Freinds of Zabadani Society

The society was founded in 28- 11 -1998 The founding members are 15 Its Goals: Protecting the Environment and Nature in Al Zabadani area in Syria, protecting the green areas in Zabadani, Raising Environmental awarness for Locals and Tourists who visit this area. Reviving the Old Train trail as it represents the old Syrian Culture Protecting the Ruins and Historical sites in Al Zabadani area.

Descreption of Al Zabadani Area by Dr. Zubyada Taha — last modified 2008-08-13 00:27

In the vicinity of Damascus, a number of places serve as touristic attractions. A summer resort some 45 kilometers north of Damascus, 1175 meters above sea-level, overlooks the plain of Zabadani, a fertile land with thousands of fruit trees bearing delicious apples, cherries, plums, peaches and pears. The source of the river Barada is in this plain and it supplies Damascus with water, and irrigates the Ghuta around the city. The source of the river forms a little lake that is surrounded by cafes, restaurants and playgrounds. Attracted by its fresh air and beautiful scenery, Damascenes rush to this resort on hot summer days. The area has many hotels and restaurants, cafes and camping sites situated near the banks of the river. Many Damascenes, however, prefer another nearby resort, Bludan at 1500 meters above sea-level, which spreads over the mountain overlooking Zabadani. It is a cool environment with impressive scenery, especially at sunset. This geographic region also has plenty of hotels, restaurants and cafes that cater to the needs of all types of visitors. Most notable among them is the Grand Hotel, with its spacious terrace that overlooks the entire Zabadani plain. Also on the hill top between Zabadani and Bludan, lies the village of Buqein with its famous mineral-spring gushing out of the hillside. It is customary for visitors to stop here and sample its fresh water. It is now bottled commodity and sold in hotels, restaurants and shops throughout the Middle East. Recreation spots near Damascus are numerous and varied. In the Western Ghuta on the banks of the river Barada, you will find hundreds of them concealed under the shade of poplar and willow trees. The main resting-spots in this valley are: Ein Al Fijeh, Ein Al-Khadra, Bassemeh, Al- Ashrafieh, AL-Hameh and AL- Rabweh. The Eastern Ghuta, where the International Airport is located, is also a most attractive part of the Damascus environs. It is full fruit orchards with apricot, peach, apple and pear trees.