To explore the mountains of Lebanon is to immerse yourself in a world where natural majesty meets rich history and intoxicating gastronomy. This small Middle Eastern country, often overlooked for its snow-capped peaks and hiking trails, nevertheless abounds in natural and cultural treasures to explore.
The Lebanese Mountains: Imposing Beauty
The Lebanese mountains offer a breathtaking spectacle, oscillating between snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. The highest peak, Mount Lebanon, rises to almost 3,088 meters, offering breathtaking panoramas. In winter, the peaks are adorned with a white coat, attracting winter sports enthusiasts. Ski resorts such as Faraya-Mzaar offer a variety of slopes, providing unforgettable moments for beginners and experienced skiers alike.
Stunning hikes
The best way to discover Lebanon's natural splendor is on its hiking trails. The routes pass through forests of thousand-year-old cedars, the country's national emblem, offering both a sensory and cultural experience. The Qadisha Valley Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals spectacular rocky landscapes and impressive gorges. Hikers will discover ancient monasteries that bear witness to thousands of years of religious history.
A feast for the taste buds
Lebanese cuisine is renowned the world over for its authentic flavours and generous dishes. The mountains offer an abundance of fresh produce, from succulent fruits to aromatic herbs, used in traditional dishes such as Mezzé, an assortment of small dishes to share, or Kebbeh Nayyeh, a raw meat dish accompanied by bulgur and spices. And let's not forget Tabbouleh, a fresh salad with parsley, tomatoes and mint, a veritable explosion of flavors.
Lebanon's fascinating history
In addition to its natural beauty, Lebanon is a veritable open-air history book. The mountains are home to impressive archaeological remains, such as the ruins of Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This site is home to the world's best-preserved Roman temples, bearing witness to the region's glorious past. Medieval citadels such as Byblos also offer a journey back in time, revealing the layers of history that have shaped Lebanon.
To explore the mountains of Lebanon is to plunge into a world where awe-inspiring nature mingles with millennia of history and enchanting cuisine. Whether it's the breathtaking beauty of its peaks, the picturesque hiking trails, the richness of its heritage or the delights of its cuisine, Lebanon offers an unforgettable travel experience, inviting travellers to lose themselves in its mountains and let themselves be bewitched by their authentic charm.
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