Kassab كسب

Kassab (كسب) is one of the most attractive mountain resort towns in the whole of Syria. The town is predominantly Christian, mostly Armenian, and many from Lattakia (اللاذقية) and Aleppo (حلب) maintain vacation homes here. During the summer, demographics can change considerably as Syrians from around the country come here for vacation.

Kassab (كسب) has numerous hotels, though those on a budget would be better off staying in Lattakia (اللاذقية). There are many restaurants and shops, and a couple fast food places in the center of town. The town itself, only developed as a resort in recent decades, has some traditional rural stone architecture, a few examples of which have been beautifully restored. There are also numerous churches around the town. The countryside here is more densely forested than around Slenfeh (صلنفة), making it more attractive even if the views aren’t as commanding. There are many lakes nearby, and a stunning beach on the Mediterranean accessible from the neighboring village of al-Samra (السمرا). This is perhaps the most beautiful area in Syria for hiking.

 

Getting There: Frequent microbuses travel between Lattakia (اللاذقية) and Kassab (كسب) throughout the year, generally until the early evening. They are more frequent and run longer hours in the summer. They depart from the main microbus station in Lattakia (اللاذقية). The trip takes between 45 minutes and an hour. Occasional microbuses connect Kassab (كسب) directly with Aleppo (حلب), primarily in the summer. There is a border crossing point with Turkey just to the southeast of town.

Coordinates: 35°55’44.21″N / 35°59’08.61″E

Transliteration Variants: Kasab, Kessab, Kesab

Rating: 6 / 10