8 Majestic Cedar Forests in Lebanon
Welcome to our list of the most majestic cedar forests in Lebanon!
Lebanon is home to a wide range of ecosystems, including the impressive cedar forests. These forests exist at high altitudes amongst Lebanon's rugged mountains and are impossible not to notice. The amazing sight of cedars standing tall amongst the mountains is an unforgettable experience. Trees in the cedar forest can reach heights of over 30 meters, and many are hundreds of years old, while others are thousands of years old - giving us just a glimpse of their extensive history. These dense and lush ecosystems help to maintain biodiversity, protect wildlife and provide shelter for numerous animal species. Additionally, the cedar forests have cultural significance, playing an important role in Lebanese mythology throughout their long history. The cedar trees stand as symbols of strength and longevity throughout the region earning them their place of the Lebanese flag.
“The King of Uruk, Gilgamesh, sets his eyes on a Lebanese cedar forest so dense light can barely penetrate its foliage. Additionally, the word cedar is mentioned in the Bible a total of 103 times.” — The 961
Without further ado, let’s roam this list of the eight most majestic cedar forests in Lebanon — plus, we’ll also cover where to stay if you plan on turning your time amongst Lebanon’s cedars into an overnight trip!
Majestic Cedar Forests in Lebanon
8) Tannourine Cedars Reserve
The Tannourine Cedars Forest Nature Reserve is a prime example of the impressive cedar forests found in Lebanon. This breathtaking area possesses eighty percent cedar trees, making it one of the largest and densest cedar forests located in the country. One notable feature of this reserve is its unique geography and topography which has effectively acted as a buffer in protecting the area from excessive tourism or human activity.
7) Jaj Cedars Forest
Nestled in the high mountain of Jaj, at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,800 feet), these cedar forests and reserves are one of the oldest natural reserves that remains of the cedar forests that once flourished in this region and which were exploited by kings of Byblos. The cedars that remain on these mountains are hundreds of years old, standing majestically amidst the rocky terrain.
6) Ain Zhalta, Bmohray Forest
Lebanon's Ain Zhalta-Bmohray forest is one of the region's last remaining tracts of Lebanon cedar trees. This ancient stand of trees, believed to be over 3,000 years old, provides refuge for a wide range of wildlife, from migrating raptors to rare amphibians. This area has been protected by the local community and a renowned conservation organization; The Association for Forests Development & Conservation (AFDC).
5) Maasser el Shouf Cedars Reserve
With more than 50 varieties of plants, there is something for everyone at this lush and verdant preserve. The cedar trees are especially stunning, as they have been growing since 1500 B.C., making them some of the oldest trees in the world. Visitors can marvel at these ancient sentinels, hike across rugged forest trails, or find a quiet corner to enjoy a picnic amidst nature’s beauty. The exhibit center located within the reserve helps educate visitors on how to preserve their environment and respect its ecological balance.
4) Ehden Nature Reserve
One of Lebanon's most well-known reserves is Horsh Ehden, a unique assemblage of conifers, deciduous and evergreen broadleaf trees known for the amazing biodiversity captured within it. Home to Lebanon cedars, the reserve serves as a vital environmental refuge for 1058 species of plants with 39 different kinds of trees, 26 species of mammals, 156 species of birds, 300 species of fungi, and 23 amphibians.
3) Barouk Cedars Reserve
Located in northern Lebanon, the Barouk Cedar Reserve is a beacon of natural beauty. It captures a special moment in time through its cedars of Lebanon, which are some of the oldest and rarest cedar trees in the world. Visitors to this magical cedar forest will be happy to enjoy nature’s gifts as they wander around ancient tree groves.
2) Haddath el Jebbeh Cedars Forest
A visit to Lebanon wouldn't be complete without a chance to explore the Hadath el Jebbeh Nature Reserve. Located in the Chouf mountains, the cedar forest that makes up the reserve is Lebanon's most impressive natural wonder. During a visit, you can take in breathtaking views from numerous hiking trails, picnic sites, and lookouts throughout the preserve.
1) Cedars of God Bcharre
Nestled in Lebanon, the Cedars of God is a spectacular forest of cedar trees that have existed since ancient times. Standing majestically at 8,000ft above sea level, this enormous cedar forest is not only stunning to behold, but also historically significant as it was once the legendary source of Lebanon’s beautiful cedars praised by the prophets. This ancient forest continues to enrapture travelers and pilgrims alike who visit its iconic monumental trees with awe and reverence. The Cedars of God have stood through time, from Egyptians and Phoenicians to Romans and Crusaders; reminding us all of Lebanon’s rich culture and incredible natural beauty. It is this particular cedar forest that is most likely referenced in the Epic of Gilgamesh as well.
Hotels and Guesthouses Near Cedar Forests in Lebanon
10) Laze Fountain Hotel
Located in the vibrant village of Tannouine, Laze Fountain Hotel is a perfect destination for relaxation and comfort. Spacious rooms offer all modern conveniences, including flat-screen TVs and sleek, stylish bathrooms equipped with luxurious bathtubs. Guests can also enjoy from high-quality dining experiences in the hotel's onsite restaurant, as well as exciting activities such as hiking, horseback riding and swimming in nearby pools. From its natural setting to its high-standard services, Laze Fountain Hotel is an ideal choice for those looking to explore the wonders of Tannouine while disconnecting from everyday life.
9) La Maison des Cedres
La Maison des Cèdres, located in Al Arz, Lebanon, is an escape from every day for travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. This historic house is surrounded by trees of cedar, which add to the beauty of the property. Inside La Maison des Cèdres, visitors will find a remarkable collection of antiques that evoke Lebanon's cultural heritage. Guests also enjoy leisurely walks on the premises among centuries-old cedar trees. Not only does La Maison des Cèdres offer luxurious amenities to its guests, but it also provides them with educational programs about this important cultural site and its local traditions. Whether you're searching for a place to relax or are looking to learn more about Lebanon's history, La Maison des Cèdres is an ideal destination.
8) Bouyouti
Bouyouti guest house in Lebanon is the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning sites of this beautiful country. With plush accommodations and great service, you are sure to enjoy your stay here both day and night. The guesthouse's modern facilities ensure a comfortable and peaceful experience so that you can forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life. After tackling Lebanon's many cultural attractions while visiting Bouyouti guesthouse, you can end the day with a Moroccan steam bath or massage.
7) Abdelli Terraces
The Abdelli Terraces, situated in stunning Lebanon, offers an unforgettable experience for tourists. Laid out along the mountainside overlooking a lush valley of grape vines and olive groves, they are easy to access while far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Many people walk among the terraces, admiring their intricate brick designs and exploring the verdant landscape below them in awe. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views, it's no wonder why these terraces have become an increasingly popular destination in Lebanon. Spending a day meandering through the peaceful Abdelli Terraces is sure to make a lasting impression on any visitor!
6) Cedars View Chalets & Apartments
Cedars View Chalets & Apartments in Lebanon offer their guests a one-of-a-kind experience. Its location on the slopes of the Lebanese Mountains gives visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Guests who stay at Cedars View can take advantage of skiing, snowboarding, cycling, hiking activities, and the all-around romantic ambience. The accommodations are outfitted with all the amenities necessary for a home away from home experience. Its dedicated staff adds an extra level of hospitality not found elsewhere. With so many reasons to stay at Cedars View Chalets & Apartments, it's no wonder so many travelers make Lebanon their vacation destination year after year.
5) Tiger House Guest House
Tiger House Guest House is quite possibly the most unique place to stay on your holiday. Situated in the cedars of Lebanon, it's surrounded by lush greenery and mountainous scenery that will take your breath away. With noise-proof rooms and all the modern amenities necessary for a comfortable stay, Tiger House is sure to make your visit truly one-of-a-kind. Guests can also indulge in activities like trekking, sightseeing and cultural shows during their stay - providing an authentic glimpse into the beauty of Lebanese culture.
4) Les Logs des Cedres
Les Logs des Cedres in Lebanon is an amazing place for eco-tourists to explore. Located on the northern slopes of Mount Lebanon, this protected area offers a diverse array of natural wonders, including old cedar trees, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. Visitors can explore the nearby hiking trails or take boat rides along one of the many rivers in the area. For those looking for a deeper exploration into nature, you can join in various forest activities led by local guides with an emphasis on eco-friendly practices.
3) Chalet de Charme
Its distinct charm combines traditional Arabian hospitality with modern details and amenities for an unforgettable experience for all its guests. The delightful look of its Mediterranean-style exteriors gives way to interiors boasting tasteful decor, lavish marble floors, wooden-beam ceilings, and oversized windows lining the walls to take in the magnificent natural surroundings outside. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the resort from spa treatments, to fitness centers and game room packages. Plus, this mountainous accommodation is perfect for stargazing in Lebanon!
2) La Maison des Cedres
La Maison des Cedres in Lebanon is a majestic villa that stands out among its peers in the area with its beauty and lavish amenities. Built nearly 200 years ago, this incredible property radiates history with its classy terracotta facade and mesmerizing gardens. It overlooks an expansive stone plaza before descending toward a private beach, enabling visitors to catch breathtaking views of the horizon while basking in the warm Mediterranean sun. Inside this monument to luxury, one gets a sense of grandeur as one indulges in features such as an indoor swimming pool and a formal salon ideal for entertaining.
1) Mzaar Ski Resort
Mzaar Ski Resort is one of the ski resorts located in Lebanon, a country known for its ski industry. Located on Mount Lebanon in Kfardebian, Mzaar ski resort offers a wide variety of ski slopes to visitors of all ages and ski levels, from beginners to experts. The ski resort has 26 ski trails with a total length of almost 18 km and ski lifts that reach an elevation of 2,500 m above sea level. Also offered are amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea and different villages over the horizon, like Bhamdoun and Faraya and it’s not too far from the enchanting coastal city of Batroun. For those who prefer winter activities off the slopes, Mzaar Ski Resort sports three restaurants, each with cozy atmospheres designed for having a great time no matter the weather outdoors.
Interesting Myths & Facts About the Cedars of Lebanon
10) Lebanon’s cedars were vital for Phoenician ships
The majestic cedars of Lebanon were an especially important part of their native Phoenician culture throughout their entire history. As skilled boat-builders, they used these trees to construct the famous ships they sailed around the Mediterranean and beyond. The wood was incredibly durable and light, providing an aerodynamic curve with its pleasing aesthetic. Additionally, due to its natural antiseptic properties, it remained decay free even in saltwater. Cedars from Lebanon can even still be found in ancient wreckage found on the seafloor.
9) Cedars were used to build the Temple of Solomon
Cedars were essential to the construction of the renowned Temple of Solomon, a temple so grand it has been described as a “great throne” and said to have taken Solomon seven years to build. The cedar wood used in its construction was imported from Lebanon, believed to have been the only source able to provide enough wood for the needed amount. King Solomon took great lengths in his search for resources required for this enormous construction project, even importing gold, bronze, ivory, and spices from foreign countries. His plans had a such a specific vision that modern-day engineers describe it as being ahead of its time.
8) The mountains of Lebanon were entirely covered in cedar trees
At one time, the mountains of Lebanon were entirely blanketed with cedar trees, a species that is much revered in mythology and Greco-Roman culture. To protect and encourage their continued growth, cedar forests were declared off-limits by both the Egyptians and Romans. The cedars’ timber was prized throughout Europe for many uses including shipbuilding, wine barrels, furniture construction, and idols. Sadly, over centuries of unchecked harvesting and conflict in the region culminating in a Lebanese civil war during the 1st century BC caused these beautiful trees to disappear nearly entirely; today only 1% of the original forest remains intact.
7) Cedars have snake-free shade
If you're ever looking for the perfect napping spot in the middle of a forest, look no further than a Cedar of Lebanon. You can be almost entirely sure that snakes won't be coming around, thanks to the sawdust found beneath their trunks; it contains natural repellents which will keep them away.
6) Cedars are extremely resilient
Cedars are one of the most impressive trees in their resilience. Not only can cedars withstand stormy weather, but they also have a remarkable resistance to disease and bugs that plague other species of trees. In addition, because of their shallow root systems and conical shape, cedars can even survive in harsh climates. Although cedars require sunlight and water to live, they are one of the few types of trees that have flourished and grown beyond commonly expected boundaries.
5) Al Shouf Cedar is the largest cedar forest in Lebanon
The biodiversity within the Al Shouf Cedar Forest is astonishing; with 280 species and subspecies of plants thriving there, it makes up seventy percent of all cedar species in Lebanon at any given time. Not only have these forests served as a natural habitat for local wildlife (some currently threatened), but they've also been harvested by humans since ancient times, providing numerous cultural and economic benefits to locals over the centuries.
4) The Cedars of God in Bcharre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
This stunning natural landscape, known as the Cedars of God in Bcharre, Lebanon, is home to some of the oldest cedar trees in the world and has been iconic to local residents and visitors alike. This majestic patch of land earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1998, making it part of a select group of international sites chosen for their universal appeal and cultural significance. The Cedars of God are not only renowned for the ancient cedar forests which have continued to thrive for centuries; its beautiful valleys, meadows, and cliffs make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to being designated a protected site, the region offers visitors nearby accommodations and plenty of activities. From skiing to hiking and exploring archaeological ruins from different ages, there is something for everyone at this truly remarkable heritage site.
3) Cedars have been around for more than 5,000 years
In ancient Egypt, cedarwood was used to build furniture and embalming materials, such as coffins. During the Burning of Troy in 1260 BC, cedars were burned for fuel in an effort to break down city walls. Archaeologists also discovered cedar artifacts from imperial Chinese tombs from as far back as 2500 BC. Later on, the Biblical King Solomon was credited with using cedar wood to construct many parts of his temple in Jerusalem's old city. The impressive resilience and value of these majestic trees have held importance since the dawn of civilization and can be seen even in the modern era.
2) Cedar is mentioned in the Bible 103 times
Throughout the Bible, cedar is seen as one of the most impressive and unmistakable symbols of strength and power. From biblical stories about King Solomon’s great temple and Noah’s ark possibly being constructed of cedarwood, to countless verses referring to cedarwood as a sign of prosperity, robustness, and divine providence – it is no wonder why this species was mentioned 103 times in Scripture. As an evergreen tree that can reach heights up to 120 feet and live for thousands of years under optimal conditions, the mighty cedar was often associated with the everlasting presence of God throughout scripture.
1) Some believe the end of cedar trees will signal the end of the world
Tales of the cedar tree are timeless, and despite its role as a thing of beauty in antiquity, they also have been imbued with a sense of foreboding. In some fictional texts, this majestic tree is viewed as a sacred “world tree” that when going extinct would start the apocalypse. Even in ancient times, when majestic wooden structures were built from cedars, warnings were passed on about the consequences of going against nature. It was said that empires with too much ambition or arrogance to cut down these trees would be met with ruin or destruction. From being a beautiful source of construction material and admiration, the cedar's legendary status has also been filled with tales of impending peril.
People Also Ask These Questions About Cedar Forests in Lebanon
What is special about the cedars of Lebanon?
The cedars of Lebanon are awe-inspiring in their own right. Standing tall, they’re a sight to behold with their intricate, sprawling branches reaching high into the sky. They’re not just any trees; they represent millennia of history and were once the source of building materials for some of the most significant monuments in antiquity, including King Solomon’s Temple. While these majestic trees have faced destruction over the centuries, thanks to conservation efforts and stricter protection policies, their future is brighter than ever. The cedars also play a role in modern-day celebrations and are recognized as symbols of hope and growth throughout Lebanon.
Why is the cedar on the Lebanese flag?
The cedar tree is a symbol that has been found on the Lebanese flag for centuries. It is renowned for its striking presence and beautiful look, which truly captures the spirit of Lebanon. The reason why the cedar was chosen to be placed on the flag was that it represented ideals such as strength, endurance, loyalty, and knowledge. Being an evergreen tree, it serves as a reminder to all Lebanese citizens of the continuity of their nation in spite of outside influences. Furthermore, cedar trees were commonly used to line roads as well as courtyards in the olden days, seemingly representing an unwavering commitment to creating a strong and prosperous country despite its geographic location in a tumultuous region of the world.
How old are the cedar forests in Lebanon?
The cedar forests of Lebanon are thought to be incredibly old - some believe they could be over 5,000 years old. As the oldest trees in the world's largest cedar forest, these ancient giants have withstood some of mankind’s greatest struggles and continue to stand today; as a living symbol of faith and resilience. Though threats still face these forests - including large-scale deforestation - through conservation efforts Lebanon’s national tree still stands as an integral part of Lebanese culture.