Things To Do
in Kfar Kiddé
Kfar Kiddé is a small mountain village in northern Lebanon, nestled among cedar-dotted hills and terraced olive groves. Its stone houses, winding lanes, and warm, family-run eateries reflect traditional rural life with a welcoming pace. The area sits near historic monastic routes in the Kadisha Valley, offering a blend of nature, culture, and scenic viewpoints.
Visitors come for fresh air, simple Lebanese hospitality, and stunning basins and ridgelines that unfold with every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure by visiting the magnificent ruins of Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive Roman temples. Stroll through the archaeological site, marveling at the grandeur of the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Bacchus. Capture stunning photographs as the morning sun illuminates these ancient structures.
After a delightful lunch at a local Lebanese restaurant, head to the nearby town of Anjar to explore its Umayyad ruins. Walk along the ancient streets, surrounded by the remnants of palaces, baths, and an impressive mosque. Immerse yourself in the history and architecture of this fascinating site.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely dinner at a traditional Lebanese tavern in Kfar Kiddé. Indulge in an array of authentic dishes, including fresh mezze and grilled meats, while listening to local music. Enjoy the warm ambiance and the hospitality of the locals as you unwind after a day of exploration.
Start your day early with a refreshing hike in the picturesque Qadisha Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and deep gorges. The cool morning air is perfect for trekking along well-marked trails, surrounded by lush greenery and historical monasteries nestled into the cliffs. Take time to appreciate the serene beauty of the valley as you make your way through this UNESCO-listed wonder.
Post-hike, make your way to the charming village of Bcharre for a leisurely lunch featuring local specialties. Afterward, visit the Gibran Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous poet and artist Khalil Gibran. As you stroll through the exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Gibran's life and his connection to the region.
As evening falls, return to Kfar Kiddé and gather around a bonfire under the stars. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and experiences while enjoying freshly roasted chestnuts. This intimate setting provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🧀Groceries (daily essentials) | $3-8 |
| 🍽️Three-course restaurant meal | $18-40 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and peaceful rural ambiance
- Rich cultural heritage and proximity to Kadisha Valley monasteries
- Warm, hospitable locals and fresh, homegrown food
- Good base for cedar forests and hiking in spring and autumn
- Limited nightlife and some services outside main towns
- Rural areas may have intermittent mobile service and cash-only preferences
- Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in bad weather
- "مرحبا" - Hello / Welcome
- "كيف حالك؟" - How are you?
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "وين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أنا من لبنان" - I am from Lebanon
- "اسمي ..." - My name is ...
Places to Visit in Kfar Kiddé
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping view of the deep valley with rugged gullies, evergreen ridges, and distant villages—best at early morning or late afternoon light.
Ancient cedar trees in a protected forest; dramatic trunks, mossy bases, and misty mornings create timeless compositions.
Narrow, winding lanes with traditional stone houses, doorways, and stairways that reveal rustic village life.
Approach routes and surrounding olive groves offer a sense of place and historical architecture within the Kadisha Valley.
Food in Kfar Kiddé
Kfar Kiddé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoky roasted eggplant dip finished with tahini, lemon, and olive oil, typically served with warm flatbread.
Must-Try!
Ground bulgur and minced meat (often lamb) mixed with onions and spices, baked or fried as a staple mezze/entree.
Warm flatbread topped with za'atar and olive oil; a simple, quintessential mountain snack.
Lentils, rice, and caramelized onions; a comforting, vegetarian staple common in mountain homes.
Creamy strained yogurt spread, finished with olive oil and fresh herbs, eaten with bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering fresh produce, olives, cheeses, herbs, and seasonal treats from local farmers.
Nearby town markets where you can sample street foods like falafel, grilled corn, and warm manakish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello with 'Salam' or 'Marhaba' is common; handshakes are typical among men, and women may be greeted with a handshake or a nod depending on familiarity. Small talk is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered; ask before taking photos of people, especially in private settings.
Hospitality is valued—accepting tea or coffee when offered is polite; gifts are appreciated if you stay with a host.
Safety
Tipping in Kfar Kiddé
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Round up small amounts for casual service; in cafes, a few dollars or equivalent is common.
Cash in Lebanese pounds (LBP) or US dollars is widely used in rural areas; many larger eateries accept cards or mobile wallets, but always have cash as a backup. ATMs are available in larger nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooler evenings in the mountains; carry water, wear sun protection, and take advantage of shaded terraces and early-morning hikes.
Crisp air and turning foliage; ideal for hiking along cedar forests and valley viewpoints; still mild daytime temperatures.
Cool to cold with a chance of rain or snow on higher slopes; some rural roads may be slick; pack warm clothing and waterproof footwear.
Blooming landscapes, greener valleys, and pleasant hiking weather; carry a light rain layer and enjoy farmers markets reopening.
Kfar Kiddé at Night
Hiking in Kfar Kiddé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A route linking valley views with historic monasteries; moderate difficulty with cultural reward.
A forested loop in the Tannourine area featuring cedar groves and mountain scenery; suitable for a half-day hike.
Seasonal paths through olive groves and farm terraces, offering rustic landscape photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kfar Kiddé by plane.
Lebanon's main international gateway; roughly a few hours by car depending on terrain and traffic to Kfar Kiddé. Car rental and taxi services are common from the airport.
Located in Syria; travel restrictions and border conditions vary. Check current status and entry requirements before planning a cross-border trip.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence in northern Lebanon and Kadisha Valley areas, contributing to cultural and religious sites nearby.
Coexist with Christian communities across northern Lebanon; diverse religious and cultural practices.
Historical communities in the north contribute to the region's cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across Lebanon, with local clubs and informal matches in villages and towns.
Winter skiing and snowboarding at Cedars Resort nearby; a seasonal draw for locals and visitors.
Popular in schools and urban centers; casual games may occur in community spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kfar Kiddé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Lebanese dishes adapt well to vegetarian diets. Look for mujaddara, lentil stews, hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and abundant fresh vegetables. When ordering, ask for ‘khodar’ (vegetables) or ‘khodra’ for vegetarian options, and specify no meat if needed.