Weaving with banana leaves, palm, and straw is a tradition that has deep roots within the Jordan & Yarmouk Valleys. Fortunately for us, the tradition of weaving is still very much alive in this region today. Meet the local artists that are reviving this tradition and uncover the intricate skills needed to weave a simple product.

Your own woven memento will stand as a reminder of your time in northern Jordan. More intricate designs are available for purchase at the home of the artists. Hopefully this weaving lesson will inspire the next generation of weavers.

What’s Included?

• Weaving tools
• Weaving materials
• hot/cold refreshments

What to bring?

• Rucksack
• Passport/ID
• Snack

10:00 – Yousef’s Honey

Start your day with a trip to the beekeeping- home to several thousands of working honey-bees you’ll discover the secrets of bee colonies and honey production. You will be led through this experience by Yousef, a passionate beekeeper who spends more time with bees than with humans. Spend the morning with Yousef and we’re sure you’ll be convinced that humans have a lot to learn from bees.

12:00 – Alia’s Baskets

Learn how to weave a coaster or basket with the help of a local artist. Alia is learning English and teaching guests the tradition of basket weaving. Uncover the techniques that’ve been used for generations! Intricate baskets of all sizes, materials, and colors are also available for purchase at Beit Al Baraka or at Alia’s home.

14:00 – Galsoum’s Kitchen

Taste the flavours of northern Jordan with a trip to Galsoum’s Kitchen. Sit on Arabic cushions, sip on sweet tea, and discover the unique dishes from northern Jordan. Chacheel is a must try!

16:00 – Site Tour of Gadara

Uncover the rich history of Umm Qais and the Greco-Roman ruins that are located in what was once the heart of this hill-top village. Join a local guide on an English-speaking tour of the Greco-Roman city, the Ottoman Village, and the museum of Gadara. This is a tour that shouldn’t be missed.

18:00 – Romero

Watch the sun slowly set as you eat cold and hot mezza whilst perched above the Yarmouk Valley. Romero is a restaurant located in the heart of the ruins of Gadara. The restaurant employs people from the local community and has done so for many years.

* Contact us via email at reservations@barakadestinations.com for a quotation or a different itinerary suggestion.

Day 1:

Beit Al Baraka

Check-in at Beit Al Baraka begins at 15:00 but we can sometimes arrange an earlier check in. We can also store your bags whilst you experience some of the many activities that the local community offer.

12:00 – Galsoum’s Cooking Class

Find your inner chef with a cooking class with an experienced local chef. Visit one of the many local chef that offer cooking lessons in Um Qais and take away a recipe that will always remind you of your time in northern Jordan.

15:00 – Alia’s Baskets

Learn how to weave a coaster or basket with the help of a local artist. Alia is learning English and teaching guests the tradition of basket weaving. Uncover the techniques that’ve been used for generations! Intricate baskets of all sizes, materials, and colors are also available for purchase at Beit Al Baraka or at Alia’s home.

17:00 – Site Tour of Gadara

Discover the history of Umm Qais with a tour of Gadara, a Greco-Roman city that has stood the test of time. Join a local guide on an English-speaking tour of the Greco-Roman city, the Ottoman Village, and the museum of Gadara. This is a tour that shouldn’t be missed.

18:30 – Romero

Watch the sun slowly set as you eat cold and hot mezza whilst perched above the Yarmouk Valley. Romero is a restaurant located in the heart of the ruins of Gadara. The restaurant employs people from the local community and has done so for many years.

Day 2:

Beit Al Baraka

Check out at Beit Al Baraka is 11:00 but this can sometimes be pushed back so do ask our staff. We can also put your bags in storage until you’re ready to leave us.

09:00 – Philodemus Light Hike

Want to explore the hills surrounding Umm Qais but short on time? The light hike is the perfect option. Join a local guide for a 1-2 hour hike over the rolling hills and learn about the nature, history, and culture of Umm Qais.

11:00 – Duke’s Paradise 

Sip on hot tea in an oasis located at the foot of the Golan Heights. The Duke’s Paradise is an ideal spot for a dip in volcanic water and a stroll within the shaded compound. This was once the holiday home of the Duke of Mukheibeh, the only Duke in Jordan.

* Contact us via email at reservations@barakadestinations.com for a quotation or a different itinerary suggestion.