Ehmej, Byblos: A Hidden Gem of Nature, Adventure, and Serenity
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Last month, my hiking adventures took me deep into the stunning landscapes of Byblos (Jbeil) and the Bekaa, regions I’ve passionately explored for over a decade—week after week, season after season. Hiking has become more than a habit; it’s an addiction to Lebanon’s breathtaking diversity, where every region and season unveils a masterpiece rarely found elsewhere.
For those who missed my recent journeys, you can revisit my Instagram stories featuring hikes, festivals, and sunsets from Batroun, and stay tuned for my next adventure to Akkar tomorrow.
Byblos: Where Ancient Heritage Meets Natural Beauty
The Byblos District extends from the Mediterranean coast to the Western Lebanon Mountain Range, reaching an altitude of 2,300 meters and covering an area of 430 km². This vast region is home to villages that blend history, culture, and natural beauty.
From Byblos' ancient coastal citadel, dating back over 4,000 years, to the St. Maron Monastery and St. Charbel’s shrine, and the breathtaking lakes of Laqlouq, Afqa waterfalls, Lassa’s rugged mountains, and the fertile valleys of Aqoura—every corner of this district tells a unique story. Sadly, some of these natural wonders, like Janna Valley, are under threat due to dam construction.
But today, my focus is on Ehmej, a village that embodies the perfect balance of nature, adventure, and heritage.
Ehmej: A Haven of Forests and Adventure
Situated in the heart of Byblos’ mountainous terrain, Ehmej lies 57 km from Beirut and 22 km from Byblos, at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level. Its name is believed to have originated from Aramaic, referencing its forest-covered landscape, while in Syriac, it means “head of the valley.”
The village is predominantly covered in oak, juniper, maple, and cedar forests, providing a natural refuge for diverse flora and fauna. With its rocky landscapes, Ehmej is a prime spot for adventure seekers, rock climbers, and nature lovers. It is also a significant part of the Lebanese Mountain Trail, ensuring the preservation of Lebanon’s hiking trails amid ongoing environmental and economic challenges.
Hiking Through Ehmej’s Diverse Trails
Ehmej boats more than ten hiking trails, connecting it to neighboring villages such as Annaya, Aqoura, and Jaj. These trails traverse stunning rocky landscapes, providing an ideal setting for adventure enthusiasts. The area is also home to the magnificent Jaj Cedar Reserve, a true natural gem that is well worth exploring.
During my recent hike, I passed through expansive orchards of apples and grapes, as well as vegetable fields thriving in the fertile mountain soil.
The journey also led me past traditional irrigation ponds made of clay and earth, remnants of an older way of life that tied our ancestors to the land. These moments serve as a reminder of Lebanon’s rich agricultural heritage and inspire hope in resisting the relentless urban expansion that threatens our mountains and valleys.
Ehmej’s Commitment to Reforestation
Recognizing the importance of preserving its natural beauty, Ehmej’s municipality, in collaboration with environmental organizations, has planted over 30,000 trees. Groups such as Jouzour Loubnan and the Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (LRI) continue to support these efforts, ensuring a greener future for the region.
Additionally, Jaj Cedar Reserve, home to some of Lebanon’s most ancient cedars, is a key area for reforestation. With continued efforts, it is hoped that these forests will one day reconnect with the other majestic cedar groves that have stood for millennia.
Ehmej Through the Seasons: A Place of Timeless Beauty
Regardless of the season, Ehmej remains an unparalleled destination. Its pristine nature, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history make it a place I never tire of exploring. If every village in Lebanon followed its example and launched a nationwide reforestation campaign, we could protect not only our country’s future but also that of our planet.
A Sunset Farewell
With this dreamy Ehmej sunset, I bid you farewell until our next adventure. If you’d like to explore more of Lebanon’s hidden gems, you can find my previous articles and stay tuned for much more.
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