Cedars Forest, Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve Travel Guide

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Discover Lebanon's ancient Cedars Forest: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to majestic trees with millennia of history and natural beauty.

The Cedars Forest, also known as the Cedars of God, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the last remnants of the great cedar forests of Lebanon. Located in the Kadisha Valley, near Bsharri, these ancient trees have stood for centuries, bearing witness to the country's rich history and cultural significance.

A brief summary to Cedars Forest

RQG2+FR2, Khalwat, LB

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cedars Forest.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain within the forest.
Bring layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
Visit during spring or fall for pleasant weather and optimal hiking conditions.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Gibran Museum and the Kadisha Valley monasteries.

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BAROUK RESERVE

Explore Cedars Forest on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cedars Forest, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Beirut, take the road towards Chekka and then Bsharri. Follow the signs to the Cedars of God. The drive is approximately two hours, offering scenic views of the Lebanese countryside. Parking is available near the forest entrance. There may be parking fees.
Public Transport

Take a bus or shared taxi from Beirut to Bsharri. From Bsharri, hire a taxi to the Cedars Forest entrance. This option may be less frequent and convenient than driving. Bus fare from Beirut to Tripoli can range from LBP 50,000 to LBP 100,000. Taxi from Tripoli to Bsharri may cost around LBP 75,000 - 150,000.

Discover more about Cedars Forest

Nestled in the rugged mountains of northern Lebanon, the Cedars Forest, or Cedars of God (Arz ar-Rabb), is a breathtaking testament to nature's enduring beauty and Lebanon's rich history. This ancient grove, located in the Kadisha Valley (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is home to some of the oldest and most majestic cedar trees in the world, some exceeding 1,000 years in age. These trees, the Cedrus libani, are a national symbol, featured on the Lebanese flag and revered throughout the country's history.The Cedars of God have been mentioned in historical records dating back to ancient Sumerian and Egyptian times. The Phoenicians used cedar wood to build their ships, enabling them to become a dominant sea-trading nation. Egyptians used it for shipbuilding and embalming. Biblical texts refer to the cedars being used in the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. Over the centuries, the forests faced deforestation due to high demand for their valuable timber. Today, the Cedars Forest is a protected area, with ongoing conservation efforts to preserve these ancient trees for future generations.Visitors to the Cedars Forest can wander through the serene landscape, taking in the grandeur of these ancient giants. Hiking trails wind through the grove, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The forest is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a tranquil escape. Nearby attractions include the Gibran Museum in Bsharri, dedicated to the works of the renowned Lebanese poet and artist Khalil Gibran, and the monasteries of the Kadisha Valley.