Al Saifa-Sifa fortress – Akkar El Atika

Very similar to Ras el Franj, fortress, in Jezzine over the Awali river, in terms of architecture & location. It is perched on a hill in a valley surrounded by mountains and a river. The outlook of the fortress from beneath is terrifying and overwhelming. Few structures remain standing (Fakhr el din II) destroyed it in the 16th century. The Google maps’ location is not precise, once you cross the bridge over the river, take a hard right (parallel to the river) and continue straight until you reach an old mill. The best way to reach the fortress is by going straight up, on the front side of the hill. Do NOT hike through the back nor the middle side. The hike is considered hard and not recommended for kids

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