Embark on an unforgettable journey through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Holy Valley, where the majestic Cedars of Lebanon stand tall. This tour promises to captivate travelers with a visit to the historic Monastery of St. Anthony in Kozhaya and the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran. Indulge in a delectable Lebanese Mezze lunch and explore the region’s rich heritage, all while enjoying the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle and the expertise of a professional licensed guide. But what truly sets this experience apart is the availability of 4G connectivity, allowing you to stay connected throughout the adventure. Discover the beauty and wonder that await in this enchanting corner of the world.
Key Points
- This tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Holy (Qadisha) Valley, including the Monastery of St. Anthony in Kozhaya and the majestic Cedars of Lebanon.
- Visitors can discover the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran and enjoy a Lebanese Mezze lunch as part of the tour.
- The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a professional licensed guide fluent in English and French, and pickup/drop-off services from Beirut hotels.
- Bottled water and Wi-Fi are provided on the air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience.
- The tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness, with a maximum group size of 25 and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
Tour Overview
This full-day trip from Beirut explores the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Holy (Qadisha) Valley, taking visitors to discover the Monastery of St. Anthony in Kozhaya, admire the majestic Cedars of Lebanon, and explore the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran.
The tour includes a delectable Lebanese Mezze lunch, along with an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional licensed guide, and pickup and drop-off from Beirut hotels.
Travelers will have the opportunity to take a walking tour around Bsharri, visit the Monastery of St. Anthony, and stroll through one of the ancient cedar groves.
With included entrance fees, bottled water, and Wi-Fi on board, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience into Lebanon’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Included Features
The tour includes a delectable Lebanese Mezze lunch, comprising a main dish, fruits or dessert, and one soft drink.
Plus, travelers will have access to an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional licensed guide fluent in English and French, and pickup and drop-off services from their Beirut hotels.
Bottled water and Wi-Fi on board are also provided, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are covered, allowing for a seamless and immersive experience.
From the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran to the majestic Cedars of Lebanon, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Lebanon’s cultural and natural wonders, all while enjoying the convenience of included features that enhance the overall experience.
Key Destinations
Bsharri, the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran, is home to the Gibran Museum, which honors his life and literary works, as well as several religious sites that showcase the town’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage. The tour also visits the Monastery of St. Anthony in Kozhaya, a historic site that dates back to the 4th century and serves as an important pilgrimage destination. No trip to Lebanon would be complete without a visit to the majestic Cedars of Lebanon, one of the remaining ancient cedar forests that once covered the region. These towering trees have long been a symbol of the country’s natural beauty and resilience.
| Key Destination | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Bsharri | Birthplace of Kahlil Gibran, Gibran Museum, religious sites |
| Kozhaya | Monastery of St. Anthony |
| Cedars of Lebanon | One of the remaining ancient cedar forests |
Activities
On this tour, visitors will embark on a walking tour around the picturesque town of Bsharri, exploring the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran and visiting the Gibran Museum to learn about his life and literary works.
The tour includes a guided visit to the historic Monastery of St. Anthony in Kozhaya, a significant pilgrimage site dating back to the 4th century.
Lastly, travelers will have the opportunity to walk around one of the remaining ancient cedar groves, marveling at the towering Cedars of Lebanon that have long symbolized the country’s natural beauty.
The tour offers a variety of engaging activities:
- Walking tour of Bsharri to discover Gibran’s roots
- Guided visit to the Monastery of St. Anthony in Kozhaya
- Exploration of a centuries-old cedar forest
Practical Information
Confirmation of this tour is provided at the time of booking, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details before their experience.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking around Bsharri and exploring the cedar forest.
With a maximum group size of 25 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
Travelers can expect to be accompanied by a professional, licensed English and French-speaking guide throughout the day, and will enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and Wi-Fi on board.
Birthplace of Kahlil Gibran
One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to explore Bsharri, the birthplace of the renowned Lebanese poet Kahlil Gibran.
Visitors can enjoy the cultural legacy of this literary icon by visiting the Gibran Museum, which showcases his life, works, and artistic influences.
The museum features:
- A collection of Gibran’s paintings, drawings, and manuscripts, providing insight into his creative process and artistic vision.
- Interactive exhibits that explore the themes and symbolism found in his most famous works, such as ‘The Prophet.’
- Informative displays that explore Gibran’s philosophical and spiritual beliefs, which deeply informed his literary output.
Exploring Bsharri and the Gibran Museum allows visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the life and legacy of this celebrated Lebanese poet.
Monastery of St. Anthony
The tour also includes a guided visit to the historic Monastery of St. Anthony, nestled within the breathtaking Holy (Qadisha) Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Founded in the 4th century, this Maronite monastery is renowned for its architectural beauty and religious significance.
Visitors will explore its intricate Byzantine-style frescoes, ancient manuscripts, and the cave where St. Anthony is said to have lived.
The guide will provide insights into the monastery’s rich history and the Maronite Christian traditions that have been preserved within its walls for centuries.
This is a unique opportunity to take in the spiritual and cultural heritage of Lebanon’s mountain region.
Cedars of Lebanon Forest
Towering over the mountainous terrain, the ancient Cedars of Lebanon stand as a testament to the region’s storied past. These majestic trees, some dating back thousands of years, have been revered throughout history for their resilience, spiritual significance, and environmental importance.
The Cedars of Lebanon are a highlight of the tour, offering visitors a chance to explore one of the remaining ancient cedar forests. As you wander through the grove, you’ll be awestruck by the towering, twisted trunks and dense foliage that shelter a diverse ecosystem.
The cedars are:
- A symbol of Lebanon’s national identity
- Critical in regulating the region’s climate and water resources
- An important source of lumber for local communities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Tour Suitable for Solo Travelers?
Yes, this tour is suitable for solo travelers. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Beirut hotels, a professional guide, and a maximum group size of 25 travelers, providing a comfortable and engaging experience for those exploring Lebanon independently.
What Is the Dress Code for the Religious Sites?
The dress code for the religious sites during this tour is conservative. Visitors should wear pants or skirts below the knee and shirts that cover the shoulders. Hats and sunglasses may need to be removed when entering sacred spaces.
Can We Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional sites. Guests can speak with the tour operator to customize the itinerary and add visits to other nearby historical and cultural attractions within the available time frame and budget.
Is There an Option for a Private or Smaller Group Tour?
Yes, the tour provider offers a private or smaller group option for this experience. Travelers can request a private tour or a group size of up to 15 people for a more personalized and intimate experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
Photography is generally permitted throughout the tour, though visitors should be respectful and ask permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Some restrictions may apply in certain areas to preserve the sanctity of the locations.
Recap
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Holy (Qadisha) Valley, visit the Monastery of St. Anthony, and marvel at the majestic Cedars of Lebanon.
Travelers will also discover the birthplace of renowned poet Kahlil Gibran, enjoy a Lebanese Mezze lunch, and have the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off services.
It’s a perfect way to take in the rich cultural and natural heritage of Lebanon.
