This article forms part of a series of publications under MEDUSA project to promote less-known natural and cultural touristic assets in our partner territories Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, Puglia (Italy) and Catalonia (Spain).

Enjoy reading and hope to welcome you soon at one of the wonderful places you will get to know here.

Located in Bchaaleh in Batroun district- North Lebanon, which was nominated between the most 63 beautiful villages in Lebanon, Bchaaleh Trails project integrates nature, agriculture and the rural scenery of traditional Lebanese villages. Families and friends can enjoy their time hiking, discovering the beautiful village, spending time in a sustainable environment.

One of the socially active major tour guide working to promote adventure tourism is Rania Geagea; an agricultural engineer and the project manager of Bchaaleh Trails in Lebanon funded by USAID. Geagea highlighted Bchaaleh trails and adventure tourism.

White Bchaaleh with Bchaaleh Trails

Q1-Do you view Bchaaleh Trails as a worldwide touristic attraction?

I consider Bchaaleh Trails as a worldwide attraction due to its history. Studies have shown that olive trees in this village have been in the ground for more than 2000 years, which means they are historical landmarks. Bchaaleh has an altitude of 1200 meters, meaning that the growth of olive trees in unusual, as they usually grow at altitudes below 800 meters, which makes this a remarkable phenomenon. The village has all the features to makes it a sustainable area. The municipality has developed infrastructure to ensure that roads are equipped to receive visitors, as well recycling, electricity and water waste management projects.

 Furthermore, Bchaaleh has been listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Lebanon due to its historical authenticity and unique landscape. People who come here can experience the locals’ daily lives and traditional activities, including hiking, olive picking, and camping in a sustainable and clean village.  This is a perfect weekend getaway for couples, families and friends. Last but not least, there are seven monasteries in this village, as well as churches, historical forts, the cedar forest of Tannourine, and roads with beautiful natural views. This is what makes Bchaaleh a unique worldwide tourist attraction and a beautiful place to experience.

Bchaaleh one of the most beautiful villages in Lebanon

Q2-What are the challenges that hinder tourism from flourishing in Lebanon?

There are many challenges that hinder and prevent tourism’s flourishing in Lebanon. Some of the major impediment to tourism’s growth are electricity, water and politics. People coming from different countries have a lot to discover in Lebanon, as well as a variety of activities on offer. Our country is a beautiful place filled with interesting and breathtaking attractions that have a rich history and an abundance of beauty of nature.

Q3- How has COVID-19 pandemic affected the adventure tourism sector?

I think that COVID-19 changed the tourism sector in our country. People started becoming more interested in activities such as adventure tourism including hiking spots because they offer an escape from crowded areas, and they give people the chance to get some fresh air while enjoying the breathtaking nature our country has to offer such, those of the Bchaaleh Trails. During the global pandemic, the Bchaaleh trails were open to visitors. The tour guides could have better introduce the trails and the lovely area.

Project Manager at Bchaaleh Trails Rania Geagea 

Q4-Do you think that women play an important role in adventure tourism? And why?

The role of women is important everywhere. Women have better perspective than men in various fields. They succeed in the management and can multi task all the time. They can promote better the adventure tourism and can help in making the tourism sector more sustainable.