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Alternative activities around Lebanon
HIKE IN THE OAK FOREST OF FNAYDEK
Take a walk or enjoy a hike in the heart of Fnaydek’s oak forest. Fall signals a beautiful metamorphosis of colors: the foliage of the giant oaks shifting from green to gold and reddish tones. It is a truly magnificent natural phenomenon and a sight not to be missed. Go on an adventure with Hassan Zakaria (03 593346), a local guide, who will also be pleased to host you at his campsite in Nabi Khaled.
TASTE THE SOUTHERN SPECIALTIES OF TEBNINE
Nominated in 2017 as one of the 10 most beautiful villages in Lebanon, Tebnine is a multicultural gem in the South. From its medieval castle to the renovated old souks, it’s a wonderful place to spend the day. Don’t miss out on the local southern specialties such as freekeh and mjadara hamra served at Goody’s Restaurant (07 326275).
ADMIRE STREET ART IN OUZVILLE
In an undervalued and neglected area of Beirut’s southern suburbs you will find yourself surrounded by expressive artwork and modern designs that decorate every wall and forgotten building. Discover one of the capital’s most characterful and inspiring neighborhoods, and connect with the Ouzville community. For a guided walking tour, boat tour or to volunteer, contact Pia Abboud (03 126977).
STROLL AROUND SOFAR
Enjoy an afternoon jog or a stroll in Sofar, Mount Lebanon, and admire the magnificent mountains of Aley. The boulevard of Sofar is revered for its traditional Lebanese houses and its long stretch of trees that undergo a beautiful transformation during fall. Don’t leave without visiting the abandoned train station and the Grand Sofar Hotel.
PICK OLIVES IN DEIR MIMAS
Overlooking the Litani River and the Beaufort Castle, the southern town of Deir Mimas will enchant you with its old streets, stone bridges and its superb olive oil. Join the locals during olive picking season, from mid-october until mid-december, and visit the traditional olive presses.
TAKE A ROAD TRIP TO HERMEL
If you’re a fan of road trips, you will thoroughly enjoy the ride to Hermel. Witness miles of exposed limestone rock flecked with cedar and juniper trees while driving from Dennieh to Hermel. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the exceptional view of snow-capped mountains and trees dating back centuries.
PICK MUSHROOMS IN HADATH EL JEBBEH CEDARS FOREST
Collect edible mushrooms at the beginning of fall in the Hadath El Jebbeh Cedars Forest and enjoy the taste of delicious mushroom-based dishes at one of the many village restaurants such as Ward Café Trottoir (71 680222).
VISIT THE BELL MAKERS OF BEIT CHABEB
Beit Chabeb is famous for its charming red-roof houses and its bell-making history. Visitors to the village can learn about this age-old tradition by taking a tour of the only remaining bell-making workshop in the Middle East, run by Naffah Naffah (03 575632).