Ski Safari Lebanon

Ski Lebanon

Want to make descents less than 25 kilometers from the Mediterranean this winter? Everything is possible during a ski safari in Lebanon. Skiing with a view of the cosmopolitan city of Beirut, a boat trip along illuminated stalactite caves and don’t forget the delicious local dishes. In 8 days we visit the highlights of this amazing country in the Middle East.

As always we are predominantly working with local partners and local guides. As a non profit tour agency we are supporting tourism in developing countries. That means that you will have a local experience and that locals have a decent income. Moreover do we help foster local initiatives to grow (winter)tourism.

Faraya Mzaar

After arrival at Beirut airport we drive directly to the largest ski area in Lebanon. With more than 100 km of groomed slopes, Mzaar is by far the largest ski area in the Middle East. Rolling slopes lead from the Refuge chairlift to the foot of the Jabal Dib. From the top of the Mzaar (2465m) you have challenging runs on and off piste. For the freeriders among us we can organize an off-piste run to the village of Qanat Bakich. From here you will go back to the Mzaar ski resort by local taxi.

In the evenings you will sit down for delicious Lebanese meals. Manouche, Hummus, Labneh, Kibbeh, Baba Ganoush, Falafel and Tabouleh. These dishes will undoubtedly pass by. Complemented with a locally squeezed orange juice or a Beirut beer.

Harissa

At the end of the third day of skiing in Mzaar we drive to the famous gondola of Harissa. At 650 meters altitude we first enjoy the majestic view over the bay of Jounieh. The sun slowly sets in the Mediterranean. At the last sparkles we visit ‘Our Lady of Lebanon’. It is one of the most important holy shrines of Mary. Then we finally take the gondola to sea level. To Jounieh

Jounieh

In the evening we can have a drink in the lively center of Jounieh. The resort town is known in Lebanon as a center of entertainment and tourism. Many beach bars, bars and shops. We spend the night in a lovely hotel. Hopefully the legs can recover a bit. The next morning we first visit the old town of Jounieh. Then we drive to the wonderful underground world of Jeita.

The Jeita Grotto is one of the most unique places in Lebanon. The largest stalactites in the world are located in this stalactite cave. We hike through the upper part and charter a boat to sail a bit over an underwater river. You imagine yourself in a completely different world and you will undoubtedly be impressed.

Byblos

We have lunch in the Roman city of Byblos (Jbeil in Arabic). This city has been inhabited for over 7000 years. This makes it one of the oldest cities in the world. As we stroll through the city you will see influences from Egyptian, Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Ottoman and French cultures. The archaeologist in us is working overtime. After a walk through the old town we set course for the Cedars of God. Lebanon’s second ski area.

Cedars of God

Lebanon's highest ski resort is located at Lebanon's main cedar forest. The lifts go up to 2869 meters but the number of descents is limited. Most skiers enthusiasts are finished after a day. You can possibly make a short hike to the Ain ej Joura. From this large, wooden cross you ski back to the ski area.

The last day in the Cedars of God we drive to the ski area again. You can also choose to do other activities today. You have the option to take a walk in the Cedar forest. These wide trees are a symbol of Lebanon, the tree even features prominently on the national flag. Next to the forest are many cafes and souvenir shops. Alternatively, you can walk to the charming village of Bcharri.

The adventurous amongst us can rent a snowmobile and take a short trip over the Ainata Pass. There is a large selection of snowmobiles. You can make a deal yourself about the length of the ride you want to take. At the end of the afternoon we drive back to the capital Beirut.

Beirut

We return to Beirut. Enthusiasts can dive into Beirut’s nightlife. In the Middle East, Beirut ‘by far’ is the best place to party. The next day you have a free day in Beirut. If you wish, you can see the highlights of the city on your own. Don’t forget to visit the Pigeon Rocks, Martyrs’ Square, the Souks, Zaitunay Bay and Gemmayzeh. No doubt, like me, you never want to leave Lebanon again. The people are incredibly hospitable and the country has so much to offer on such a small territory. It’s hard to imagine that you can experience an amazing ski trips here. But that will happen. Promised.

Ski Lebanon for you?

• Adventurers looking for something different than the Alps
• Skiers who can easily tackle a blue slope
• Lovers of other cultures and rituals

Included

• 3 nights in ** chalet Mzaar (twin/triple rooms)
• 1 night in *** hotel Jounieh (twin/double rooms)
• 2 nights in ** chalet Cedars of God (twin/triple rooms)
• 1 night in Beirut apartment (twin/triple rooms)
• Bed & Breakfast
• 3 days ski pass Mzaar
• City Tour Harissa/Jounieh
• Entrance fee Jeita Grotto
• Entrance to Byblos historical site
• English speaking guide
• 1 day ski pass Cedars of God
• ski doo dropping
• All transfers

Not included

• Flights MEA/Turkish Airlines (€150-250)
• Lunch and dinner
• Alcoholic drinks
• Tips & Souvenirs
• Ski or snowboard rental (€ 100 per week)
• Optional activities
• Travel Insurance

Don’t book any flights yet!

As soon as we have reached the minimum amount of reservations (5) we will send you an e-mail. If we don’t have enough participants we will, send you an e-mail 40 days prior to departure the latests. (*) We recommend flying MEA or Turkish Airlines as they take ski equipment free of charge (usually) * we didn’t have to cancel any trip due to a lack of reservations so far

DEPARTURE (TRANSAVIA)

FRIDAY 14:20 AMS Amsterdam Schiphol  – 19:45 BEY Beiroet

RETURN (TRANSAVIA)

FRIDAY 20:35 BEY Beirut – 00:35 (+1) AMS Amsterdam Schiphol 

* we have always reached the minimum amount of reservations over the last couple of years

Travel as a group?

If you want to travel as a group of at least 5 people, you can request a tailor-made trip. Other departure dates are always possible in consultation. Please contact us via mail@rycetravel.com or via WhatsApp +31648729047

Ski Adventure Lebanon