15 Feb 2025

Snowshoeing - Arz to Bekaa Kafra Snowshoeing - Becharreh District

  • This week we will go from The Cedars to Bekaa Kafra.

    Arz Bcharre is one of the most beautiful places in Lebanon. It was nominated, along with the cave of Jeita, to become one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

    The cedar forests of Lebanon are the oldest documented forests in history. There are 31 cedar forests in Lebanon, most significantly the forest of the Cedars of God in Bcharre. It is an ancient grove of cedars, the oldest in Lebanon. It makes a beautiful site, especially in winter, when snow covers it all and gives it a feeling of peace and quiet.
    You will also see the sculptures of Rudy Rahmeh done with such talent, adding to the beauty of the forest.

    The group will be divided into two.
    Group 1 will discover the Cedars. You will make a tour in the forest, among the majestic trees, taking photos and contemplating a real Lebanese treasure. The cedars have a totally different appeal when wearing their white coat! Then you will take the bus to Bekaa Kafra and visit all the places of interest.
    Group 2 will have a longer walk. You will not be able to spend time in the Cedar forest, but you will walk from the Cedars to Bekaa Kafra, with some uphill crossings, needing some effort and competent physical ability. The views are beautiful and there will be some stops for taking pictures. You will pass by a pond, most probably frozen at this time of year.

    Bekaa Kafra is the home town of St. Charbel. It is the highest village in Lebanon, situated at 1850 m altitude. Unesco classified it as a typical traditional Lebanese village. It is a must see. You will visit St. Charbel’s house, the cave where he used to pray, and many landmarks of the village.
    Both levels will meet 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 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: 35$ 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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