Things To Do
in Râs el Metn
Ras el Metn sits on the western slopes of Mount Lebanon, just northeast of Beirut, and is famed for its pine forests and mountain villages. The area blends traditional Lebanese hospitality with scenic overlooks that sweep toward the capital and the coast. In Ras el Metn, rural charm meets a growing café culture, making it a popular escape from city life.
Expect winding roads, seasonal markets, and viewpoint stops that reveal a quieter side of Lebanon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked manakish and aromatic Lebanese coffee. Take a stroll through the charming streets, admiring the rustic architecture and stunning mountain views. Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and perhaps pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.
After lunch, venture to the nearby Qsar el Bcharre, known for its beautiful cedar trees and stunning landscapes. Engage in a guided hike through the picturesque paths of the mountains, where you’ll discover hidden waterfalls and panoramic views. As the sun begins to dip, relish a picnic surrounded by nature, allowing the tranquility to engulf you.
As night falls, return to Râs el Metn for dinner at a traditional Lebanese restaurant, savoring dishes like kebabs and tabbouleh. Experience a cultural event such as live music or dance, embracing the rich heritage of Lebanon. Cap off the evening with a stroll under the stars, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Visit the ancient ruins of the nearby Roman temple, marveling at its architectural grandeur and learning about its historical significance. Engage with a local guide who can share fascinating stories and insights about the region's past. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you connect with the heritage of Lebanon.
Head to the Râs el Metn heritage museum, where artifacts and exhibits showcase the local history and culture. Spend time exploring the displays, and engage in discussions with curators to deepen your understanding of the area. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café nearby, tasting local delicacies.
Participate in a traditional Lebanese cooking class, where you will learn to prepare classic dishes using fresh, local ingredients. As you cook, enjoy the company of fellow travelers and friendly chefs, sharing stories and laughter. Finish your culinary experience by feasting on the meal you’ve created together.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $0.50-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Beirut with easy access to nature
- Friendly people and rich cuisine
- Scenic mountain viewpoints and fresh air
- Lower costs than the capital in many spots
- Economic instability can affect services
- Limited English outside major towns
- Variable road conditions in winter
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Beirut
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "نعم / لا" - Yes / No
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is the price?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أين الحمّام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "من فضلك ساعدني" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Râs el Metn
Visit one of these nice places.
sweeping views of Beirut’s skyline and the Mediterranean from forested hillside vantage points.
Cobbled streets, old stone houses, and glimpses of traditional village life offer atmospheric compositions.
A natural spring and small cascades set among rocky terrain, ideal for landscape photography.
Panoramic cityscape views combining coast, harbor, and distant mountains.
Food in Râs el Metn
Râs el Metn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Levantine croquette of bulgur, minced meat, and spices, often served with yogurt or a lemony salad.
Must-Try!
A bright parsley-forward salad with tomato, bulgur, mint, lemon, and olive oil.
A hearty bread-based salad with crunchy vegetables, herbs, sumac, and a tangy dressing.
Flatbread topped with za'atar spice or local cheese, perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Tender marinated chicken skewers grilled and served with garlic sauce and flatbread.
Grilled minced meat kebabs seasoned with parsley and spices, often served with rice or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering seasonal produce, olives, fresh cheese, eggs, and homemade pastries from local farms.
Falafel, sfiha (mini meat pies), shawarma, and fresh juice stalls near town centers and roadside stops.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; in formal settings, greet with a smile and polite phrases. Women and men should follow local cues for handshakes.
Respectful dress in religious sites; smart casual is typical for restaurants and cafés.
Lebanese hospitality is warm. Accept coffee or tea when offered and respond with appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Râs el Metn
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Small tips to hotel staff or drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Credit cards are widely accepted in town centers near Beirut; rural venues may prefer cash (USD or local currency). ATMs are common in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with cooler evenings on the hills. Dress in light layers, stay hydrated, and take advantage of mountain breezes and late sunsets.
Cool to cold with occasional rain and snow at higher elevations. Pack a warm jacket and sturdy footwear; some mountain roads may be icy.
Mild temperatures and blooming flora make it ideal for hiking and outdoor markets. Expect variable weather and occasional showers.
Pleasant, dry days with crisp mornings. Great for scenic drives, photography, and outdoor meals with hillside views.
Râs el Metn at Night
Hiking in Râs el Metn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and ridge-top trail offering views of Beirut and the Mediterranean.
Circular hike through pine forests near the ski towns of Faraya and Kfardebian.
Cultural-historic route through ancient villages with stone houses.
Scenic path near a spring with overlook points toward the coast.
Airports
How to reach Râs el Metn by plane.
Beirut's main international gateway, about 20-40 miles from Ras el Metn, with taxis and car services to the hills.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Maronite and other Christian communities in hillside towns.
Sunni and Shia communities present in towns nearby; diverse local cultures.
Smaller Armenian and other minority communities contribute to the region's cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the country with local leagues and casual play in towns.
Common in schools and clubs; indoor courts are common in Ras el Metn.
Winter sport popular in nearby ski areas like Faraya-Kfardebian, reachable from Ras el Metn.
Available at equestrian centers near the mountain villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Râs el Metn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful: falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, grilled vegetables, and manakish with za'atar or cheese. When ordering, ask for no meat stock in soups and avoid dishes made with meat-based broths.