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Cedars of God, لبنان - Things to Do in Cedars of God

Cedars of God

Cedars of God, لبنان - Complete Travel Guide

The Cedars of God (Arz el-Rab) in Lebanon's Kadisha Valley represents one of the world's most sacred and ancient forest reserves, home to Lebanon's iconic cedar trees that have stood for over 1,000 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located at an elevation of 2,000 meters in the mountains of northern Lebanon, contains some of the last remaining groves of the legendary Lebanese cedars that once covered the region's mountainsides and were prized by ancient civilizations for construction of temples and ships. located near the town of Bsharri, the Cedars of God offers visitors a profound connection to Lebanon's natural and cultural heritage, surrounded by the dramatic landscape of the Kadisha Valley. The site combines spiritual significance with outdoor adventure opportunities, serving as both a pilgrimage destination and a gateway to Lebanon's mountain wilderness. The ancient trees, some reaching heights of 40 meters with trunks spanning several meters in diameter, create a cathedral-like atmosphere that has inspired reverence for millennia.

Top Cedars of God

the Ancient Cedar Grove

Walk among the majestic Lebanese cedars, some over 1,500 years old, in this sacred forest that has been revered since biblical times. The well-maintained trails wind through the grove, offering close encounters with these massive trees and interpretive signs explaining their historical and ecological significance. The peaceful atmosphere and towering canopy create an almost mystical experience that connects visitors to Lebanon's ancient heritage.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $3-5 USD per person. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. No advance booking required, but consider hiring a local guide for $15-20 to learn about the trees' history and ecological importance.

Hike the Kadisha Valley Trails

start scenic hiking trails that descend into the holy Kadisha Valley, exploring ancient monasteries, hermit caves, and traditional villages carved into the mountainsides. The trails offer varying difficulty levels, from gentle walks to challenging mountain hikes, all providing spectacular views of Lebanon's rugged mountain landscape. The valley's spiritual significance as a refuge for early Christians adds cultural depth to the natural beauty.

Booking Tip: Trails are free to access, but hiring a local guide costs $25-40 per day and is highly recommended for safety and cultural insights. Best hiking season is April-October. Wear proper hiking boots and carry water, as some trails are steep and rocky.

Gibran Museum

Discover the life and works of Khalil Gibran, Lebanon's most famous poet and author of 'The Prophet,' in his hometown museum housed in a former monastery. The museum displays original manuscripts, paintings, and personal belongings of the literary giant, while offering insights into his philosophy and artistic vision. The building itself, carved into the mountainside, provides beautiful views over the Kadisha Valley.

Booking Tip: Admission costs approximately $5 USD. Open daily except Mondays, 9 AM-5 PM. Allow 1-2 hours for the visit. Photography inside requires an additional fee. The museum can get crowded on weekends, so weekday visits are preferable.

Ski at Cedars Ski Resort

Experience Lebanon's premier ski destination, located at the highest altitude in the Middle East, offering excellent powder snow and panoramic mountain views. The resort features slopes for all skill levels, modern lift systems, and the unique experience of skiing among cedar trees. During summer, the area transforms into a mountain retreat with hiking trails and cool mountain air.

Booking Tip: Ski season runs December-April, with day passes costing $30-50 USD. Equipment rental available on-site for $20-30 per day. Book accommodation in advance during peak season. Summer visits are free and offer hiking and mountain biking opportunities.

Ancient Monasteries and Churches

Visit the historic monasteries and churches scattered throughout the Kadisha Valley, including Qadisha Grotto and Saint Anthony of Qozhaya Monastery, some dating back to the 4th century. These sacred sites, built into cliff faces and mountain caves, showcase remarkable Byzantine and Maronite architecture while telling the story of early Christian monasticism. Many contain ancient frescoes, religious artifacts, and offer peaceful spaces for reflection.

Booking Tip: Most monasteries are free to visit, though donations are appreciated. Dress modestly and respectfully. Some remote monasteries require hiking to reach. Best visited with a guide who can explain the religious and historical significance, costing $20-30 for half-day tours.

Getting There

The Cedars of God is located approximately 120 kilometers northeast of Beirut, accessible by car via a scenic mountain drive that takes 2-3 hours depending on road conditions. The most common route follows the coastal highway north to Tripoli, then turns inland through Ehden and up the winding mountain road to Bsharri. Public transportation options include shared taxis (service) from Tripoli to Bsharri for around $10-15 USD, though having a private vehicle provides much more flexibility for exploring the region. The mountain roads can be challenging in winter due to snow, and a 4WD vehicle may be necessary during certain months.

Getting Around

The Cedars area is best explored on foot once you arrive, as the main attractions are within walking distance of the parking areas. Local taxis are available in Bsharri town for short trips, typically costing $5-10 USD for rides within the area. For hiking in the Kadisha Valley or visiting remote monasteries, sturdy walking shoes are essential as many sites require hiking on mountain trails. During winter, the roads around the ski resort are well-maintained, but tire chains may be required. Many visitors choose to hire local guides with vehicles for day trips, which provides both transportation and expert knowledge of the area.

Where to Stay

Bsharri town center
Cedars ski resort area
Ehden village
Hadath El Jebbeh
Hasroun village
Tannourine region

Food & Dining

The dining scene around the Cedars focuses on traditional Lebanese mountain cuisine, featuring hearty dishes perfect for the cool mountain climate. Local restaurants in Bsharri serve specialties like kibbeh nayyeh, grilled meats, and warming stews, often accompanied by locally produced wine and arak. Many establishments offer outdoor seating with spectacular valley views, particularly beautiful during sunset. The Cedars resort area has several mountain lodges and chalets serving both Lebanese and international cuisine, while traditional family-run restaurants in nearby villages provide authentic home-style cooking using local ingredients like wild herbs, mountain honey, and fresh dairy products from local farms.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Lebanon

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appetito trattoria

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Verona Resto

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Ryukai

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When to Visit

The best time to visit the Cedars of God depends on your preferred activities, with each season offering unique experiences. Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) provide ideal weather for hiking and exploring, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful wildflowers or autumn colors. Summer (July-August) offers pleasant cool mountain weather perfect for escaping Lebanon's coastal heat, though it can be crowded with domestic tourists. Winter (December-March) transforms the area into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible and weather can be unpredictable with potential road closures during heavy snowfall.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds of domestic tourists, especially during summer months when Lebanese families escape to the mountains
Bring warm clothing even in summer as mountain temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the evening and early morning
Combine your visit with stops in nearby Ehden and the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve for a more complete mountain experience, and don't miss trying the local specialty of 'kashk' (dried yogurt) available in village shops

Activities in Cedars of God