Barouk reserve entrance - Lake - Khetyara Tree - Massyaf el Mir - Lamartine Tree - Maaser el Shouf (Shouf Cedar Reserve)

**Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve: A Journey Through Ancient Forests and Scenic Trails**

The Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, which comprises a quarter of Lebanon's remaining cedar forests, was designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in July 2005. Covering about 5% of Lebanon's total area, this reserve boasts trees estimated to be 2,000 years old. While the main entrances are Ain Zhalta, Barouk, and Maasser, there are also lesser-known entry points at Mresti, Jbaa, and Niha.

**Exploring the Barouk Reserve**

Starting at the Barouk entrance, we took the Acacia Trail, which branches left shortly after entering. This trail features a moderate yet lengthy non-technical ascent of around 300 meters before reaching the first possible road exit. From there, the path continues upwards, though the incline becomes gentler, leading to a picturesque lake.

After visiting my baby cedar tree near the lake, we headed towards "The Khetyara," one of the oldest cedar trees, estimated to be 3,000 years old. Before reaching this ancient tree, hikers can choose to take the "panoramic trail" leading to Massyaf el Mir. We opted to bypass this route, continuing on a short stretch of road before taking a stunning trail to Massyaf el Mir from the south. The panoramic trail, while beautiful, skips this extraordinary section, which I highly recommend experiencing.

Massyaf el Mir is an ideal spot for rest and photography, especially on Sundays when it tends to be more crowded due to car access from the main entrance. After leaving Massyaf el Mir, look for the sign indicating the LMT section 19 heading to Maasser el Shouf. This part of the trail features fewer cedar trees and more open spaces, offering a clear path leading to the Maasser el Shouf Cedars and the majestic "Lamartine Cedar Tree" near the Maasser reserve entrance.

**The Legacy of Alphonse de Lamartine**

Alphonse de Lamartine, an Orientalist with a keen interest in Lebanon and the Middle East, traveled to Lebanon, Syria, and the Holy Land in 1832-33. During his visit to Lebanon, he met Prince Bashir Shihab II and Prince Simon Karam, both poetry enthusiasts. In honor of his visit, a valley in Lebanon is named the Valley of Lamartine, and the "Lamartine Cedar" still stands in the cedar forest, marking the spot where he reportedly sat nearly 200 years ago. (From wikipedia)

**Final Leg to Maasser el Shouf Village**

From the Lamartine Cedar Tree, you can either exit at the Maasser entrance or take the trail down to Maasser el Shouf village. At this part, we had a GPS error and the trail from Lamartine tree to the entrance is not accurate but it's easy to follow the clear trail. This part of the trail to Maasser village is wilder and less frequented, with minimal blazing, making it easy to stray off course. However, venturing off-trail added to the adventure of the hike. The descent is long, eventually connecting with the lower trail from Maasser to Barouk, where a gentle ascent brings you back to the starting point.

Enjoy this breathtaking part of Lebanon, and remember to keep it clean. I welcome any comments or reviews of my trails. It's also important to note that the Shouf Reserve allows pets, especially dogs, provided they are kept on a leash.