Lush scenery, springs, lakes and rivers, dense forests and authentic Lebanese hospitality — what more could you want? Here’s what’s waiting for you at Anjar Eco Park, a one-of-a-kind retreat nestled in the heart of the Bekaa Valley.
Anjar is a pretty town with a large Armenian population. Indeed, visitors will find no fewer than three Armenian churches there, not to mention several Armenian schools and clubs.
Besides its well-known restaurants and iconic Umayyad ruins, Anjar has grown in popularity as a hiking destination, boasting a number of nature spots.
It all began in 2011, when the Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (LRI) planted 50,000 plants on a 50-hectare plot as part of it reforestation project in Anjar. The effectiveness of the methods used yielded to a 90 percent success rate, producing a divine dense forest.
As a result, the municipality of Anjar proposed the creation an eco park under the Livelihood in Forestry (LiF) project, funded by the USAID and implemented by LRI, in partnership with Anjar Municipality and Homentemen Club – Anjar, to turn the forest into a rural tourism destination to benefit the local community while also promoting Lebanon’s ecotourism.
Being the first national forestry conservation park in Lebanon, Anjar Eco Park seeks to strengthen the capacities of Anjar’s youth. It reflects the concepts of natural resource protection, sustainable rural development, ecotourism, youth participation and livelihood support. Located in the heart of the village, it emphasizes all of Anjar’s tourist attractions and promotes locally made products in its nature shop.
Hikers can look forward to majestic scenery: stark mountains, lush wetlands and vast green plains. You can also enjoy a bike ride, go strawberry picking or harvest fresh organic vegetables.
A journey to Anjar is unique in that it involves not only the park’s experiences but also the area’s many cultural landmarks, including the Anjar Art Gallery and Musa Ler Museum. Foodies will also be spoiled for choice, with a wide variety of dining options.
Furthermore, guesthouses, bungalows and hotels can be found in the town, offering different lodging options to suit all budgets.
To learn more about Anjar Eco Park, visit anjarecopark.com or call +961 8 622 792.
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