Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve: A Lebanese Treasure

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Discover Lebanon's green jewel: Hike through ancient cedar forests and experience the rich biodiversity of Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve.

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Horsh Ehden

Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, located in northern Lebanon, is a biodiversity hotspot, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the iconic Cedar of Lebanon. This mountainous reserve offers hiking trails, stunning views, and a chance to connect with nature.

A brief summary to Horsh Ehden

Nabeh Jouiit Rd, LB
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Local tips

Wear comfortable hiking shoes to explore the reserve's trails.
Visit in spring or fall for the best weather and to see wildflowers or autumn foliage.
Bring water and snacks, as options within the reserve are limited.
Check the reserve's opening hours, which vary depending on the season.
Respect the environment by staying on designated trails and avoiding littering.

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Getting There

Car

From Beirut, take the highway north towards Tripoli. Continue past Byblos, then take the exit towards Ehden. Follow the road signs to Ehden, then follow the signs to Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve. The drive is approximately 90 km and takes about 1.5 - 2 hours. Parking is available near the reserve entrances. Note that road conditions can vary, especially during winter.
Public Transport

From Beirut, take a bus from Martyrs Square in Beirut to Ehden. Connexion Transportation & Tourism operates a bus every 4 hours, and the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs $1-3. From Ehden, you can take a taxi to the reserve entrances, which are a few kilometers outside the village. Expect to pay around 10,000-20,000 LBP for the taxi ride.

Discover more about Horsh Ehden

Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, established in 1992, protects a precious part of Lebanon's natural and cultural heritage. Situated on the northwestern slopes of Mount Lebanon, the reserve spans 1,700 hectares and ranges in altitude from 1,200 to 2,000 meters. It's renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, harboring over 1,058 plant species, representing nearly 40% of Lebanon's native plant species. The reserve's diverse landscape includes cedar forests, mixed forests of juniper and fir, and the last protected community of wild apple trees in Lebanon. Lucky visitors might spot endangered Imperial eagles, Bonelli eagles, wolves, or wildcats during a peaceful hike. The reserve also features beautiful valleys and gorges with wild orchids, colorful salamanders, and various fungi. Horsh Ehden offers more than 10 trails for visitors to explore its natural beauty. Hiking, bird watching, and photography are popular activities throughout the year. The reserve is accessible from the villages of Ehden, Jouit and Ain El Bayada. The best times to visit are during spring and fall for pleasant weather and vibrant colors. The history of Horsh Ehden dates back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting the area was inhabited by civilizations like the Phoenicians. Today, the reserve stands as a testament to Lebanon's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and promoting eco-tourism.