El Fanar

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with El Fanar's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploring El Fanar Village
morning
:

Arrive in El Fanar and settle into a cozy guesthouse. Take a leisurely walk through the charming village streets, absorbing the rustic atmosphere and local architecture. Visit a nearby café to enjoy a traditional Lebanese breakfast with fresh bread and labneh.

afternoon
:

Visit local artisan workshops to see traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. Enjoy a light lunch featuring mezze with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Take a guided hike to explore the surrounding natural landscapes and panoramic views of the Lebanese mountains.

evening
:

Dine at a family-run restaurant offering authentic Lebanese cuisine. Participate in an evening storytelling session or live traditional music event to immerse yourself in local culture. End the day stargazing in the clear mountain skies.

day 2
Cultural Heritage and History
morning
:

Visit the nearby historical sites and ancient churches to learn about El Fanar's rich heritage. Explore a small local museum showcasing the village’s history and traditions. Enjoy a coffee break at a scenic overlook with views of the valley below.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class focused on traditional Lebanese dishes like kibbeh and tabbouleh. Meet local chefs and learn family recipes passed down through generations. Walk through olive groves and learn about the significance of olive oil in Lebanese culture.

evening
:

Relax in your guesthouse with a homemade dinner prepared by your hosts. Engage in a cultural exchange with locals, hearing stories about village life and customs. Take a twilight stroll to appreciate the peaceful village ambiance at dusk.

day 3
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Embark on an early morning hike through the surrounding hills to enjoy the fresh mountain air. Spot native flora and fauna while following well-marked nature trails. Pause for photos of sunrise over the Lebanese landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby river or natural water spring for a cooling picnic lunch and perhaps a swim. Explore hidden caves or rock formations with a local guide familiar with the terrain. Return to the village to rest before evening activities.

evening
:

Attend a village bonfire gathering where locals share stories and songs. Sample traditional drinks such as arak while enjoying the warm fire and company. End your day with quiet reflection under the stars.

day 4
Agritourism and Local Farming
morning
:

Spend the morning helping at a local farm planting vegetables or harvesting fruit seasonally available. Learn about sustainable agriculture practices unique to this region of Lebanon. Enjoy a fresh farm-to-table breakfast with ingredients picked that morning.

afternoon
:

Tour vineyards and learn about Lebanese winemaking traditions. Participate in tasting sessions featuring local wines and paired snacks. Discover how the climate and soil impact the flavor profiles of regional wines.

evening
:

Join a farm-hosted dinner event featuring produce from the land paired with local wines. Engage in conversations with other guests and hosts about rural Lebanese lifestyles. Take a peaceful walk back to your accommodation illuminated by lanterns.

day 5
Art and Handicrafts Exploration
morning
:

Visit local studios where artists create paintings, ceramics, and textiles reflecting El Fanar’s culture. Try your hand at pottery under the guidance of a master craftsman. Admire contemporary and traditional works displayed throughout the village.

afternoon
:

Attend a workshop on traditional Lebanese embroidery and textile arts. Meet artisans and purchase unique handmade souvenirs directly supporting the local economy. Enjoy a light lunch featuring freshly baked manakish.

evening
:

Experience a gallery opening or art exhibition event featuring local talent. Participate in discussions about the cultural significance of the artwork. Unwind afterward at a café with live acoustic music performing traditional songs.

day 6
Wellness and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a guided yoga or meditation session overlooking serene valleys. Practice mindfulness and breathing exercises in the fresh mountain air. Enjoy a healthful breakfast prepared with local organic ingredients.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a spa treatment using natural Lebanese products such as olive oil and rose water. Explore herbal gardens and learn about traditional healing plants. Relax by a nearby spring or small waterfall.

evening
:

Attend a calming sound bath or cultural healing ritual facilitated by local practitioners. Share a light vegan dinner emphasizing wellness and mindful eating. Retire early to a peaceful night's sleep surrounded by nature.

day 7
Culinary Discovery and Market Visits
morning
:

Start at a vibrant local market to explore fresh produce, spices, and traditional goods. Meet vendors and sample aromatic spices and freshly baked goods. Participate in a guided market tour learning about Lebanese food culture.

afternoon
:

Prepare a multi-course Lebanese meal with a local chef using your market finds. Learn the secrets of perfect Lebanese bread and boldly flavored stews. Share the meal with fellow travelers and hosts to connect through food.

evening
:

Take part in an informal community dinner in the village square featuring folk music. Enjoy sharing stories and laughter over plates of mezze and sweet desserts. Experience the lively social fabric of El Fanar’s nights.

day 8
Mountain Excursion and Picnicking
morning
:

Drive or hike to a nearby mountain peak for stunning views of surrounding valleys and distant coastline. Take photographs and breathe in the exhilarating air atop the heights. Spot wildlife and native plants unique to this elevation.

afternoon
:

Set up a picnic in a scenic clearing with local cheese, fruits, and freshly baked bread. Relax in nature surrounded by quiet and the occasional bird call. Explore additional nearby trails or small groves before returning.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner back in El Fanar featuring hearty mountain dishes like mujaddara and grilled meats. Watch a traditional dance performance or attend a folk music concert in the village. Reflect on your outdoor adventures while sipping mint tea.

day 9
Historical Villages and Local Museums Tour
morning
:

Travel to nearby historical villages to compare architecture and local customs with El Fanar. Visit ancient ruins and religious sites rich with stories and heritage. Enjoy a traditional breakfast in a quaint village café.

afternoon
:

Tour smaller museums featuring archeological finds and displays of local life throughout history. Take part in craft demonstrations such as ancient weaving or metalwork. Enjoy lunch featuring local specialties unique to each village.

evening
:

Return to El Fanar for a welcoming village festival or cultural event if available. Connect with others over shared experiences and traditional entertainment. Spend your last evening savoring the tranquil mountain atmosphere.

day 10
Departure and Farewell
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with your hosts, reminiscing about your experiences in El Fanar. Take a final stroll through the village to say farewell to locals and revisit favorite spots. Pack and prepare for your onward journey.

afternoon
:

Visit a souvenir shop to purchase last-minute gifts and handcrafted items. Reflect on the cultural and natural beauty you have experienced during your stay. Arrange transport as you depart to your next destination or home.

evening
:

Relax during your travel or back at your accommodation if staying overnight before departure. Review photos and notes from your trip to keep the memories fresh. Look forward to sharing your El Fanar adventure with friends and family.

Discover El Fanar

Read more in our El Fanar 2025 Travel Guide.

El Fanar Travel Guide