Located over 140km from Beirut in northeast Lebanon, the town of Hermel has a lot to offer visitors. With archaeological ruins dating as far back as the Neolithic period and a rugged landscape brimming with hiking opportunities, we uncover its top treasures with Peter Ghanime.
1. GO RAFTING ON THE ASSI RIVER
Also known as the Orontes River, the 571-kilometer-long Assi flows through Turkey and Syria. Approximately 46km of the river runs in Lebanon, mainly in Hermel.
The river is spectacular as is the surrounding nature. If you’re feeling adventurous, take part in a rafting, kayaking or canoeing trip by contacting a local specialist like Assi Club (78 900952) or Rafting Squad (03 080790).
Photo: Vamos Todos
2. ADMIRE THE HERMEL PYRAMID
Sitting on top of a hill six kilometers south of the town is Hermel’s magnificent pyramid. The structure, believed to date back to the first or second century, was constructed as a means of defense against invading armies. A fence has been erected around the pyramid to help preserve it, but one can still admire this unique monument from afar.
Photo: Rana Tanissa
3. WANDER AROUND THE ST. MARON MONASTERY
Named after the Syriac monk who lived there with his followers in the fourth century, the cave is located 200m from the source of the Assi, 90m above the river.
Carved out of solid rock, the impressive cliffface cavern consists of three levels with rock stairways and altars. Take the steep walk up to explore its fascinating interior.
Photo: Rana Tanissa
4. TAKE A SCENIC ROAD TRIP
One of the most famous roads in the region is the road from Dennieh to Hermel. Winding around mountains studded with limestone rock and flecked with cedar trees, you will find the region’s native juniper trees. Many of the trees date back centuries and some appear to be growing out of the rocks.
Be ready to make a few stops on the way to take in the awesome scenery and keep your camera handy for some fantastic shots of this remarkable landscape.
Photo: Vamos Todos
5. ENJOY A HIKE
Hermel is the perfect destination for hikers who are looking for a different kind of adventure. Its barren plains offer magnificent views that extend almost all the way across the Bekaa. Go hiking with a tourism provider like Vamos Todos (09 635145, vamos-todos.com).
If you want to experience the real Hermel, consider a camping trip and wake up to an unspoiled vista as the sun rises. For those who prefer to be on a campsite with facilities, the Assi Club (78 900952) and Chir el Assi Rafting Club (03 020498) offer areas where you can pitch a tent.
Photo: Vamos Todos
WHERE TO EAT
Chir el Assi
Sit in the pretty garden area and have a traditional Lebanese meal overlooking the river at Chir el Assi (03 020498).
Jannat Al Assi
Famous for their fresh trout, Jannat Al Assi (03 454980) is a cozy riverside restaurant serving delicious Lebanese food. The glorious Assi and lush greenery beyond form the perfect backdrop to enjoying an extended lunch. Try to stay until the sun sets for a truly memorable experience.
WHERE TO SLEEP
Apart from campsites, there are several eco-lodging options in the area around Hermel.
Al Kwakh
Run by local women, this eco-lodge consists of three traditional houses with mud chimneys. A number of activities, such as hiking, rafting, biking, rock climbing and cooking, can also be arranged for guests.
03 454996/70 359659
Al Jord
Open exclusively during the summer, this eco-lodge provides fully equipped Bedouin-style bungalow tents. Guests can also pitch their own tents on site. Activities like trekking, cycling and donkey riding can be booked through Al Jord as can transportation from Hermel.
03 458702/03 958094
Lazzab Club and Lodge
Located in the heart of the Lazzab forest, this lodge offers simple accommodation in mud huts. It is also possible to pitch a tent on the grounds of the property and guests can take part in the lodge’s organized hiking trips.
03 797569/71 146915, lazzab.net
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