Lebanon In Style
Example Itinerary
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Overview
In the last century, Beirut was known as the Paris of the Middle East and Lebanon attracted celebrities and A-listers looking to relish in Mediterranean hospitality. While in more recent history, a long civil war, an economic crisis and the Port of Beirut explosion have taken the limelight off of Lebanon as a holiday destination, but it is still a country with much to offer. The Lebanese have been busy rebuilding their country with love and their indomitable zest for life. Beirut is a lively,...
In the last century, Beirut was known as the Paris of the Middle East and Lebanon attracted celebrities and A-listers looking to relish in Mediterranean hospitality. While in more recent history, a long civil war, an economic crisis and the Port of Beirut explosion have taken the limelight off of Lebanon as a holiday destination, but it is still a country with much to offer. The Lebanese have been busy rebuilding their country with love and their indomitable zest for life. Beirut is a lively, exciting city to explore with colourful neighbourhoods and excellent hotels and restaurants.
Take a tour through history as you travel the rest of the country visiting Phoenician harbours, some of the best Roman-Greco ruins of the Middle East and Crusader Castles dotted strategically from the coast to the hinterland. Between the historic sights, take the opportunity to relax in Tyre’s old city on a promontory in the Mediterranean, wine-tasting at some of Lebanon’s best wineries and nurture your soul amongst Lebanon’s great cedar forests.
On your journey, you’ll stay in an exclusive, luxury hotel in Beirut with some of Lebanon’s finest restaurants and bars on hand, a luxury eco-village property in the Shouf with dramatic views and a discerning guesthouse in the village of Douma supporting an NGO before relaxing in the indulgent Indira Boutique Guesthouse.
Meet the Expert
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE IN BEIRUT
Arrive in Beirut and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, head out to one of Beirut’s excellent restaurants for dinner.
Day 2 BEIRUT
A full day tour with your guide will take you through some of the very different neighbourhoods. Visit the National Museum with its large archaeological collection and then head Downtown to see the Roman Baths and Ottoman Clocktower. This afternoon, take a walk through the manicured gardens of the American University or perhaps stop at the Sursock Museum with its extensive art collection. A visit to L’Artisan du Liban provides the chance to purchase exquisite Lebanese handicrafts while supporting local artisans and preserving traditional crafts.
Day 3 BEIRUT - SIDON - TYRE: SEA CASTLES AND SOUKS
Head south out of Beirut to the city of Sidon, stopping first at the Phoenician Temple of Eshmun before exploring the Crusader Sea Castle set out in the Mediterranean. Enjoy a seafront table at a local restaurant for lunch and then enter the network of alleyways of the souk and from here, visit the 17th Century Khan as well as the soap museum. In the afternoon, you’ll press on south to the city of Tyre.
Day 4 TYRE: RELAX ON THE MEDITERRANEAN
The small city of Tyre boasts two Roman sites along with the remains of a Crusader Cathedral where the Kings of Jerusalem were crowned. Take in the ruins and wander through the old city alleyways or perhaps relax by the sea and enjoy some fresh fish caught by the local fishermen. In the evening, head out on a sunset boat trip.
Day 5 TYRE - SHOUF BIOSPHERE RESERVE: FORESTS & PALACES
Drive inland to the Shouf, the largest of Lebanon’s nature reserves and a region of forested mountains and historic villages. Lebanon is famous for its Cedars of God and the forests are the oldest documented forests in history. Set out on a hike along one of the numerous trails to see these beautiful trees up close and work up an appetite for lunch at one of the nearby wineries. Visit the Beiteddine Palace, a beautiful blend of Italian and Arab architecture and a highlight of any visit to the Shouf, see the palace before strolling around the narrow streets of the village of Deir Al Qamar with its red-roofed Ottoman buildings.
Day 6 SHOUF - DOUMA: EPIC ANCIENT RUINS
The Bekaa Valley beckons today and you start with a visit to Aanjar, one of the only Umayyad-era cities remaining in the Middle East. Continue on to Baalbek, an epic site of Greco-Roman construction built over two centuries and boasting what were two of the largest temples in the Roman Empire. There are just six of the 20m high columns of the Temple of Jupiter remaining but the Temple of Bacchus is one of the best preserved in the Middle East. After exploring the site drive into the Mount Lebanon range, the road taking you through some beautiful mountain scenery to your hotel in the village of Douma. The hotel is run by a social enterprise working to preserve culinary traditions, rural heritage and the environment.
Day 7 DOUMA: EXPLORE THE WINERIES
Scattered through the hills inland in northern Lebanon you’ll find many wineries and today you’ll head off with a guide to learn about the vines, the history of the different estates and of course, try some of these delicious wines. The estates vary in size and each has its own methods and blends. Enjoy lunch at one of the wineries during the tour and take in the beautiful landscapes as you drive between wineries.
Day 8 DOUMA - KFOUR: BYBLOS RUINS & HARBOUR
A short drive brings you to the coast and the historic town of Byblos. Now firmly on the tourist trail, the history of the region can be seen in Byblos with an archaeological site which includes Phoenician columns and sarcophagi, a Roman theatre and streets, and a fine Crusader castle. In the town itself, a Crusader church sits amidst the network of small streets, home to cafes and restaurants adorned in blooming jasmine and bright flowers. The harbour is home to bright blue fishing boats and a crusader wall. Explore the history of this small town and try one of the harbourside restaurants for lunch before heading back into the hills to your next boutique guesthouse.
Day 9 KFOUR: REST & RELAXATION
The views across the foothills to the sea, the tranquil pool and the flower filled terraces may well entice you to spend the day relaxing at the guesthouse enjoying its excellent hospitality. There is the nearby Jebel Moussa Nature Reserve, however, and if you are feeling energetic, there are many paths and trails that you can explore with your guide to take in some more of Lebanon’s scenery. For those who are keen for more culture, a number of small archaeological sites can be found in the hills, including some Roman Temples.
Day 10 DEPART BEIRUT
You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Albergo, Beirut
Hidden in the lively Ashrafieh district, one of the oldest and most exciting areas of Beirut, the Albergo Hotel has an air of understated elegance. Each of the 33 suites has a unique theme drawn from Lebanon's rich cultural heritage and multicultural influences. Detail and thought have been put into the decoration of this boutique hotel and it is filled with objects reflecting the glorious art and history of the region. Surveying the city from the roof terrace or pool bar is a brilliant way to break up the day, before a dip in the pool, treatment in the spa or session in the gym. Being part of the Relais & Châteaux family, you can expect excellent service and exquisite taste.
Dar Alma, Tyre
This beachfront property is located near the iconic castle of Tyre, allowing for sightseeing and water sporting opportunities. Originally built in 1967 and given a new lease of life in 2010, it still manages to embrace the past with clever preservation of historical details. The facilities are modern, but the stoned archways of the restaurant and beautiful tiles of the guestrooms are an ode to historic Lebanese culture. The hotel is decorated in a modern blend of blue and yellow interiors, adding to its fresh and vibrant atmosphere. The 10 guest rooms and suites are spacious and look out onto the Mediterranean Sea or the town. Not to be forgotten is the sundeck, with its small private beach access and terrace stretching out into the Mediterranean Sea, ensuring ultimate relaxation and privacy during your stay.
Beit Douma, Douma
Situated in the village of Douma, Beit Douma is born from Souk El Tayeb, an organisation encouraging organic farming to promote a healthy lifestyle and improve income to small-scale producers in Lebanon. Once frequented by Lebanese families on their summer holidays, this hillside location is surrounded by orchards and groves, providing a peaceful and laidback stay. The charming guesthouse has a fresh décor using antique furniture and pastel walls throughout, paired with antique pieces and contemporary amenities. Many of the rooms feature views of the mountains and arched windows, lighting up the simply decorated en suite rooms. A traditional breakfast using ingredients from the gardens is served under the relaxing shade on the terrace.
Bkerzay, Shouf Biosphere Reserve
This stunning eco-friendly boutique property feels more like an exclusive private hideaway than a typical rural hotel. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Chouf Mountains, Bkerzay is the perfect escape for those looking for a little luxury outside of the city. Sustainability is at the heart of this project, which has created the largest solar powered lodge in Lebanon. The rooms and suites all boast a wonderful use of light and space, designed using local materials and warm, natural tones, which softly mimic their mountainous surroundings. The numerous dining areas offer sumptuous local and international dishes using the freshest of ingredients, which can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors, the latter allowing for spectacular views across the valley. Guests can enjoy numerous hikes from the property, exploring the famous Chouf mountain scenery, and what better way to follow a dose of fresh mountain air than to enjoy a rejuvenating scrub in the hammam, followed by a well-earned massage and soak in the outdoor pool. For those more creative souls, why not also spend some time in the pottery studio where you can enjoy lessons and workshops hosted by the hotel's very own master potter.
Indira Guesthouse, Kfour
Set up on the hills looking down on to the Mediterranean between Beirut and Byblos, the Indira Guesthouse is a family home which was lovingly restored and now welcomes guests. The long term project of designers and artists, Indira is a thoughtful blend of Middle Eastern and Asian art and antiques throughout the property. Suites vary in size and outlook, some have a small private terrace but all are en suite with unique decoration and character. A large terrace gives views out over towards the Mediterranean and here guests can relax perhaps with a drink from the bar. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and private dining can be arranged, the cuisine is a fine blend of Levantine and Thai. A cosy piano bar can be found in what were originally the stables with a stone vaulted roof. In the summer months an outdoor pool with views across the hills provides a place to relax and guests can make use of the spa and steam bath.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
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Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Dan
Dan is our Middle East expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Daniel by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN LEBANON
Check out our group tours in Lebanon
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Lebanon. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Lebanon