The most beautiful natural sites to discover Beqaa

200 m south-east of Deir Mar Maroun (the monastery of Saint-Maron) has emerged three sources (Dafache, Ain Zarka and Lahoue), including the «blue source» of the Orontes (Nahr el-Assi), also known as the «toppled river» or the «rebel river» because it flows from south to north.

This biblical landscape, in which the greenery contrasts with the kilometres of desert that stretches just a few feet away, invites to meditate and rest.

By taking from the Acropolis, the main street crossing the city centre and continuing it over 1 km towards the restaurant district, you will reach the source of Ras el-Ain, a pleasant haven of freshness from many canals feeding the city and the gardens. There are still vestiges of a nymphée and a small Roman sanctuary. We also note the remains of a mosque dating back to 1277.

7 km south of Qab Elias in the direction of Lake Qaraoun, the Marécages wetlands occupy 280 hectares. The Ammiq region is a humid area classified by the Ramsar Convention (which aims to prevent the degradation of wetlands around the world). This private area is one of the largest swamps in the Bekaa and is on one of the bird migration routes in the Middle East. In total, more than 250 species of birds were registered in the sector. Some are threatened, such as pelicans, glaréoles, cranes, storks and snipe. In addition to its large variety of birds, a wide variety of animals live in and around the marsh. 23 mammal species were registered: wild cats, otters, reptiles and frogs. An observation zone has been set up. In addition, some tour associations and tour operators organise visits.