Country(ies): Lebanon
Tour type: Small Group
Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 18
Accommodation: 4-star hotels, guesthouse & monastery
Meals:
Transport: A/C car/minibus/coach
Highlights: Beirut, Beiteddine Palace, Tyre World Heritage Site, Sidon Souk, Baalbek temple complex, Ksara Caves wine tasting, Cedar Forest, Qadisha Valley, Baatara Gorge & Waterfall, Byblos harbour & history, Jeita Grotto, Harissa cable car
Embark on an extraordinary journey spanning 8 immersive days delving into the captivating tapestry of Lebanon, a gem nestled on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its modest size, Lebanon boasts an illustrious past steeped in history and culture, serving as the cradle of some of humanity's earliest civilizations.
Your adventure commences with a riveting exploration of the legendary Phoenician cities of Tyre and Sidon, where ancient castles, mosques, and vibrant souqs whisper tales of bygone eras. Traverse through the labyrinthine alleys, soaking in the ambiance of antiquity intertwined with modern life. Behold the mesmerizing remnants of the Beiteddine Palace, an architectural marvel evoking echoes of a regal past.
Journey onward to Byblos, a timeless enclave heralded as the oldest continually inhabited city worldwide, where every cobblestone exudes history. Dive into the mystique of Baalbek, home to one of the Middle East's most impeccably preserved temple complexes, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient craftsmanship.
For those enamored with nature's splendor, the itinerary unfolds an array of breathtaking spectacles. Explore the enigmatic depths of the Ksara Caves, marvel at the majestic Rock of Raouche standing sentinel against the crashing waves, and witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Baatara Gorge Sinkhole. Traverse through groves of Lebanon cedar trees, revered since antiquity and immortalized in sacred scriptures.
Venture into the ethereal realm of the Jeita Grotto, a subterranean marvel carved by the patient hand of time, and indulge in the sensory delights of a wine tasting experience amidst the hallowed halls of the Ksara Caves.
Throughout your sojourn, find respite in a curated selection of boutique hotels and guesthouses, offering a blend of comfort and authenticity. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of a monastery guesthouse nestled amidst the picturesque vistas of the Qadisha Valley, a sanctuary of tranquility amidst nature's embrace.
During the winter months, the itinerary gracefully adapts to nature's whims, ensuring seamless navigation through snow-clad mountain routes, ensuring an uninterrupted journey of discovery and wonder.
Embark on a voyage of discovery through the storied landscapes of Lebanon, where every corner reveals a chapter of antiquity, a testament to resilience, and an ode to the enduring spirit of humanity.
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Winter route adjustment:
During the winter months (normally from December until sometime in May), many mountain roads in Lebanon are closed due to snow. During this period the tour will be adjusted to avoid the drive from Becharre to Zahle across the Col des Cedres. All the same places will be visited and the same activities included, but the itinerary will run as follows...
Days 1-2 - As above
Day 3 - Morning Beirut City Tour, then head to the Baatara Gorge to see the sinkhole, before finishing at the Qadisha Valley. Lunch included, and overnight at the Monastery or nearby guesthouse.
Day 4 - Morning hike in the Qadisha Valley, visit Becharre and the Cedars, then return to Byblos for overnight.
Day 5 - Explore Byblos, then drive to Zahle via Beirut, with stops on the way to discover Harissa by cable car, and to explore the Jeita Grotto. Overnight in Zahle
Days 6-8 - as above
If you are looking for a tour and not finding what you are looking for, have a look at our best other related tours to check out for your travel plans. At Encounters Travel, we offer a variety of tours to suit your needs. So sit back, relax, and let us help you plan the perfect getaway.
This tour has regular small-group departures all year round starting on Saturdays. The tour is also available privately on any other dates. Please contact us for more information and prices.
The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.
Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination youre visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.
All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.
Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.
The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.
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