Kaftoun - Majdal - Kfarhelda (Part of Nahr el Joz/ Darb el Mseilha/ Darb el Tahoun)

This time my direction was north to Nahr el Joz, separating the casa of Koura and Batroun. I used to avoid this area because it is usually crowded especially the lower part of Darb el Mseilha trail. It's not a "high season" for occasional hikers so it was the perfect time to explore calmly. There's a main valley trail that goes from Batroun (Mseilha) to Tannourine (not fully blazed till now), and there are many side trails that connect the villages around the valley to the main trail. The project is an amazing one and is called "Nahr el Joz, Darb el Mseilha, Darb el Tahoun". We started from Kaftoun village (side trail) where you can find a sign indicating the trail leading to Nahr el Joz. The trail if fully blazed and offers superb views all around. It is a balcony walk overlooking Nahr el Joz valley (you will be walking there on the way back). Autumn season creates a splendid mix of colors. There are many spots for rest and picnicking on your way. Unfortunately you will find trash at many points of this trail especially around the waterfalls (what a shame!). The trail is technically easy and suitable for all hikers. Some parts are exposed but not dangerous. Metallic chains are installed here but they are not really needed. At some point, the balcony trail intersects with the valley trail and continues to the famous Bssatin el Ossi/ Kfarhelda waterfalls. You will reach first the lower waterfall and you have to go higher to reach the stunning higher one. It hurts to see the amount of trash around the waterfalls! Now I can imagine the number of disgusting people visiting this stunning place. Some people don't deserve the beauty of Lebanon and I wish they can be banned from going outdoors! After the Waterfalls unique experience, we went higher to the village where we took another trail leading back to the valley. There was a common part for the way back. At some point, we left the common trail and went zigzagging down to the river where we found a beautiful old ottoman bridge. The valley trail is simply amazing. You will find old mills, ruins and many camping spots. Take your time to enjoy the beauty of the walk. The trail leads to a hydroelectric plant. Here you have the option to walk the road that takes you back to Kaftoun, or continue in the valley towards Saydet Kaftoun, a beautiful monastery in the valley. Before reaching the monastery, you can stay on the trail going up to Boqsmaya but you will then a long walk on the road (or take a car from there). Instead of doing this, we took the trail leading to the monastery and found ourselves in a field of tasty oranges :). We finally caught the monastery main road going up to Kaftoun. This road part is pleasant and you will not encounter many cars on your way. Enjoy this beautiful hike and keep it clean (there's already enough rubbish!). I will go back to this area and explore more trails! Stay tuned :)