Bkassine Pine Forest
One of the largest umbrella pine forests in the Middle East, covering the hills around a village near Jezzine.
Updated 1 September 2026
The forest around Bkassine covers roughly a hundred and seventy hectares of stone pine, the umbrella-shaped species grown for its edible nuts, and it is among the largest stands of its kind in the region. Paths and tracks run through it, there is a campsite and picnic ground, and the village itself keeps a stock of old stone houses with red tile roofs. Pine nut harvesting is still a local trade and the cones are collected in autumn.
What's there
- The pine stand - around 170 hectares of umbrella pine, one of the region's largest.
- The forest paths - walking tracks and picnic areas under the canopy.
- The village - red-roofed stone houses at the edge of the forest.
- The nut harvest - cone collection in autumn, still a working trade.
When to go
April to November is the season, with autumn the best for colour and the pine nut harvest. Summer weekends bring picnickers in numbers. Winter is cold and quiet.
Things to know
Weekend crowds and barbecue smoke can spoil the quiet in summer. Litter is a problem in the picnic areas. Facilities beyond the campsite are minimal.
Nearby
Jezzine is five kilometres away, and the Chouf is north.
What to pack for Bkassine Pine Forest
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Shelter suited to the place - Tent, tarp or hut booking - match it to the terrain and rules. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- A warm sleeping bag + mat - Rated a little colder than you expect the nights to be. Find on Amazon
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