire. On the other side, we'll encounter the king's chair, wine presses, and numerous historical artifacts from the Canaanite, Phoenician, and Roman eras.

    We'll share lunch together, enjoying a special homemade Lebanese cuisine in Ferzol, before making our way back home.

    WHERE: Niha - Ferzol
    In the region of Bekaa
    61 Km from Beirut
    1300 meters above sea level.

    WHEN: Sunday, November 17

    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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