Ahlan, Lebanon!
Discover Lebanon’s Hidden Gems
By Isabel Morford-Cheibub
Although Lebanon is the second smallest country in the Middle East, it has a wealth of culture and history to offer its visitors. From delicious food to breathtaking scenery, you will be shocked by how much can be packed into such a small country. A typical travel itinerary can be found here, but travelers who want to venture beyond the normal attractions should keep on reading!
A Day in Beirut
Finding hidden gems in Beirut is difficult, as it is the capital. However, these three stops are sure to spice up any visit to the city!
First up, the Alternative Walking Tour through different neighborhoods of Beirut. This tour is designed to show the good, the bad, and the ugly of the real Beirut. Your guide will tell you about the city’s past and present through stories about complex topics, like the 15-year civil war, the emergence of gentrification, and the political, social, and economic complexities and nuances. You can book a tour on the website or on the Facebook page.
After all that walking, you are bound to be hungry. Head over to T-Mourbuta, a café nestled in the corner of a plaza near the American University of Beirut. The hustle and bustle of the street will fade as soon as you step into the café and the outdoor patio is good mix of relaxing and stylish. Order some traditional mezze dishes or try one of their kebab burgers.
Once the sun sets, catch a show at Beirut’s underground bunker bar, B018. Check their website for the schedule of live music. If there is no show on, the bar becomes a nightclub with delicious drinks and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. B018 is also located right by Armenia Street, which has a host of other bars and restaurants for a late-night snack.
Explore the Natural Beauty
Afqa Waterfall: Have you ever heard the myth of Aphrodite and her mortal lover, Adonis? According to the Lebanese, the pair shared their first kiss at the Afqa Waterfall at the head of the Ibrahim River, just an hour and fifteen minutes north of Beirut. The waterfall lets out into a beautiful swimming hole and the river continues along through a few more waterfalls before letting out into the Mediterranean.
Qadisha Valley: Named after the Aramaic word for “holy,” this valley is believed to have been a sanctuary for Christian monks seeking solitude since the early years of Christianity. The valley has multiple hiking trails, as well as a handful of monasteries open to visitors. The Monastery of Qozhaya sits near the top of the valley and offers a breathtaking view of the scenery below.
Jezzine Waterfall: The town of Jezzine holds another one of Lebanon’s beautiful and refreshing waterfalls. Located in the heart of the town, visitors can climb down to the water, or admire it from afar at one of the overlooking restaurants. There is also an open-air market, or souq, right by the falls!
Lebanese Beaches: Whether you are coming from a landlocked country or state, or you are an avid beach-goer, a beach day is a great way to see more of the country and swim in the Mediterranean Sea! Most of the beaches in Beirut have been privatized over the past couple of decades (read more about this controversy here), but those who are willing to venture a bit farther will be rewarded by blue water and soft sand! Try Joining Beach or Bahsa Beach in the north or Jiyeh Beach or Tyre Beach in the south.
Architectural Delights
Saydet el Hosn: The town of Ehden in the northeast of Lebanon is known for its ski facilities and the 23 Christian worship sites. One of them, Saydet el Hosn / Church of our Lady of the Fort, was built on the remains of an old fort. The inside of the church is only open to visitors occasionally, but the exterior is a fascinating combination of sharp angles and subdued tones. The grounds offer a spectacular view, with the Mediterranean stretching out in one direction and more mountains towering in the other.
Qasr el Ahlam: The Palace of Dreams was designed and built by Mohamad Hawchar, who took 25 years to collect all the stones for the project. At first glance, this structure appears Gaudi-esque, but a closer look will reveal the intricate and unique design. Visit the castle in the northern town of Bakhaoun.
Beiteddine Palace: Built by the Shihab dynasty at the turn of the 19th century, this palace features beautiful mosaics, carved cedar doors, and intricate woodwork. If you visit during the summer, you may run into the Lebanese president, who keeps part of the grounds as his summer home. Learn more about the history here.
Dive into History
Deir al Qamar Synagogue: Located in the historic town of Deir al Qamar, this synagogue is the oldest one in the country. The synagogue has not been in use for religious purposes since the 19th century, but the building has been maintained. It is currently used as a French cultural center.
Gibran Museum: Gibran Khalil Gibran is considered one of the greatest Lebanese writers and artists, so it is not surprising that there is a museum dedicated to him! The museum is housed in a former monastery that Gibran purchased for his retirement. After his death, it was converted to a biographical tribute. Today, visitors can see his artwork, read excerpts of his written pieces, and learn more about this public figure.
Tourist Landmark of the Resistance: This museum is dedicated to the Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000, following 15 years of its occupation in the south of the country. The political party and militant group Hezbollah was the primary opponent to the Israeli Defense Forces during that fight and its members created the museum in 2010 to mark the 10th anniversary of their victory.
**Visitors should note that the museum is maintained by Hezbollah members, and all admissions and sales go to the group. Furthermore, visitors are expected to dress conservatively and avoid public displays of affection with members of the opposite sex.