Travel Guide to Cedars of God, Lebanon

Welcome to the majestic Cedars of God, an iconic landmark located in the mountains of northern Lebanon. This ancient forest is one of the last remnants of the extensive cedar forests that once thrived across Mount Lebanon. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you reach this natural wonder:

By Air

The closest international airport to the Cedars of God is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). Upon landing in Beirut, you will need to arrange for ground transportation to reach the Cedars of God, which is approximately 130 kilometers from the capital.

By Road

To travel by road, you have several options:

Car Rental

Renting a car is a flexible and convenient way to reach the Cedars of God. From Beirut, take the highway headed north towards Batroun, then continue on to Chekka. From there, ascend through the mountain roads, passing by Bsharri before reaching the Cedars of God.

Taxi or Private Transfer

Arranging a private taxi or transfer service from Beirut or any major city can be a more comfortable but also more expensive option. Make sure to agree on a price beforehand or ensure the taxi meter is switched on to avoid any disputes.

Public Transportation

While more challenging to navigate, public transportation is the most cost-effective method. From Beirut, take a bus or a shared taxi (service) to Tripoli, then change to a mini-bus or another shared taxi that goes to Bsharri. You may need to arrange a local taxi from Bsharri to the Cedars of God since public transport options are limited for this last stretch.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Cedars of God is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is most favorable and the roads are clear of snow. However, visiting in the winter can also be a magical experience for skiing and enjoying the snow-covered cedar trees; just make sure to check road conditions and closures due to snow.

Additional Tips

• Ensure that your vehicle is well-equipped for mountain driving and that you are comfortable with driving on winding roads.
• If you're visiting in the winter, carry chains or ensure your car has winter tires.
• It's advisable to check weather conditions prior to your travel, especially during the winter months, as the roads leading to the Cedars of God can get quite treacherous.
• Do not forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery of the Cedars of God's eternal forest.

By following this guide, you should have a smooth journey to the Cedars of God, allowing you to explore the beauty and serenity of one of Lebanon's greatest treasures.