The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) has established an eco-trail named “Doroub Al-Hima,” stretching 83 kilometers across several villages in the Aley District. This initiative serves as a model that reflects the region’s rich biodiversity and highlights the importance of integrating nature conservation with sustainable tourism.
This trail aims to promote eco-tourism and sustainable tourism by providing a unique experience for nature enthusiasts. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes, discover diverse flora and fauna, and engage with local culture and heritage. The project also supports rural communities by creating sustainable economic opportunities through the promotion of local products and eco-friendly tourism services.
Doroub Al-Hima passes through natural areas, valleys, and highlands, offering hikers the chance to enjoy the beauty of nature and interact with the region’s unique ecosystems. Additionally, the project seeks to enhance environmental awareness and encourage responsible tourism practices that conserve natural resources and protect biodiversity.
Support from the EU-Funded BioConnect Project
The development of Doroub Al-Hima was made possible through funding from the EU-funded BioConnect project, which supports initiatives that foster nature conservation, community engagement, and sustainable livelihoods. The financial support has enabled SPNL to develop and maintain the eco-trail, enhance local infrastructure, and build the capacity of local communities in the field of eco-tourism and environmental conservation.
Through BioConnect’s funding, SPNL has also worked on restoring natural habitats, providing training for local guides, and developing interpretative materials that enrich visitors’ experiences while raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation. The funding has been instrumental in empowering local communities, ensuring that they benefit economically from eco-tourism while actively participating in the protection of their natural heritage.
Reviving the “Hima” Concept for a Sustainable Future
Through this trail, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon reaffirms its commitment to environmental conservation and the promotion of the “Hima” concept, an ancient tradition of protecting natural resources. By integrating traditional conservation practices with modern eco-tourism strategies, Doroub Al-Hima stands as a leading model for sustainable eco-tourism in Lebanon and the region.
With the support of the BioConnect project, this initiative not only safeguards Lebanon’s natural and cultural heritage but also contributes to economic resilience by providing sustainable income sources for rural communities, further cementing the role of eco-tourism as a tool for conservation and development.
