Ancient Phoenicia, Lebanon
Lebanon
The most compact extraordinary drive in the Middle East, Beirut's resilient cosmopolitan energy, the Jeita Grotto (the largest stalactite cave in the Middle East), the Phoenician city of Byblos (possibly the world's oldest continuously inhabited city), the cedar forests of Bcharre, and the Roman temple complex of Baalbek (the largest Roman temples ever built). Lebanon in a loop.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Beirut
The reconstructed downtown, Corniche promenade, and Gemmayzeh's bars in bullet-scarred Ottoman buildings show a resilient city.
- Jeita Grotto
A 9 km double cave system: lower cavern by boat through an underground lake, upper cavern home to the world's largest stalactite at 8.2m.
- Byblos
Inhabited since 7000 BC, the Phoenician alphabet was born here. Crusader castle, royal tombs, and a fishing harbour survive intact.
- Tripoli
Lebanon's second city holds the finest Mamluk architecture in the Levant and a sprawling souq famed for its soap and sweets.
- Bcharre
Gateway to the Cedars of God, one of the last stands of Cedrus libani. The Khalil Gibran Museum occupies a clifftop monastery above the village.
- Cedars of God
A UNESCO-protected grove of ancient cedars, some over 1,000 years old, standing at 2,000m in the Mount Lebanon range.
- Baalbek
The largest Roman temples ever built. Six columns of the Temple of Jupiter stand 22m tall beside the perfectly preserved Temple of Bacchus.
Where to Eat
- Kababji GrillLebanese
Renowned for its authentic Lebanese kebabs and mezze, offering a delightful dining experience in Beirut.
- FeniqiaMediterranean
A charming restaurant in Byblos serving a fusion of Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.
- AkraSeafood
Popular in Tripoli for its fresh seafood platters and traditional Lebanese flavors.
- Al Shams RestaurantLebanese
Famous in Baalbek for its generous portions of traditional Lebanese dishes and warm hospitality.
Things to Do
- National Museum of BeirutMuseum
Houses a vast collection of artifacts showcasing Lebanon's rich archaeological heritage.
- Byblos CastleHistoric Site
A Crusader castle offering panoramic views and insights into ancient Phoenician history.
- Tripoli CitadelHistoric Site
An imposing fortress with a blend of Mamluk and Ottoman architecture, overlooking the city.
- Baalbek Roman RuinsHistoric Site
Home to monumental Roman temples, including the Temple of Bacchus and Temple of Jupiter.
Travel advisory
Road conditions in Lebanon are variable, with poorly marked routes, limited signage, and sections damaged by years of neglect. Check current travel advisories before departure, as the political and security situation can change quickly. Mountain roads to the Cedars and Qadisha Valley are narrow and require careful driving, especially in winter.