Things To Do
in Zghartā
Zghartā is a hill town in northern Lebanon set among cedar-covered mountains and terraced olive groves. It preserves a traditional rhythm with stone houses, historic churches, and welcoming families who share hospitality with visitors. Surrounded by valleys and dramatic viewpoints, it serves as a gateway to the Qadisha Valley and Ehden Nature Reserve.
Visitors come for mountain air, scenic panoramas, and an authentic glimpse of rural Lebanese life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in the charming town of Zghartā, marveling at the beautiful architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Visit the local markets to experience the lively atmosphere and interact with friendly vendors. Enjoy a traditional Lebanese breakfast at a local café, savoring delicious labneh and fresh vegetables.
Take a guided tour of the town's historic sites, including the Saint George Church and nearby monasteries that showcase exquisite craftsmanship. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk in the neighboring countryside, soaking in the scenic views of the mountains and valleys. Treat yourself to lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you can sample authentic Lebanese mezze.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in a local café where you can sip on aromatic Lebanese coffee and watch the town come alive. Try some of the famous Lebanese pastries as you chat with locals and soak in the culture. Finish off your evening by visiting a nearby viewpoint to witness the breathtaking panoramic views of Zghartā illuminated at night.
Immerse yourself in Lebanese culture by visiting art galleries and local artisan workshops in Zghartā. Observe talented craftsmen at work and perhaps buy a handmade souvenir to remember your trip. For breakfast, indulge in a delicious manakish, a traditional Lebanese flatbread topped with za'atar or cheese.
Join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Lebanese cuisine, preparing dishes such as tabbouleh and kibbeh. Enjoy the meal you've created as a group, gaining insight into the culinary heritage of Lebanon. Later, visit the local historical museum to deepen your understanding of Zghartā’s rich history.
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Zghartā by visiting nearby restaurants that offer live music and entertainment. Share a table with locals and travelers to enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and storytelling. End the night at a rooftop terrace, savoring mint tea while looking over the twinkling lights of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Basic hotel room per night | $30-70 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly basics) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain scenery and gateway to natural valleys
- Warm hospitality and rich traditional cuisine
- Limited nightlife and services in smaller towns
- Seasonal road conditions on mountain routes
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlek" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much does it cost?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Zghartā
Visit one of these nice places.
Winding stone lanes with traditional houses and archways offer intimate street photography and golden hour light.
Rows of terraces against a backdrop of cedar forests create strong leading lines and expansive valley views.
Dramatic canyon overlooks and distant villages provide striking panoramic shots, especially at dawn or dusk.
Food in Zghartā
Zghartā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional raw lamb or beef dish mixed with bulgur, typically served with flatbread in some traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Stuffed zucchini with a savory mix of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, a comforting mountain dish.
Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs, served as a popular mezze item.
Parsley-based salad with bulgur, tomatoes, mint, lemon, and olive oil.
Flatbread topped with za'atar or cheese, a common quick bite for breakfast or a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market area where you can find olives, herbs, bread, dairy, and seasonal produce; great for sampling street foods like falafel and warm pastries.
Sambousek, fresh lends of bread with cheese, cooled beverages, and small pastries commonly sold by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Marhaba' or 'Salam.' A handshake is common; locals often stand to greet respected elders.
Dress modestly, especially in religious or rural settings; shoulders and knees should be covered in traditional areas.
Ask for permission before taking photos of individuals or families; many will be happy to be photographed if asked politely.
Safety
Tipping in Zghartā
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service isn’t included. For cafés and small venues, rounding up the bill is appreciated. Taxis often accept small tips as rounding up fare.
Cash is widely accepted in towns like Zghartā, with Lebanese pounds and sometimes dollars; many larger establishments accept cards. ATMs are common in larger towns, but carry cash for smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with dry heat; cooler evenings in the hills. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and take advantage of early morning or late afternoon hikes.
Cool to cold with possible rain and light snow at higher elevations. Pack warm layers, waterproof footwear, and be prepared for changing road conditions.
Mild temperatures and blooming terraces make it ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Crisp air and harvest season; pleasant temperatures for walks and hillside photography, with fewer crowds.
Zghartā at Night
Hiking in Zghartā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient valley with spiritual sites, rugged trails, and breathtaking cliffside scenery just a short drive from Zghartā.
Expansive highland reserve offering forested trails, viewpoints, and alpine flora.
Iconic cedar forest near Bsharri; a classic Lebanon hiking and photography destination.
Airports
How to reach Zghartā by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; about 100-150 miles (160-240 km) from Zghartā, typically reachable by road via north Lebanon and the coastline.
Closest major international airport if traveling via Syria; cross-border travel requires careful planning and current border regulations. Distance from Zghartā varies with route and border status.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically a significant community in Zghartā, contributing to local culture, churches, and family life.
Includes Sunni and Shia populations in the broader region; diverse in nearby towns and villages.
Present in northern Lebanon with cultural contributions across markets, churches, and communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Lebanon, with local clubs and informal games in towns like Zghartā.
A common indoor sport, played in community centers and schools.
The varied terrain around Zghartā is popular for outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zghartā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lebanese vegetarian options are plentiful: rely on salads (tabbouleh, fattoush), lentil dishes, hummus, falafel, grilled seasonal vegetables, and fresh bread. When ordering, ask for olive oil and lemon on the side, and confirm egg and dairy ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.