Community based, Adventure spirit,
Preserving heritage and traditions
BTA - Crafting Unforgettable Journeys in Bchaaleh, Where Every Trail Tells a Story
Our Mission
Bchaaleh Trails Association is dedicated to preserving and sharing the village’s natural and cultural heritage, from its millennium olive trees to its living traditions.
Through sustainable, inclusive tourism experiences, we connect visitors with Bchaaleh’s landscapes, history, and daily life while empowering the community to lead, collaborate, and shape the future of their home.
Our Vision
We envision Bchaaleh as a living village destination, where every path, tree, and tradition tells a story. A place where nature, culture, and community life are preserved, celebrated, and experienced through tourism that is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in local pride.
About Us
Bchaaleh Trails Association (BTA)
Bchaaleh Trails Association (BTA) is a community-led non-governmental organization officially registered in 2022, emerging from local tourism efforts launched in 2018 through the development of a 28 km hiking trail network in collaboration with the Municipality of Bchaaleh and the Bchaaleh Association for Development. Through their work as local guides, its founders recognized Bchaaleh’s wider tourism potential beyond hiking, leading to the creation of new experiences and, ultimately, to the establishment of BTA.
In 2023, the Ecomuseum of Olive Tree Culture in Bchaaleh was inaugurated with the support of the Municipality of Bchaaleh, the Maronite Eparchy of Batroun, the Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO, and the Ministry of Culture. Spread across the village rather than housed in a single building, it invites visitors into an immersive journey through the millennium olive trees, local traditions, craftsmanship, foodways, and everyday community life.
Bchaaleh is part of the Routes of the Olive Tree, a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe. It is also connected to the Lebanon Mountain Trail Association through the side trail: Noah’s Olive Trail. In addition, Bchaaleh forms part of the St. Charbel Trail (A2 section). In 2026, BTA became an affiliated member of the Med Trails Network (MTN). Together, these affiliations reinforce Bchaaleh’s visibility and credibility as a distinctive rural destination within wider cultural, pilgrimage, and trail tourism networks.
In 2025, the Sustainable Inclusive Tourism initiative was launched, positioning Bchaaleh as Lebanon’s first inclusive rural village, with accessible trails, facilities, halls, toilets, parking, and guesthouses, and strengthening its commitment to welcoming, meaningful, and more accessible tourism experiences for all.
BTA offers more than activities: it curates experiences rooted in place, local knowledge, and community relationships. For tour operators and visitors alike, it is a trusted local partner for distinctive rural, cultural, and nature-based experiences delivered with authenticity, flexibility, and purpose.
Our Unique Experiences
At BTA, we curate a range of experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Our goal is to immerse you in the heart of Bchaaleh, allowing you to connect with its rich heritage and vibrant community. Here are some of the extraordinary experiences we offer:
Diverse Hiking Trails
Our meticulously designed hiking trails, spanning 28 km, cater to hikers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced enthusiast, our trails offer breathtaking views, historical sites, and a connection to the natural beauty of Bchaaleh. Choose from themed hikes such as sunset hikes, snowshoeing adventures, or full moon hikes with camping.
Millennial Olive Trees Tour
Explore the enchanting world of the world’s oldest olive trees, a UNESCO-recognized natural heritage. Engage in guided tours that unveil the tangile and intangible cultural heritage surrounding these ancient trees.
Cultural Immersion
Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Bchaaleh. Visit the seven historical monasteries, explore caves, sarcophagi, and traditional agricultural rooms “Mantaras”. Wander through the ruins of Al Hossen fortress, and discover the unrevealed archaeological city. Our village, adorned with traditional houses, offers a unique blend of natural, rural, historical, and authentic experiences.
Agrotourism Fusion
Indulge your taste buds in the authentic flavors of Bchaaleh. Our experiences combine hiking with local food traditions. Join us for cherry, apple, and olive picking seasons, where you can engage in agrotourism activities while savoring the fresh produce of the region.
Inclusive Adventures
BTA is committed to inclusion. Our hiking trails are blazed, marked, and well-maintained, ensuring accessibility for all. We are working towards creating spaces and activities tailored for people with disabilities, providing an opportunity for everyone to experience the wonders of Bchaaleh.