Undiscovered Lebanon
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
This wonderfully evocative journey takes you deep into the cultural heart of Lebanon, affording an opportunity to discover artisanal traditions and tastes that have evolved and blossomed over countless centuries, whilst staying in charming guesthouses and meeting local Lebanese people. Beginning in Beirut, Lebanon’s engaging capital, where a cooking class and traditional musical performance await, whilst the stunning archaeological remains at Byblos and Baalbek provide access to some of ...
This wonderfully evocative journey takes you deep into the cultural heart of Lebanon, affording an opportunity to discover artisanal traditions and tastes that have evolved and blossomed over countless centuries, whilst staying in charming guesthouses and meeting local Lebanese people. Beginning in Beirut, Lebanon’s engaging capital, where a cooking class and traditional musical performance await, whilst the stunning archaeological remains at Byblos and Baalbek provide access to some of the most important ancient sites anywhere in the region. You’ll journey through some of the most picturesque landscapes anywhere in the Levant, have an opportunity to spend quality time with local families and local fishermen and enjoy tea and backgammon amongst the backstreets of Beirut. A country of captivating contrasts, Lebanon has lain at the crossroads of religious, historical and social change for over 7,000 years. Blessed with a national cuisine that is the envy of many and liberally scattered with a rich wealth of UNESCO treasures and cultural icons, today it is emerging once more as one of the most engaging and dynamic country’s in the Middle East.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: BEIRUT
DAY 1: BEIRUT
Your journey begins in the Lebanese capital where, on arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred on to your hotel.
DAY 2: BEIRUT
DAY 2: BEIRUT
Reputed to be one of the oldest cities in the world, Beirut has risen once more to become one of the most dynamic cities in the Levant. Today provides a rare opportunity to discover some of the hidden delights of its cultural heritage, with visits to a calligraphy artist and a traditional oud workshop, tea and backgammon with the locals and a stop at the Beirut Arts Centre, before enjoying dinner this evening accompanied by a live oud performance.
DAY 3: BEIRUT - JEITTA GROTTO - HARISSA - CHATEAU MUSAR - BYBLOS
DAY 3: BEIRUT - JEITTA GROTTO - HARISSA - CHATEAU MUSAR - BYBLOS
The day begins with a drive through the rich historical landscapes along the “Dog River”, before continuing on to the vast limestone cave complex at Jeita, a place that has long played an important social, economic and cultural role in the country. After taking the cable car up to the pilgrimage site of Our Lady of Lebanon at Harissa, you'll then continue on to Byblos by way of the village of Ghizir, where you stop to enjoy a tour of the renowned wine cellars of Chateau Musar.
DAY 4: BYBLOS
DAY 4: BYBLOS
The spectacular UNESCO ruins of Byblos can boast a lineage that dates back some 7,000 years. Mentioned in biblical text and appearing in both Egyptian hieroglyphic and Punic inscriptions, the city can boast ancient souqs, Phoenician ruins and the dramatic landscapes of the Qadisha Valley. After exploring something of the town today you will then get together with the locals to discover how to prepare and make a range of authentic Lebanese dishes, finishing your day enjoying the fruits of your labours with your hosts.
DAY 4: BYBLOS - QADISHA - CEDARS - BAALBEK
DAY 4: BYBLOS - QADISHA - CEDARS - BAALBEK
Lebanon's coastal highway is home to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the country and includes amongst its natural bounty the famed Cedars of Lebanon, Lebanon's national symbol, some of which reputedly date back over 2,000 years. A visit to Bcharri, the main settlement of the Qadisha Valley, includes a visit to the museum of Khalil Gibran, before your journey takes you on towards Baalbek, through a landscape liberally scattered with ancient cave temples, rock-cut monasteries and impressive Roman ruins. Tonight, will be spent in the historic and well-preserved Palmyra Hotel, an experience in itself.
DAY 6: BAALBEK - BEITEDDINE - TYRE
DAY 6: BAALBEK - BEITEDDINE - TYRE
The spectacular Roman remains of Baalbek can justifiably lay claim to being one of Lebanon's greatest archaeological monuments. Here lie the remains of the magnificent Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter, whose Corinthian columns are amongst the largest of their kind left from ancient antiquity. From here you continue on to the 19th century splendours of the Beiteddine Palace, the finest surviving example of Lebanese-Ottoman architecture in the country. Following the visit, you then drive on to Tyre, where you overnight.
DAY 7: TYRE
DAY 7: TYRE
Birthplace of the legendary Queen Dido, Tyre was once considered one of the most important trading posts in the Levant. Famed for its Tyrian purple dye, its ancient Phoenician ruins include the UNESCO site of its magnificent Roman hippodrome. Basking in Mediterranean colour and charm, it provides the perfect setting from which to enjoy a boat trip out to the nearby island of Zireh, where a BBQ of freshly caught fish and a chat with the local fishermen provides the perfect end to the day.
DAY 8: TYRE - SAIDA - BEIRUT
DAY 8: TYRE - SAIDA - BEIRUT
Also known as Sidon, the port town of Saida provides the final stop as you head back towards Beirut today. A once flourishing Phoenician city, today its winding backstreets and colourful markets provide an ideal spot to break the journey and enjoy a visit to a traditional boat-building workshop. After learning more about a trade that can trace its influences back centuries, you'll then enjoy some lunch in the heart of the old souk, before completing the journey back to Beirut.
DAY 9: DEPART BEIRUT
DAY 9: DEPART BEIRUT
Transfer to the airport today for the return flight home.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
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.
Palmyra Hotel, Baalbek
Palmyra Hotel is sure to be a highlight during your stay in Baalbek. Having been open for over 140 years, the hotel has hosted many famous guests such as Ella Fitzgerald, Picasso, Einstein and Charles de Gaulle, to name a few. The characteristic hotel oozes old-style charm, with fraying rugs, period furnishings and images of some of the famous guests who have stayed there over the years adorning the walls, more than making up for the lack of luxuries, such as air-conditioning. The 22 rooms are simply decorated in a 50’s interior design, adding to the living museum experience, yet are comfortable. Enjoy a wonderful meal in the restaurant or on the balcony overlooking the ruins of Baalbek.
Zanzoun, Beirut
A gorgeous bed and breakfast, Zanzoun is set within a traditional Lebanese home, tucked away in Mar Mikhael. The exclusive heritage property has only three queen-size rooms, all boasting antiques and artwork from the host Zeina’s travels in the Levant. The private courtyard provides a quiet escape from the city and is the perfect spot for a home-made breakfast. Bathe in the warm colours of the interiors as you relax in the library and living area following a day of activities, such as cooking classes, calligraphy or cycling. Close by to the hotel are a selection of restaurants, bars and art galleries.
Beit Faris wa Lucia, Byblos
Hidden within the old souks of Byblos, Beit Faris wa Lucia has all the old-world charm of the city it resides in. Built on the foundations of a Crusader tower, the beautiful stone building was the home of host Daad for over 40 years. Now it has been converted into a delightful guesthouse, featuring a leafy terrace with fantastic views of the Mediterranean and cityscape, and five individually designed rooms. Enjoy breakfast from the family kitchen in the garden terrace, surrounded by trees and flowers, which is also used for yoga and other activities.
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.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
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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.
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Dan is our Middle East expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Daniel by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258