TARTUS: A privately developed tropical forest on Syria’s Mediterranean coast is attracting growing numbers of visitors, offering an unusual landscape of tropical fruit trees and dense greenery rarely associated with the country.
Located in the village of Blata al-Gharbiya, 3 km north of Tartus province, the site began as a small agricultural project on a single donum, or about 1,000 square meters. Over time, it expanded into a miniature tropical forest featuring species such as papaya, avocado, lychee, dragon fruit and tropical banana.
Visitors say the forest’s dense vegetation and humid atmosphere create a setting unlike many other places in Syria.
Natural pathways, seating areas and rock formations have been integrated into the landscape, turning the site into a destination for day-trippers and nature enthusiasts. (SANA photo)
Hossam al-Din Sawwas, a dentist from Aleppo, said the experience reminded him of a previous visit to Brazil.
Fouad Assani, a merchant from Aleppo, said Syria’s coast remains a popular destination for families seeking a break from urban life and summer heat. He said projects that combine nature and tourism add to the region’s appeal and encourage visitors to explore different parts of the country.
Najla Mazyad, a visitor to the site as part of a group tour to Tartus province, described the forest as one of the trip’s highlights.
“The forest has a special charm that attracts visitors and gives them a different experience,” she said. “It combines natural beauty, tranquility and green scenery.”
As domestic tourism gradually expands, projects such as the tropical forest are drawing attention as examples of small-scale initiatives that blend agriculture, recreation and environmental tourism, offering visitors new ways to experience Syria’s diverse landscapes.
Natural pathways, seating areas and rock formations have been integrated into the landscape, turning the site into a destination for day-trippers and nature enthusiasts. (SANA photo)
