North Lebanon Travel Guide

Plan your trip to North Lebanon with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best activities, must-see attractions, and where to stay and eat in this beautiful region of Lebanon.


Introduction to North Lebanon

North Lebanon is a region in Lebanon known for its diverse cultural and natural attractions. Its history dates back to ancient times, and the region has been influenced by different civilizations, including Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. North Lebanon is a perfect destination for history buffs, adventure seekers, and foodies.

List of Places to Visit in North Lebanon

Whether you want to explore ancient ruins or experience outdoor adventures, North Lebanon has something for everyone. Here are some worth visiting places in North Lebanon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The rich historical heritage of North Lebanon can be explored through its museums and historical sites. Here are some of the significant cultural attractions you should visit:

  • Byblos: The ancient city of Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to 7000 BCE. Visit the Byblos Castle, the Phoenician port, and the Crusader church.
  • Jbeil District: Explore the ancient ruins of different civilizations, including the Roman ruins in Chekka, the crusader castle in Batroun, and the ancient caves in Kfarhata.
  • The Gibran Museum: This museum in Bisharri showcases the artwork and personal artifacts of the renowned Lebanese artist and writer Kahlil Gibran.

Natural Attractions of North Lebanon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, North Lebanon offers many opportunities to explore. Here are some of North Lebanon’s natural attractions:

  • The Cedars of God: This natural reserve in Bcharre is home to Lebanon’s iconic Cedar trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old.
  • Qadisha Valley: This UNESCO World Heritage site near Bcharre is known for its deep canyon, lush forests, and ancient monasteries carved into the rocks.
  • The Jeita Grotto: This natural wonder near Nahr al-Kalb features two interconnecting limestone caves filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Lebanon

North Lebanon is a popular destination for hikers and bikers. The region has many hiking trails and mountain biking routes. Several areas worth exploring, including:

  • Cedars of God: The Cedar Forests of Bcharre has several hiking trails that take you through the forest and rugged terrain.
  • Tannourine Reserve: This natural reserve near the Tannourine Village has hiking routes that showcase scenic valleys, mountains, and caves.
  • Bentael Nature Reserve: Bentael is a popular destination for mountain bikers. The reserve has several challenging biking trails, including the Caza Loop and Bentael-Arz loop.

Best Things to Do in North Lebanon: Activities and Tours

North Lebanon has plenty of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in North Lebanon:

  • Winery tours: North Lebanon has a thriving wine scene. Take a tour of the different wineries and sample Lebanese wines.
  • Jeep tours: Explore the mountains and valleys of North Lebanon with a 4x4 Jeep tour.
  • Skiing: If you are visiting North Lebanon in winter, you can enjoy skiing in the country’s prime ski resort, the Cedars.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Lebanon

If you plan to spend a week in North Lebanon, you can follow this itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit Byblos and Batroun
2 Explore the Cedars of God and Bcharre
3 Hike the Tannourine Reserve
4 Visit the Gibran Museum and tour the wineries
5 Take a Jeep tour in Bentael
6 Explore Qadisha Valley and the Jeita Grotto
7 Ski in the Cedars and enjoy local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of North Lebanon

North Lebanon is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kibbeh: A Lebanese national dish made of minced meat, bulgur wheat, onions, and spices.
  • Manakish: A savory pastry with a variety of toppings, including cheese, meat, and vegetables.
  • Fattoush: A refreshing salad made of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and crispy Lebanese bread.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A traditional Lebanese anise-flavored alcoholic drink.
  • Wine: Lebanese wine is renowned worldwide for its quality and diversity. Try some of the local wines, including Chateau Kefraya, Chateau Musar, and Ixsir.

Where to Stay in North Lebanon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Lebanon has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Lorizon Hotel: A luxurious hotel in Jbeil with sea views and top-notch amenities.
  • The Ehden Country Club: A cozy guesthouse in Ehden with a serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
  • Cedrus Chalets: A family-owned chalet rental in the heart of the Cedars forest.

What to Buy in North Lebanon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North Lebanon offers unique souvenir options that will remind you of your trip. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Embroidered textiles: North Lebanon is known for its hand-embroidered textiles, including tablecloths, pillow covers, and bedspreads.
  • Olive oil: Lebanon produces high-quality olive oil, which is ideal as a gift or souvenir.
  • Lebanese sweets: Treat yourself and loved ones to some Lebanese sweets, including baklava, maamoul, and karabij.

Local Culture and Customs of North Lebanon

North Lebanon is a conservative region with a strong cultural identity. Here are some customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly: As a sign of respect for the local culture, dress modestly when visiting religious places or in rural areas.
  • Hospitality: Lebanese people take pride in their hospitality. It is common to be invited for coffee or tea as a sign of welcome.
  • Ramadan: If you visit during Ramadan, be aware that some restaurants and shops may be closed during the day.

Best Time to Visit North Lebanon

The best time to visit North Lebanon is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush. If you plan to ski, winter is a perfect season, with snow-covered peaks.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Lebanon

Here are some things you should do and avoid during your stay in North Lebanon:

Do:

  • Learn some Arabic: It will help you communicate with the locals, who may not speak fluent English.
  • Try the local cuisine: Lebanon is known for its delicious cuisine, so indulge in some of their traditional dishes.
  • Haggle: Bargaining is common in Lebanese markets, especially for souvenirs.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water: It is recommended to drink bottled water to avoid health issues.
  • Show public displays of affection: It’s not common to display affection in public in Lebanon.
  • Take pictures of military installations: Avoid taking pictures of military installations, as it could be seen as suspicious.

Safety and Health

North Lebanon is a safe region with high-security measures, but you should take basic precautions like you would when traveling to any new destination.

Safety in North Lebanon

  • Avoid political demonstrations: Lebanon is often politically unstable, and there may be political demonstrations. Avoid these areas.
  • Be aware of pickpockets: As with any tourist destination, pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas.
  • Avoid the Syrian Border: Do not travel near the Syrian border as it can be dangerous.

Health in North Lebanon

  • Get vaccinated: Before traveling to North Lebanon, make sure you are up-to-date on your routine vaccinations.
  • Be cautious with food and water: Only drink bottled water and be careful with street food to avoid getting stomach infections.
  • Use sunscreen: The sun can be strong in North Lebanon, so use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.

Getting to North Lebanon: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Lebanon is easily accessible by different modes of transportation. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near North Lebanon

The closest airport to North Lebanon is the Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, located about 70 km south of Tripoli.

Bus Stations Near North Lebanon

There are several bus stations in Beirut that offer transportation to Tripoli and other towns in North Lebanon.

Other Options

  • Rent a car: Renting a car is an option to explore the region, but be aware of the heavy traffic and narrow roads.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in North Lebanon, but it’s essential to negotiate the price beforehand.
  • Uber: Uber is also available in North Lebanon, and it’s a convenient option for short-distance trips.

How to Get Around in North Lebanon

The best way to explore North Lebanon is to rent a car. However, if you prefer to use public transport, you can take a bus or taxi. Some places like the Cedars of God, Tannourine Reserve, and Qadisha Valley require hiking or walking.

Where to Go Next from North Lebanon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re traveling to Lebanon, you might want to explore other nearby destinations from North Lebanon, including:

  • Beirut: The capital city of Lebanon is only 70 km south of North Lebanon.
  • Tripoli: The second-largest city of Lebanon has a rich history and stunning architecture.
  • The Bekaa Valley: This region in eastern Lebanon is known for its vineyards, Roman ruins, and mountain scenery.

Conclusion

North Lebanon offers an impressive mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. From ancient ruins and museums to hiking trails and winery tours, there is something for everyone here. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to North Lebanon.

Mar Sarkhis monastery in the Kadisha Valley Mar Sarkhis monastery in the Kadisha Valley


    Batroun
    Tripoli