Things to do in Cedars Forest
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cedars Forest has to offer
Historic Monuments
The Cedars region sits among Lebanon’s timeless architecture, from royal palaces to ancient village centers set in the mountains.
Beiteddine Palace
A 19th-century palace in the Chouf mountains, renowned for its grand pavilions and sweeping views.
Deir el-Qamar Old Town
A picturesque hillside village of stone houses and winding lanes that encapsulates traditional Lebanese mountain life.
Moussa Castle
A whimsical medieval-style castle near Baskinta with a collection of artifacts and dioramas.
Museums
Cultural heritage comes alive in intimate mountain museums that celebrate poetry, art, and local history.
Khalil Gibran Museum (Bsharri)
Dedicated to the famed poet and artist, housed in his birthplace with personal artifacts.
Moussa Castle Museum (Baskinta)
A castle museum displaying a diverse collection of toys, dioramas, and period pieces.
Beiteddine Palace Museum
Museum within the Beiteddine complex showcasing period furnishings and regional craftsmanship.
Religious Monuments
Lebanon’s cedar country is threaded with ancient monasteries and sacred sites carved into the mountainside.
Qozhaya Monastery (Mar Antonios of Qozhaya)
One of Lebanon’s oldest monasteries, perched in the Kadisha Valley and tied to the region’s spiritual heritage.
Monastery of Saint Charbel (Annaya)
Pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Charbel with chapels and tranquil surrounding views.
Qannoubine Monastery
A historic monastery complex in the Kadisha Valley, part of the valley’s sacred monastic network.
National & Theme Parks
Lebanon’s mountains cradle dramatic parks and natural wonders perfect for serene day trips.
Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve
Lebanon’s largest cedar reserve, famed for its towering trees and gentle hiking trails.
Tannourine Cedars Nature Reserve
A beloved cedar forest with scenic canyons and well-marked paths for all levels.
Jeita Grotto
Spectacular limestone caves connected by rivers, a highlight of northern Lebanon.
Neighborhoods
Small mountain towns offer authentic atmosphere, crafts, and local hospitality.
Bsharri
A mountaintop town at the edge of the cedars, with welcoming cafes and superb views.
Deir el-Qamar
Historic village with traditional stone houses, a charming old souk, and scenic terraces.
Ehden
A historic highland town known for its fort, churches, and panoramic valley vistas.
Free Things to Do
The mountains offer plenty of cost-free ways to enjoy the scenery and fresh air.
Hike the Cedars Forest trails
Follow cedar-lined paths and enjoy the air with sweeping mountain views.
Kadisha Valley scenic drive
A leisurely drive through one of Lebanon’s most dramatic valleys.
Picnic among cedar groves
Spread a blanket and soak in the quiet of the forest.
Stargaze from a high overlook
Clear mountain skies provide impressive stargazing opportunities.
Gastronomy
Mountain Lebanese cuisine shines with hearty, comforting dishes and sweet pastries.
Manakish with za'atar
Classic Lebanese flatbread topped with thyme and sesame—great with coffee after a hike.
Kibbeh bil sanieh
Baked or fried kibbeh layered with spiced meat and nuts, a regional staple.
Baklava
Flaky pastry with nuts and honey, a perfect sweet finish after a mountain meal.
Nightlife
The Cedars region is best known for quiet evenings; expect cozy cafes and mellow vibes.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding nightlife recommendations for Cedars Forest. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Entertainment
Seasonal cultural events and festivals bring the mountains to life.
Beiteddine Festival
A renowned summer festival at Beiteddine Palace featuring music and performances.
Deir el-Qamar folklore evenings
Seasonal evenings of traditional music and dances in the historic village.
Cultural performances in Bsharri
Local concerts and events that celebrate mountain culture.
Sports
Active pursuits in the mountains range from winter sports to hiking and cycling.
Skiing at Cedars Ski Resort
Winter slopes and snow activities high in the cedar country.
Hiking Kadisha Valley trails
Rugged, scenic trails that pass monasteries and remote villages.
Mountain biking on cedar trails
Leafy descents and alpine terrain for enthusiasts.
Off the Track
For the curious traveler, there are hidden paths and intimate encounters with local life.
Kadisha Valley lesser-known monastery treks
Private-style hikes to secluded monastic sites.
Cedar grove photography walk
Capture the majesty of old trees and mountain light.
Meet local shepherds in the cedar belt
Learn about cedar timber culture and mountain livelihoods.