The Bcharre area, in the North of Lebanon, abounds in all kinds of wonders: vertiginous landscapes and natural sites, hiking trails, houses with traditional architecture. From the famous Cedars forest to the Qadisha Valley, to the many villages and monasteries of this region, here are a few suggestions for unforgettable moments.
Entering the cedars forest is a way to pay tribute to these millennial trees, which have inspired Gibran Khalil Gibran and Alphonse de Lamartine. Lamartine’s name is engraved on one tree, and a commemorative plaque reminds us of the French poet’s arrival in 1832. Along with the mythic trees, you’ll find hidden gems, such as an isolated chapel inviting you to a moment of contemplation.
One great pleasure of the Bcharre region is to discover lovely villages, with red rooftops and beautiful traditional architecture. Among them: Hasroun, nicknamed the Rose of Mount Lebanon, about its red-tiled roof houses. It overlooks the Qannoubine Valley (the southern branch of the Qadisha Valley). Another famous village in the Bcharre district is Bekaa Kafra, the birth town of Saint Charbel and the highest village in Lebanon, rising 2200 m above sea level.
The region of Bcharre encompasses several places dedicated to culture. Among them, there is, of course, the Gibran Khalil Gibran museum, located in the Hermitage of St. Sarkis. The small size of this museum, its architecture, its vaults, and its silence, create an intimate and meditative atmosphere. The visitor is not only immersed in the secret of Gibran's art but directly in the memory of the man. Also not to be missed: the printing museum in Deir Qozhaya.
Qadisha Valley (also known as Wadi Qadisha) is one of the most beautiful areas in Lebanon. It is located within the Bcharre and Zgharta districts in Northern Lebanon, at the foot of Mount al-Makmal. It is one of the most pictured Lebanese landscapes on social media. However, Qadisha Valley is everything but a « cliché». In addition to stunning views, there is a lot more to discover as you travel along the valley: the natural, wild spots and the peaceful monasteries succeed one another, giving the traveler a rare soothing and captivating impression.
Even for non-religious people, it is impossible to walk through Qadisha Valley without being stroke by its spiritual dimension. The beauty of the natural landscapes here could be described as “divine.” It leaves on visitors an everlasting impression of witnessing something “bigger than them”. Hiking in the Qadisha Valley is more than a simple outdoor experience. That being said, hiking enthusiasts will also appreciate its great tracks, for the pure love of sports.
Add to Favorites
