How to Plan Your Guided Qadisha Valley, Museum, and Cedars Tour from Beirut

If you’re visiting Beirut and looking to explore the scenic beauty of Lebanon, then you must try the guided Qadisha Valley, museum, and cedars tour. This tour will lead you to the Qadisha Valley, the Gibran Museum, and the Cedars of God forest. Here’s how you can plan your tour:

Experience

This tour offers a unique experience of exploring the beauty, history, and culture of Lebanon. Starting from Beirut, you will be taken through the Qadisha Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, you will get a glimpse of Maronite religion at the Monastery of Qozhaya, followed by an opportunity to discover Khalil Gibran’s art collection at the Gibran Museum located in Bcharre Village. Finally, you will visit the Cedars of God forest, which is home to some of the last extensive forests of the cedars of Lebanon.

Highlights

This guided tour has numerous highlights that make it an excellent way to explore Lebanon. Here are the top highlights of the Qadisha Valley, Museum, and Cedars Tour:

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Qadisha Valley
• Visit the historic Monastery of Qozhaya to learn about Maronite religion
• Discover Khalil Gibran’s art collection at the Gibran Museum
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Cedars of God forest

Full Description

The Qadisha Valley, Museum, and Cedars Tour is a full-day guided tour that covers the following three destinations:

Monastery of Qozhaya

The Monastery of Qozhaya is located in the Qadisha Valley and is considered to be one of the oldest monasteries in the valley. The monastery has several chapels attached to it and was the seat of the Maronite Patriarchate for a period of time, probably in the 12th century. Visiting this historic site will give you an excellent opportunity to understand the Maronite religion and its significance to the region.

Gibran Museum

The Gibran Museum, located in Bcharre Village, is dedicated to the life and works of Khalil Gibran, one of the most prominent artists and writers of Lebanon. The museum contains over a thousand paintings, drawings, and manuscripts, in addition to some of Gibran’s personal furniture, belongings, and a private library from his previous studio in New York City. Walking through the museum will give you an excellent insight into the life and works of this amazing artist.

Cedars Forest

The Cedars of God is one of the last extensive forests of the cedars of Lebanon that once thrived across Mount Lebanon. The timber of these cedars has been subsequently exploited across millennia, from the Phoenicians, the Assyrians, and Babylonians to the Ottoman Empire. Today, it’s a protected forest and is a symbol of Lebanese heritage. The forest is stunning, and you’ll enjoy a tranquil walk through the wooded paths.

Lunch Stop

During the tour, there will be a lunch break at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy some of the best Lebanese delicacies.

The Qadisha Valley, Museum, and Cedars Tour is inclusive of transportation, admission fees, and the guidance of an experienced tour guide. You will not have to worry about anything and can enjoy your day to the fullest.

Booking the Tour

To book the Qadisha Valley, Museum, and Cedars Tour, simply click on this link: book the tour here and follow the booking instructions.

Conclusion

The Qadisha Valley, Museum, and Cedars Tour is an excellent way to explore Lebanon’s scenic beauty, history, and culture. This guided tour offers you the opportunity to visit some of the most significant sites in Lebanon and learn about the country’s rich heritage. So, if you’re planning a trip to Beirut, make sure you book this tour and enjoy a day of exploration and adventure.

An Insider’s Guide to Beirut: Discover Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, Culture, History, and Off-The-Beaten-Path Sights

As the capital city of Lebanon and a cultural hub of the Middle East, Beirut is a fascinating destination that has always been a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and traditions. Known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning Mediterranean coastline, bustling markets, and ancient landmarks, Beirut offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you beyond the popular tourist spots and show you some hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, historical stories, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit to Beirut truly exceptional.

Local Attractions

While Beirut has its share of popular tourist spots such as the National Museum of Beirut, the Pigeon Rocks, and the Beirut Souks, the city also has some hidden gems that only locals know about. The Sursock Museum, for instance, is a stunning historic mansion turned art gallery showcasing contemporary and modern art pieces. The Mar Mikhael neighborhood, on the other hand, is a hip and artistic area with graffiti-covered walls, trendy bars, and restaurants. The Phoenician Wall, a long-forgotten ancient marvel, is located close to the sea and is a must-visit site to appreciate the history of the city’s Phoenician roots.

Dining Spots

Beirut is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine that is a blend of Levantine, Mediterranean, and European flavors. For traditional Lebanese fare, head to Tawlet restaurant in Mar Mikhael, which serves authentic dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Em Sherif is another must-visit spot that offers a unique culinary experience in a luxurious ambiance, with a set-menu selection of Lebanese mezze. Another delicious option is Du Liban, a restaurant that’s known for infusing traditional Middle Eastern cuisine with global flavors. At these spots, you’ll get to taste hummus, tabbouleh, and kebabs like a true Beiruti.

Cultural Experiences

Beirut is a city that is alive with creativity, events, and festivities, which are deeply rooted in its culture and traditions. The National Museum of Beirut, the Archaeological Museum of the American University of Beirut, and the Mouawad Museum are all fascinating places to learn more about the city’s past, art, and culture. Beirut is also host to the annual Beirut Art Fair, a four-day event with exhibitions, performances, and other activities that celebrate the city’s modern art scene. If you’re interested in music, visit Metro Al Madina, an underground performance theater that frequently hosts live music, comedy shows, and other cultural events.

Local History

Beirut’s location has made it a center of trade, culture, and conflict for centuries. From the ancient Phoenician Empire to the Ottoman and French periods to the Lebanese Civil War in the 1980s, the city has seen many shifts in its political and social landscape. One of the historical landmarks that still stands today is the Martyrs’ Square, located in the heart of Beirut’s downtown, which was once home to an old monument to Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II and is now a symbol of Lebanese independence. Another historical spot is the Saint George Maronite Cathedral, which was originally built in the fifth century and renovated several times throughout the centuries and stands strong to this day.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience the local life and culture of Beirut, we recommend taking a stroll through the mixed neighborhoods of Bourj Hammoud and Gemmayzeh, where you’ll find small shops, cafes, and bars. Go for a swim at the St. Georges Beach Club, a private beach located on the seaside rocks, or hike up the hills to the Pigeon Rocks for a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. And for a totally unique experience, visit the Jeita Grotto, a limestone cave that was nominated as one of the new seven wonders of the world.

In conclusion, Beirut is a city that offers a rich diversity of cultural experiences, stunning scenery, amazing food, historical landmarks, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path activities. We hope this insider’s guide has given you a glimpse into the myriad of experiences you can have while visiting Beirut. Explore, discover, and make memories that will last a lifetime.