Baskinta Hike With Vamos Todos

Literary Hike in Baskinta

Baskinta, whose name derives from the Syriac word meaning “house of wisdom,” lies in the Metn district of Mount Lebanon at 1,200 meters above sea level, about 40 km from Beirut. Surrounded by Mount Sannine to the east and open to a valley to the west, the village has long been known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is also the birthplace of renowned Lebanese writer and philosopher Mikhael Neaime.

This hike follows Baskinta’s literary trail, passing through forests, streams, and spring landscapes while highlighting important cultural landmarks linked to Lebanese literature and history. In spring, melting snow from Mount Sannine feeds numerous streams that run along the trail, while wildflowers cover the moist ground.

Along the route, participants will discover several sites connected to prominent writers and historical figures, including Mikhael Neaime’s mausoleum, the Abdallah Ghanem Cultural Center, Roman rock inscriptions, the Sayf el Dawla Cave, the abandoned family house of writer Sleiman Kettaneh, Saidet el Khalleh Church, and the mausoleum of poet George Ghanem.

The hike begins in Chakhroub near the statue of Mikhael Neaime and continues along forest paths and dirt roads before reaching Baskinta village.

Level: 5
Date: Sunday, March 15