– Seeing the Mountains of Lebanon by ATV
On the second day we planned on seeing the mountains of Lebanon by ATV with Al Ghaith Adventure. This was approximately a 4 hour drive through the mountains in Zgharta district which during the winter becomes a ski resort. During the drive you ascend to an altitude of approximately 2000m above sea level. You get some good views of the coastline and the valleys when you are driving to the location, and pass many small towns and villages. The rent of the ATVs costs about $50 per person for the duration of the trip.
We got to the meeting point and at first saw a huge crowd. Thankfully these were all finishing. So we had a nice small group of just the three of us. We were given the quickest of briefings, basically how to go forwards and backwards, and off we set! We were on the public roads a lot, but there wasn’t a lot of traffic so it wasn’t really an issue. The roads up the mountain were windy and exciting to drive. Personally I don’t think you can beat a nice windy road with no barriers and an amazing view! We had some stops for pictures along the way, but these were only very quick. We were anxious to be getting to the dirt tracks!
Eventually, after a lunch break in Ayoun Orghosh, we got to the dirt track. Dust, potholes, stones and rocks in the middle of the road…yup, this is what we wanted! We throttled up and took no mercy from the ATV’s! We bounced and skidded our way over the terrain and got covered in dust! This is where the dust mask comes in useful. We never leave home without them! Finally, we had to turn around and make our way back to the public roads for the journey back.
– Al Ghaith Adventure
All in all it was an enjoyable day even though a bit pricey at about $50 per person. We did however wish that we had more time off the public roads where we could really let loose with the ATVs. However, the scenery was beautiful, and the ATV’s were in good condition and we had no problems with breakdowns or other issues. The guide made sure we were all with him at all stages. He was also out ahead on the public road to warn oncoming cars we were there. At the same time he gave us our freedom. By which we mean we felt like we were trusted. That we could enjoy our time on our own without feeling like someone was constantly looking over their shoulder at us.
At the pick up and drop off point there are a few souvenir shops. Here you can buy items crafted from the Cedars, or any other keepsakes you may want to remember your trip. Make sure to look through them all if you have time, as some shops will sell different items from the rest. You can also barter the prices a bit better in certain shops. Like anywhere in the Middle East don’t part with your cash before doing a little bartering!
In conclusion, it was a good day and a nice way to see the mountains of Lebanon and get some good views of the coastal areas from far away.
– Information if you are planning the trip
Cost: Approximately $50 per person
When to do: In the Summer months as in the Winter the area is covered with snow.
Duration of trip: Approximately 4 hours
What to bring with you: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Also have a dustmask, water, and of course a camera.
Location: In Bcarre, close to The Cedars of God. GPS co-ordinates 34°14’43.3″N 36°02’16.3″E
Our Lebanon Travel Guide
- For our Lebanon Travel Guide with information for people looking to travel to Saudi Arabia please click here.
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- If you plan on doing some Sightseeing in Lebanon please click here.
- If you are planning to do some Walking in Downtown Beirut please click here.
- For what to expect when Eating and Drinking in Lebanon please click here.
- If you are looking for Accommodation in Lebanon please click here.