We’re all sad summer’s over, but I have some good news: there are still some pretty awesome things to do in Autumn in Lebanon and I’ve picked out 13 fun autumn activities you don’t want to miss out on!
Consider this your Official Guide to Autumn in Lebanon.
1. Join the Beirut Marathon
Image via mybeirutmarathon.com
Yep, it’s that time of year! If you didn’t sign up this year – well, there’s always the next. I finally signed up to run this year. I probably won’t run, but I’ll certainly do a lot of walking (while munching on some of my pre-packed snacks – and no, I won’t share; bring your own!).
2. Take a Wine Tour
Image via travelingwiththyme.com
Wine tours are ESSENTIAL for wine lovers. Plus, it would make a great first date (or second, third, fourth, fiftieth…your pick). Lebanon has so many wineries for you to choose from – you get to sample some of their wine before you buy a bottle or four.
3. Visit Taanayel Lake
Image via panoramio.com/photo/81873761
I’ve only been to Taanayel Lake once, but it’s definitely somewhere I would go again! Rent a bike or simply walk in nature. If you go early, you can have a delicious traditional Lebanese breakfast at the farm with their products.
4. Go on a Day Trip to the Cedars in Bsharre
Image via travelingwiththyme.com
If you haven’t been to Cedars, then you’re really missing out! Planning a day out to Bsharre this fall should definitely be on your to-do list! If you need a short guide, click here here for a sample day trip.
5. Go Hiking in Horsh Ehden
Image via trekkinglebanon.com
Hiking can be a lot of fun if planned properly. Horsh Ehden is a favourite even for non-hikers. Before you enter the reserve, you’re given a guide which shows you the different paths you can take, ranging from easy to moderate to difficult, so even beginners can do it!
6. BBQ at the Beach
Image via @javiero45 on Instagram
Autumn in Lebanon doesn’t exactly mean rain. I mean I was at the beach last week (end of October) and it was pretty sunny. That being said, you can still host a good BBQ; just keep your eye out for daily weather updates!
7. Rent a Bike
Image via @haigmelikian on Instagram
There are tons of places that rent out bikes in Lebanon. You can go to Laklouk for instance and enjoy the autumn breeze. If you don’t want to go too far, there’s always Beirut by Bike near the Corniche as well as Batroun by Bike for those living further North!
8. Go on a Camping Trip
Image via zent.com
The cooler, dryer weather means that there will be less bugs (and people), so autumn is one of the best times of the year to go camping – and not just in Lebanon, but all over the world! Pack up your bags, pick a destination and just drive off. If you’re new to this, you can always camp at the local campsites around the country that offer you a tent to sleep in (and sometimes breakfast!). Here is a place to get you started.
9. Go Horseback Riding
Image via facebook.com/River-Ranch-Riding-School
Horseback Riding is one of my favourite outdoor activities, but the summer heat in Lebanon just doesn’t give me (or any of us for that matter) any motive to hop on. Now that the weather has cooled down, we can gallop away and work up less of a sweat.
10. Play football
Image via englishsoccerguide.com
Well minus the crowds – you’re not Messi. Gather up your best team (and your opponents) and rent out a slightly more average field! There are plenty of playgrounds you can rent by the hour around Beirut and it’s a great way to burn off some calories on the weekend after that infamous Lebanese Sunday lunch!
11. Visit an Apple Orchard
Image via stonegateorchard.com
‘Tis the season for apples! Apple picking is good for your soul. No, really. Any garden activities can help you unwind, and what better way to de-stress than to go nonchalantly picking some apples at a local orchard. I’m sure Lebanese apple farmers will thank you for your help anyway! (Make sure to ask first.)
12. Go trick or treating
Image via cbschicago.files.wordpress.com
The world has Halloween; Lebanon has Barbara – on December 4th, dress up in your most creative costume and go door-to-door demanding your hard-earned candy. I don’t care if you’re a full-grown adult, put on your Peter Pan tights and go get some candy!
13. Start Christmas shopping
Image via theodysseyonline.com
Queue the Christmas songs, it’s November! Yes, we all know that it’s time to go spend lots of money on things we don’t need because #itsChristmas! You better just give in and start your Christmas shopping early to avoid the crowds and grumpy salesmen/women on the 23rd and 24th. Shame on you last-minute shoppers! #Santaiswatching And that concludes my Things to do in Autumn in Lebanon Guide, you’re welcome!
Disclaimer: None of the activities / links in this article are sponsored. All opinions are my own.