Guides
7 Northern Lebanon Weekend Breaks From Beirut
We’re heading North this weekend, who’s with us?
1. Akkar
Located on the northern border of Lebanon, lies the Akkar district. Despite its reputation as a disenfranchised area, it’s one of the most underrated and gorgeous places in Lebanon. You’ll feel like the nature is untouched at some places like Oyoun El Samak and Donnieh’s neighboring green spaces. There’s a lovely guesthouse in Kobayat, Jabalna Ecolodge, which will complete your true mountain experience.
2. Tripoli
Whatever I say about this city won’t be enough! Spend your day touring the old souks, the citadel, the Turkish hamam, then grab a bite from the food kiosks or if you’re feeling like authentic Lebanese cuisine, try Baytna. For a more by the sea experience, head to Mina and stroll around the old neighborhoods, have a drink in Minot, and end the day in Beit Al Nassim guesthouse. If you’re into a lavish by the sea experience, your options could be Miramar or Palma which are sea-front beach resorts that have rooftops, restaurants, chalets, hotel rooms, spas, and other luxurious amenities.
3. Ehden
Ehden is a mountainous town of splendid weather and an exceptional ambiance. Horsh Ehden and Saydet El Hosn are a must-see locations. I went on a snowshoeing hike once in the reserve, and it was one of the most remarkable experiences – during the summer, it’s even more fresh and vibrant. You can also camp out there and even try a couple of adventurous activities with Ehden Mountain Activities. Your go-to restaurant is Al Ferdaws and for the stay we recommend Mist, a hotel with a crazy-beautiful location.
4. Douma
Delve into the village life in this town. Douma has been one of the it-places this summer, and rightfully so. Old souks, quaint guesthouses like Beit Douma, authentic restaurants like Chalhoub’s, and charming little coffee shops like Bent al Dayaa Cafe. Kfarhilda is also 10 minutes away, so you can also get to experience the natural scenery and waterfalls of this beautiful area.
5. Batroun
Heading down back to the sea, Batroun is one of the top players of the North. Nightlife (Hype), beach bars (Barracuda and Pierre & Friends), both fine and casual dining restaurants (Bistr’eau), heritage sites, Colonel brewery, wineries, and so much more. If you haven’t visited Batroun yet, you absolutely need to this weekend.
6. Cedars – Bsharre
The symbol of our country’s flag, the Cedars – Bsharre is perfect for a serene getaway against from the big city lights. Peaceful and quiet, as if it’s untouched – this town can be visited for many reasons, the Tannourine park, the Gebran museum, Kadisha valley. Drive up for 15 additional minutes and you can visit the majestic cedar reserve, have dinner at Le Pichet in Cedrus Hotel, and end the night in one of the bungalows.
7. Anfeh
Every sea lover’s dream, taht el rih is all the hype and a must-visit place. Stay at Marse, have lunch at Chez Fouad, and end the night by having a stroll in the calm seaside town.
1. Akkar
Located on the northern border of Lebanon, lies the Akkar district. Despite its reputation as a disenfranchised area, it’s one of the most underrated and gorgeous places in Lebanon. You’ll feel like the nature is untouched at some places like Oyoun El Samak and Donnieh’s neighboring green spaces. There’s a lovely guesthouse in Kobayat, Jabalna Ecolodge, which will complete your true mountain experience.
2. Tripoli
Whatever I say about this city won’t be enough! Spend your day touring the old souks, the citadel, the Turkish hamam, then grab a bite from the food kiosks or if you’re feeling like authentic Lebanese cuisine, try Baytna. For a more by the sea experience, head to Mina and stroll around the old neighborhoods, have a drink in Minot, and end the day in Beit Al Nassim guesthouse. If you’re into a lavish by the sea experience, your options could be Miramar or Palma which are sea-front beach resorts that have rooftops, restaurants, chalets, hotel rooms, spas, and other luxurious amenities.
3. Ehden
Ehden is a mountainous town of splendid weather and an exceptional ambiance. Horsh Ehden and Saydet El Hosn are a must-see locations. I went on a snowshoeing hike once in the reserve, and it was one of the most remarkable experiences – during the summer, it’s even more fresh and vibrant. You can also camp out there and even try a couple of adventurous activities with Ehden Mountain Activities. Your go-to restaurant is Al Ferdaws and for the stay we recommend Mist, a hotel with a crazy-beautiful location.
4. Douma
Delve into the village life in this town. Douma has been one of the it-places this summer, and rightfully so. Old souks, quaint guesthouses like Beit Douma, authentic restaurants like Chalhoub’s, and charming little coffee shops like Bent al Dayaa Cafe. Kfarhilda is also 10 minutes away, so you can also get to experience the natural scenery and waterfalls of this beautiful area.
5. Batroun
Heading down back to the sea, Batroun is one of the top players of the North. Nightlife (Hype), beach bars (Barracuda and Pierre & Friends), both fine and casual dining restaurants (Bistr’eau), heritage sites, Colonel brewery, wineries, and so much more. If you haven’t visited Batroun yet, you absolutely need to this weekend.
6. Cedars – Bsharre
The symbol of our country’s flag, the Cedars – Bsharre is perfect for a serene getaway against from the big city lights. Peaceful and quiet, as if it’s untouched – this town can be visited for many reasons, the Tannourine park, the Gebran museum, Kadisha valley. Drive up for 15 additional minutes and you can visit the majestic cedar reserve, have dinner at Le Pichet in Cedrus Hotel, and end the night in one of the bungalows.
7. Anfeh
Every sea lover’s dream, taht el rih is all the hype and a must-visit place. Stay at Marse, have lunch at Chez Fouad, and end the night by having a stroll in the calm seaside town.