If a short break somewhere calm and casual sounds tempting, read on. Lebanon explorer Peter Ghanime shows us five places to recharge our batteries.
ARSOUN VILLAGE – METN
Photo – Peter Ghanime
If you’re looking for a memorable escape, book a stay at Arsoun Village. Located just 30 minutes northeast of Beirut, the place oozes character. Ideal for families and groups, the village offers a variety of interesting lodging options: tents, eco-peak wooden tents, bungalows and tree houses.
Arsoun Main Rd., Metn, +961 71 226111, arsounvillage.com
What to do in the area
Arsoun is a captivating village, where pine and oak trees cover 90 percent of the area. There are more than 10 water sources as well as old bridges and mills. Nature lovers will enjoy the cycling tracks and hiking trails available.
BLUE JAY VALLEY – AZOUR
Photo – Rami Rizk
Blue Jay Valley is the perfect place to disconnect from everyday life. Set in the heart of nature amid pine and olive trees, the retreat has a number of lodging options, including luxury tents and bungalows, making it a great choice for couples, families and groups. The on-site restaurant, which serves food throughout the day, affords formidable views across the valley.
Azour Main Rd., Jezzine, +961 7 811112 / +961 78 880088, bluejayvalley.com
What to do in the area
Enjoy a hike in the valley and see the famous waterfall or head to Jezzine, a five-minute drive from Blue Jay. To experience traditional village life, explore the old souk, admire the architecture and grab a bite at one of the local restaurants.
MARINE’S JUNGLE – QARTABA
Located along the banks of the River Ibrahim near Qartaba, Marine’s Jungle is your quintessential eco-village. The accommodation comprises tents and wooden bungalows that can sleep up to five people. On site, guests can enjoy a number of fun daytime activities such as basketball, volleyball and table tennis as well as hiking, while karaoke and campfires set the scene in the evening.
What to do in the area
Historically, Qartaba was an important silk-producing area and, consequently, there are several abandoned silk factories on the road leading towards the town. In the center, there is a large church square surrounded by olive groves, mulberry orchards and vineyards.
Qartaba, +961 3 626169
MAYOULI – BATROUN
Located in Batroun, Mayouli is a pretty bed and breakfast where tranquility reigns. Hidden among fruit orchards, the property has been designed with the busy city dweller in mind; guests can relax in the hammocks, pick fruit from the trees or cook their own food in the barbecue area. Although the rooms are simply furnished, they are comfortable and equipped with everything you need.
Soutouh St., Batroun, +961 71 000516, mayouli.com
What to do in the area
A five-minute drive will get you to the center of Batroun, where you can wander around the old souk and sip on a lemonade, a local specialty. Don’t miss the magnificent Saint Estephan Cathedral at the old port, or the Phoenician Wall and Our Lady of the Sea Church further along the coast. There are also many boutique wineries nearby such as Ixsir (+961 71 773770), Aurora (+961 71 632620) and Batroun Mountains (+961 3 484863).
NOMAD’S NATURE & NURTURE – SHOUF
Photo – Krystel Riachi
Situated in Sirjbal, Shouf, Nomad’s Nature and Nurture is a chilled-out and low-key spot, offering guests the chance to embrace a slower pace of life. The house provides comfortable rooms with mountain views and plenty of outdoor space. Take a nap in one of the riverside hammocks, read a book on the swings or simply wander through nature.
Aljalhelya Rd., Sirjbal, +961 76 370709
What to do in the area
Kfarhim Grotto (+961 5 720500) is a natural phenomenon located within a 10-minute drive of Nomad’s. The magnificent stalagmites and stalactities are believed to have been formed around four million years ago. The pretty mountain village of Deir Al Qamar is also close by. Visit the Marie Baz Wax Museum (+961 5 511666) in the town square, admire the traditional architecture in the narrow lanes or simply while away the hours in one of the many cafés.
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