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Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve: A Lebanese Treasure

Discover Lebanon's natural beauty: hike through ancient cedar forests and explore diverse wildlife at Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve.

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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 protected area offers hiking trails with scenic views, making it a haven for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Horsh Ehden

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfortable navigation on the trails.
  • Visit during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) for the most pleasant weather and vibrant natural colors.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities inside the reserve are limited.
  • Stay on marked trails to avoid environmental damage and ensure safety.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tripoli or Beirut, take a bus or shared taxi to Ehden. From Ehden's main square (Abdel Hamid Karim Square), take a local taxi or walk to the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve. The Ain el Bayad Visitor Center is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the town center. Bus fare from Beirut to Ehden is approximately $1. A taxi from Ehden town center to the reserve may cost around 50,000-75,000 LBP.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Ehden, you can walk to the reserve. Follow the main road towards the reserve, and then follow the signs to the Ain el Bayad Visitor Center. The walk from Ehden town center to the visitor center takes approximately 30 minutes. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and carry water.

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Discover more about Horsh Ehden

Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, established in 1992, is a vital sanctuary on the northwestern slopes of Mount Lebanon. The reserve spans over 1,000 hectares and ranges in altitude from 1,200 to 2,000 meters, characterized by high precipitation that nourishes a remarkable variety of plant life. The reserve is home to over 1,058 plant species, representing nearly 40% of Lebanon's native plant species. This includes diverse forests of juniper, fir, and the country's last protected community of wild apple trees, alongside the famous Cedars of Lebanon, which hold immense cultural and natural significance. The cedar forest here accounts for 20% of Lebanon's remaining cedar forests. Visitors can explore various hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels, offering views of the diverse landscapes. Lucky visitors might spot endangered species such as the Imperial eagle, Bonelli's eagle, wolves, or wildcats. The reserve's valleys and gorges are adorned with wild orchids, colorful salamanders, and diverse fungi. The area's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting habitation by civilizations like the Phoenicians. The village of Ehden, near the reserve, features historical churches, monasteries, and an old souk, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.

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