Jetsettersblog

(6 Days, £745pp) – New Tour Launch

Discover the most captivating country in the Middle East – Lebanon – in true off-the-beaten-track style. Having emerged triumphant from its turbulent past, now is the time to explore Lebanon’s remotest corners on foot.

Hike through the verdant and historic Qadisha Valley discovering the stunning nature and fascinating history of this little visited region.

Stay overnight in an 18th Century Maronite monastery, experience a true Lebanese welcome by staying and eating with a local family, visit a hermit, hike through a stunning Cedar forest, experience the dramatic Baatara sinkhole and explore the unique Jeita’s Grotto!

Travel the Unknown’s Hiking the Holy Valleys is a 6-day itinerary that starts and ends in Beirut(www.traveltheunknown.com , tel: 0845 053 0352).

Highlights of the tour include:

- Exploring Jeita’s Grotto, the incredible caves with one of the world’s most impressive collection of stalagmites and stalactites.

- Experience the warmth of Lebanese hospitality by staying overnight with a local family overlooking the Nahr Brahim valley and Adonis river.

- See the curious ‘smoking hole’ where the Adonis River disappears underground for 70m before surging up again forming a high column of water vapour that looks like a forest fire.

- Hike through the dramatic Baatara Sinkhole and the Tannourine gorge.

- Spend the night in an 18th Century Monastery.

- Hike to the heart of the scenic UNESCO-listed Qadisha Valley, the abode of numerous monks and hermits since medieval times.

The price of £745pp includes accommodation, ground transport, most meals, 3 litres of water per day, English speaking guide, drivers, activities, entrance fees to sites and carbon-offsetting fee.

Dates:

30 October – 4 November 2010

26 March – 31 March 2011

For those who prefer a gentler cultural tour, Travel The Unknown also offer the 6-day Crusaders & Caves tour which delves into the ancient history of this fascinating and misunderstood land (£850pp).