For such a small country, Lebanon is a wonderfully diverse place to visit, offering a unique blend of ultra modern chic with the traditions of the Middle East.
Vibrant restaurants, cafes and bars contribute to some of the most fashionable cities in the region, while ancient Roman ruins and rolling vineyards offer fascinating escapes from the hustle and bustle.
History and culture
Most of the world's great civilisations have been in Lebanon at some point or another, from the Phoenicians to the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottoman Turks and Crusaders. Each have left their mark, with a wealth of ruins, temples and castles to explore.
Recent struggles
The country was torn apart by a lengthy civil war and the more recent conflict with Israel, suffering physically, financially, culturally and psychologically during this period, with many Lebanese fleeing the country to Europe, America and Australia. While graphic reminders of the war and the bombing are still visible throughout the country, especially in Beirut, the energy and enthusiasm with which Lebanon is being rebuilt is amazing.
There is an air of optimism in the people, with a real feeling of enthusiasm and infectious energy for the future.
Landscape diversity
Geographically, you would be hard pressed to find a more diverse range of environments in such a small area. The Lebanese are extremely fond of saying that it's one of the only countries in the world where it's possible to go skiing in the morning and laze on the beach in the afternoon.
The scenery is stunning, from a coastal plain replete with ancient historical sites and quaint little fishing villages to the soaring Mount Lebanon and Anti Lebanon mountain ranges, with their popular ski resorts, deep gorges and valleys.
Audley's Lebanon specialists
Lebanon is only just re-establishing itself on the tourist map, but our specialists have travelled there recently and can answer any questions or concerns you might have about visiting this wonderful, widely misunderstood country.
Popular Places to visit in Lebanon
Aanjar is an Ummayad city, one of very few remains from these early Islamic rulers who captured a vast swathe of land through as far as Spain. The remains of about 600 shops have been found here, indicating the importance of Aanjar as a trade centre.
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Originally a Phoenician settlement, Baalbek’s foundations date back to the 3rd century BC. It is Lebanon’s key historical sight.
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Beirut is now reconstructing and developing itself into a cosmopolitan city after the destruction of the civil war and is well-known for its café culture.
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Beiteddine village, south of Beirut, is home to the beautiful Beiteddine Palace. The decoration of the palace is beautiful and it has also been used to house various collections of art and artefacts.
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Byblos is a pretty coastal town harbouring many expensive boats, and with the most dominating remaining ruin being the crusader castle. The town is home to some fantastic seafood restaurants and is very different world to other Lebanese towns.
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