Things To Do
in Bcharré
Bcharré, Lebanon sits high in the Kadisha Valley, surrounded by cedar forests and rugged mountain scenery. At elevations around 1,000 to 1,500 meters, the town offers cool summers and a gateway to the region’s dramatic canyons. It blends ancient religious sites with a rich cultural heritage tied to poets and monasteries, making it a haven for history lovers and hikers alike.
Visitors will find hospitable locals, traditional stone houses, and panoramic views that linger in memory long after departure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bcharré, nestled in the breathtaking Qadisha Valley. After settling into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in stunning mountain views. You can spend your morning strolling through the quaint streets and getting acquainted with the local culture.
In the afternoon, explore the rich history of the region by visiting the famous Qadisha Valley and its ancient monasteries. A guided tour will take you through the stunning landscapes while you learn about the area's significance. Wrap up your exploration at a local café, enjoying Lebanese coffee while chatting with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, relish a traditional Lebanese dinner at a local restaurant. The aromas of spiced meats and fresh vegetables combined with the warm ambiance will create a memorable experience. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to enjoy the starlit night sky over the mountains.
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to the Cedars of God, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This majestic forest is home to some of the oldest cedar trees in the world, and you can enjoy a serene morning hike through the breathtaking scenery. Take your time capturing the beauty of the towering trees and the surrounding landscape.
In the afternoon, return to Bcharré for a visit to the Gibran Museum, dedicated to the renowned Lebanese-American poet Kahlil Gibran. Explore the exhibitions that showcase his art and writings while learning more about his philosophical insights. After the museum, allow yourself some free time to explore local shops and art galleries.
Dinner this evening can be enjoyed at a local eatery known for its traditional mezze. Savor a variety of small dishes, from hummus to kibbeh, sharing them with friends or family. Post-dinner, consider attending a local cultural event or a performance if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese or dairy product (small amount) | $3-6 |
| 🚌Public transport or taxi to nearby sites | $1-5 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly, outside city center) | $350-800 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and cedar forests
- Rich cultural heritage and historic monasteries
- Friendly, hospitable locals and authentic mountain cuisine
- Limited nightlife and amenities in the town
- Some roads can be steep and slippery in winter
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Bcharré
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient cedar trees set against rolling mountains; a dramatic backdrop for wide landscape shots and close-ups of textured bark.
Historic terrace with panoramic views over Bcharré and the valley, ideal for sunset photography.
Deep canyon walls, monasteries tucked into cliffs, and misty mornings perfect for dramatic vertical shots.
Stone stairways and historic facades framed by evergreen slopes, great for architectural shots.
Quiet lanes and stone houses with alpine light, producing intimate village portraits.
Food in Bcharré
Bcharré Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional raw lamb dish with bulgur and spices; seek it at reputable taverns and confirm freshness.
Must-Try!
Crunchy bulgur croquettes filled with spiced meat; a central Lebanese specialty often served as part of a mezze.
Herby, tangy salad with crispy pita chips and sumac—great as a light starter.
Lentil and rice dish topped with caramelized onions; comforting and widely available.
Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, served with yogurt or lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering olives, fresh produce, herbs, cheese, honey, and bread baked on-site.
Local producers selling artisanal cheeses, labneh, and olive varieties typical of the hillside regions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common; greet elders with a polite tone and use phrases like 'Salam' or 'Marhaba'.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; keep noise respectful in monasteries and villages.
Lebanese hospitality is generous—accept tea or water when offered and consider bringing a small gift if visiting a home.
Safety
Tipping in Bcharré
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. Small tips for hotel staff and guides are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming shrubs; great for hiking but be prepared for sudden showers.
Pleasantly cool relative to coast towns; occasional heat during midday, best to hike early and late in the day.
Clear skies and cooler temperatures; ideal for long valley hikes and photography with golden light.
Snow is possible on higher elevations; expect cold temperatures and potential road closures; carry warm layers and traction if driving.
Bcharré at Night
Hiking in Bcharré
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rugged canyon hike featuring ancient monasteries and dramatic cliff faces.
Footpaths winding through one of the world’s oldest cedar forests with grand, moss-covered trunks.
Scenic routes through cedar groves and pastoral landscapes near Bcharré.
Airports
How to reach Bcharré by plane.
Main international gateway to Lebanon; roughly 140-170 km by road from Bcharré; best reached by car, taxi, or bus transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in Bcharré and the Kadisha Valley with deep historical roots in the region.
Smaller Muslim and Armenian communities contribute to local cultural diversity; Arabic is predominant, with French and English widely spoken.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across towns, with local clubs and informal games in communal fields.
Winter sport available at nearby cedar slopes; Cedars Ski Resort is a common day trip for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bcharré.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful: salads, hummus, falafel, mujadara, and grape leaves. When ordering, ask for olive-oil-based preparations and confirm no meat stock in stews.