Things To Do
in Borj el Qoblé
Borj el Qoblé is a hillside town in the Beqaa Valley, Lebanon, perched above olive groves and terraced fields. Its stone houses, narrow lanes, and friendly locals give it a rustic charm away from the tourist crowds. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring Beqaa vineyards, ruins, and rural scenery.
In the evenings, the scent of herbs and grilled meat drifts through the streets, inviting visitors to slow down and mingle with residents.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the ancient ruins of the Roman amphitheater, which stands as a testament to Borj el Qoblé's rich history. As the sun rises, stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture of the old buildings. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Lebanese breakfast of labneh and fresh bread.
Spend your afternoon at the local museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits. Afterward, take a guided tour of the nearby historical churches, each with unique stories and stunning architecture. Don’t forget to pick up some local handicrafts from the artisans in the market as a souvenir.
As the sun sets, find a charming terrace restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea for a delightful dinner. Savor traditional Lebanese dishes like kibbeh and tabbouleh, paired with local wines. Finish your night with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the gentle breeze and the sound of waves.
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean at the local beach. Rent a sunbed and lounge under the sun, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful views. Grab a light breakfast at a beachside café, savoring fresh juice and pastries.
In the afternoon, engage in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding, with rental options available right at the beach. Alternatively, you might opt for a leisurely beach volleyball game with locals, fostering a sense of community. Enjoy a light lunch at a beachfront shack, sampling fresh seafood and salads.
As evening approaches, unwind with a beach bonfire and live music from local artists. Feast on a barbecue dinner with freshly caught fish and grilled vegetables while sharing stories with fellow travelers. Cap the night off with stargazing, listening to the gentle lapping of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese or dairy product | $2-5 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid range hotel per night | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet rural charm and scenic landscapes
- Friendly, welcoming local communities
- Farm to table style cuisine and markets
- Accessible day trips to wineries and ruins in Beqaa
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Public transport is sparse; plan private transport
- Roads can be winding and slower in mountainous terrain
- English may be less common outside the main towns
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Borj el Qoblé
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views across the Beqaa valley at sunrise or sunset.
Textured walls, wooden doors and stairways make for intimate street photography.
Rows of ancient trees with warm light during golden hour.
People, color and activity provide candid photography opportunities.
Food in Borj el Qoblé
Borj el Qoblé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A baked bulgur and minced meat pie often served with yogurt and pickles.
Must-Try!
A crisp salad of mixed greens, fried pita and sumac with lemon and olive oil.
Parsley bulgur salad with tomatoes, mint, lemon and olive oil.
Flatbread baked with thyme and sesame, a common breakfast or snack.
Grilled skewers served with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where farmers sell olives, cheese, bread, herbs and seasonal produce.
Stalls selling fresh goat cheese, labneh and olive oils; ideal for picnics.
Bakeries offering warm manaeesh and simit style breads and seasonal pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a polite nod; dress modestly in rural areas especially for women; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Accept offered coffee or tea; it is common to share food and engage in conversation; avoid public displays of negative opinions about family.
Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and friendly tone.
Safety
Tipping in Borj el Qoblé
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes a 5-10% tip is common; for larger groups or guided tours 10-15% is appropriate.
Cash in US dollars or Lebanese pounds is widely accepted; many places now take cards, but carry cash for small shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with plenty of sunshine. Hydrate, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon.
Cool to cold with regular rainfall; possible fog in the valley and occasional snow on higher slopes. Pack warm layers and waterproof footwear.
Mild temperatures and green landscapes; great for hikes and outdoor photography.
Harvest season bringing pleasant temperatures and farm visits; softer light for photography.
Borj el Qoblé at Night
Hiking in Borj el Qoblé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge walk with panoramic views over the Beqaa Valley and distant mountains.
Gentle loop through fruit orchards and farmland with occasional corn or wheat fields.
High vantage point offering sweeping valley and snow capped peak views in season.
Airports
How to reach Borj el Qoblé by plane.
Main international gateway to Lebanon; about 80-120 minutes by road to Borj el Qoblé depending on traffic.
Regional option in neighboring Syria; access subject to border conditions and safety considerations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents include Muslims and Christians living in a predominantly rural Beqaa setting.
Historic Armenian and other communities contribute to the region’s cultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Lebanon with local leagues and informal matches across towns.
Widely played in schools, clubs and community centers.
Common on beaches and in local clubs; casual and competitive play available.
Occasionally seen at village events and cultural festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borj el Qoblé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Beqaa you can find mezze plates, lentil soups and veggie options. Ask chefs to prepare vegetarian dishes with vegetable stock and olive oil, and avoid meat broths. Many salads and breads are vegetarian; check for dairy or eggs if needed.