Byblos.
Beckoning with a timeless allure that spans millennia, Byblos is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Cobblestone streets whisper secrets of the ancient Phoenicians and the birth of the written word.
From the echoes of Phoenician traders to the footprints of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences, Byblos is a living, breathing tapestry of human history. Explore its labyrinthine alleys in a voyage through time; a symphony of cultures with picturesque charm.
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Baalbek.
An archaeological jewel, Baalbek bears witness to several ancient civilizations. Colossal temples reach to the heavens in a call to the Gods. Scant relics of the Temple of Jupiter display the largest Roman temple ever built.
Meanwhile, well-preserved Temple of Bacchus is a masterpiece in tribute to the god of wine and revelry. In recent years, the site has etched its own contemporary history through the iconic Baalbeck Festival, celebrating music from Lebanon and the Levant.
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Batroun.
A coastal city in the north, Batroun is a haven, equally, for those seeking tranquility and excitement. Picture-postcard streets wind through the souk, where traditional houses and modern boutiques coexist in harmony, culminating at sun-drenched beach bars, and a rich history that traces several centuries.
Bask in the warm embrace of Mediterranean and savour local flavours while relaxing in charming cafés or chic restaurants.
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Tyre (Sûr).
Southern Lebanon’s shining star, Tyre embodies a legendary status in the country’s history. Dating back millennia, a vast archaeological site is found in the heart of the city, steeped with origins of the ancient Phoenicians.
A whispering sea breezes calls visitors to sandy beaches; the best in Lebanon. Triumphal arches and intricate stone buildings define the old town, lit up by vibrant markets. A landmark, the Tyre Hippodrome is a preserved gem for any archaeology buff to enjoy.
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Baatara Gorge.
Breathtaking beauty draws springtime travellers to remote mountains. Melting of the winter’s snow unveils a marvellous cascade: a three-tiered waterfall plunging into a cavernous limestone chasm.
Known as the "Cave of the Three Bridges" due to the overlapping natural arches which frame the falls, the combination is both surreal and sublime — a fusion of water, rock, and light that few places on Earth that can parallel. Stand at the precipice of the abyss and admire one of nature’s most ambitious works of art.
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Cedars of God.
High in the Lebanese mountains, a majestic and spiritual cedar forest enchants visitors from far and wide. Here, the trees themselves tell a story, some dating back thousands of years, standing as towering sentinels observing the very roots of religion.
Cedar trees are cherished as a symbol of Lebanon. This forest is especially significant, cited in the Bible and the Epic of Gilgamesh. A wander through these serene groves presents palpable energy, with an earthy, wooded scent abound the air.
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Kadisha Valley.
Cradled in the heart of Lebanon, Kadisha was carved by the the river from which it takes its name. Steep cliffs are regaled with verdant shrubbery, a shelter for hermit monks who built staggering monasteries along the edges.
It is easy to see why those seeking reflection and devotion to spiritual pursuits would reside here. The valley resonates mystique and grace; a refuge for pilgrims and hikers alike to enjoy their own slice of solitude.
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Qartaba.
Nestled between grandiose mountains, this sleepy town is exceptional for its natural splendour and warm locals. Out here, the air is crisp and fresh with a scent of pine.
Captivating views soothe the soul, casting views over red-tiled roofs to the foot of the ridge that soars overhead. Embark on a hike or be adventurous with your tastebuds and stop by Toubia’s raw meat butchery — helmed by a local character with a great reputation.
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Beiteddine Palace.
An ornate monarch’s residence, Emir Bashir II choose to display the grandeur of Lebanese architecture in his 19th-century masterwork.
Harken back to an era of extravagance when Emirs ruled the land with a harmonious blend of Ottoman, Lebanese, and Italian influences. A marvellous achievement, the palace showcases strokes of artistic brilliance in its intricate mosaics, archways, and lush fountained gardens.
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Anfeh (Enfeh).
A colourful fishing village with links to Phoenician heritage. Nowadays, the enticing azure of the Mediterranean brings visitors to gather at bars perched on the cliffs-edge to admire beautiful sunsets.
Fitting of its history, seafood is a highlight, with time-tested local recipes sure to tantalise your tastebuds. Likened to a ‘mini-Mykonos’ due to its Greek-esque blue and white chalets, this is a photogenic stopover worthy of an overnight stay.
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Tripoli.
Entrenched in history, Lebanon's second city pulses with energy. Bustling markets take up residence in centuries-old souks and a network of maze-like alleyways. Crumbling vestiges of Ottoman rule scatter the medina, including an eerie disused train station with abandoned carriages.
From the ancient walls of its Crusader citadel to the two defining mosques of Mansouri and Taynal, Tripoli conceals a vivid time capsule that rewards adventurous travellers.
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Douma.
Endlessly charming, Douma is a quaint village with cobbled streets and traditional stone houses adorned with free-flowing flowers.
Artisanal crafts and no frills eateries line the souk of Douma, centred around the main thoroughfare of the village; a photographer’s dream where a snapshot of the past is truly worth a thousand words. Beit Douma is a homely guesthouse managed by the team behind Beirut’s Souk El Tayeb, serving healthy and organic Lebanese dishes.
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Bsharri.
A city of immense significance, this mountain paradise is a spiritual and cultural centre with far-reaching influence. As the hometown of celebrated poet Khalil Gibran, a museum was founded here in is honour. Mighty cedar trees encircle the town, extending east to the fabled Cedars of God. Bsharri is hallowed ground for pilgrims who flock to the ‘city of churches’ seeking serenity amidst nature.
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Zahlé.
A sprawling urban area in the lush Bekaa Valley, renowned for its winemaking and cultural scene. Surrounded by vineyards, venture to several wineries where you can delve into the distinct flavours of the region. A somewhat harsh, brutalist structure winds upward for 177ft, upon which Our Lady of Zahlé stands guard over the valley and casts an unrivalled panoramic view.
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Sidon.
Ancient history oozes from corner-to-corner of Sidon. Showcases of a rich history include Dabane Palace and Sidon Sea Castle. Khan el Franj Caravanserai whisks you back in time to the well-trodden Silk Road, while sweethearts wed in style at Ottoman gem Saray Nassib Basha. As bustling as the centre may be, locals take time to share their warm hospitality.
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