SPNL’s Doroub Al Hima Trail Manager Leads Inspiring Journey to Shouf Cedar Reserve Amidst the Storm

In an inspiring adventure that showcased resilience and a deep connection to nature, the Doroub Al Hima Trail Project Manager at the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) led an unforgettable journey into the Shouf Cedar Reserve through the Barouk entrance. This remarkable expedition was not just a trek into Lebanon’s rich biodiversity but also a testament to perseverance, as the leader of this experience had recently achieved an extraordinary milestone—reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), Africa’s tallest peak, in March 2024.

🌍 Support the preservation of Lebanon’s natural heritage! Help us maintain and restore the Doroub Al Hima Trail by donating today. Your contribution will aid conservation efforts, ecotourism, and local community empowerment.

🔗 Donate now: https://www.spnl.org/campaigns/support-droub-al-hima-adopt-a-trail/

Together, we can ensure a greener, more sustainable future! 🌱💚 #SupportDoroubAlHima #SPNL #CedarReserve #EcoTourism #NatureConservation #AdoptATrail

Despite the stormy weather, participants embarked on a journey into the heart of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, where towering ancient cedars stood as silent witnesses to history. The experience was a perfect blend of adventure and conservation, highlighting SPNL’s ongoing efforts to protect Lebanon’s natural heritage. The trail through the mist-laden trees and rain-soaked paths provided a unique opportunity for reflection, reinforcing the powerful connection between humans and nature.

“The wind howling through the trees, the rhythmic sound of raindrops, and the sheer majesty of the cedars created a symphony of nature that was both humbling and invigorating,” said the Doroub Al Hima Trail Project Manager, whose recent ascent of Kilimanjaro served as a symbol of endurance and determination. “This journey is more than just a hike—it is about embracing challenges, understanding the resilience of nature, and appreciating the beauty of conservation.”

The Shouf Cedar Reserve, one of the most significant protected areas in Lebanon, is not just a sanctuary for rare cedar trees and wildlife but also a symbol of Lebanon’s ecological and cultural heritage. Through initiatives like the Doroub Al Hima Trail, SPNL continues to promote sustainable ecotourism and conservation awareness, ensuring that future generations can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lebanon’s landscapes.

As the journey came to a close, a sense of peace and accomplishment resonated among the participants. Despite the storm, the experience reaffirmed that true beauty often lies in overcoming challenges. The legacy of this adventure, much like the towering cedars and the Kilimanjaro summit, will stand as a reminder that resilience—whether in nature or in human spirit—is what shapes the most extraordinary journeys.

Al Hima Magazine 5th Issue

This edition of Al Hima magazine weaves together inspiring stories of nature conservation and community resilience, highlighting how Lebanon is being stitched back to life—one Hima at a time. The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) continues its mission to preserve the country’s natural heritage by empowering local communities. A cornerstone of this effort is the BioConnect project, funded by the European Union, which has achieved three national firsts: Lebanon’s first natural park (Upper Matn), first geological park (Shouf-Jezzine), and first endowment Hima (Btekhnay).

Read Previous issues

spot_img
spot_img

More like this

Study Exposes Disconnect Between Conservation Policies and Local Realities...

A groundbreaking study has revealed critical gaps between conservation theory and practice in Lebanon’s biosphere reserves, calling...
Grey-breasted Parakeets © Fábio Nunes / Aquasis

How BirdLife International and the Conservation Leadership Programme Are...

In the sweltering forests of northeastern Brazil, a once-forgotten parrot has reclaimed the skies. Thousands of miles...
"Aammiq Wetland, one of the last remaining freshwater wetlands in Lebanon, serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds and a haven for biodiversity in the Bekaa Valley."
Photo credit: Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) / Aammiq Wetland

Guardians of Nature: How Protected Areas in the Levant...

In the cradle of ancient civilizations, where wars, revolutions, and shifting borders have reshaped landscapes and histories...