Horsh Beirut: Beirut's Green Escape
Escape the city bustle in Beirut's largest green space, a historic pine forest offering tranquility and recreation.
Horsh Beirut, also called Horsh El Snaubar (Pine Forest), is a 0.3 square kilometer urban park in the heart of Beirut. Historically, the area was a vast pine forest that dates back to the 17th century. Over time, it faced deforestation due to timber exploitation by various armies and infrastructure development. In the 1960s, the remaining forest was fenced and declared a public park. However, it remained closed to the public for nearly 25 years due to the Lebanese Civil War and concerns about vandalism. This led to public protests advocating for its reopening, which finally occurred in 2015. Today, Horsh Beirut offers a green retreat with walking paths, pine groves, and open spaces. It's a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and enjoying nature. The park also hosts community events and features a skatepark. While some facilities need upgrades, Horsh Beirut remains a cherished space for Beirutis seeking tranquility.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the park has numerous walking paths to explore.
A brief summary to Horsh Beirut
- VGC6+F49, Beirut, LB
- +9611987979
Getting There
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Walking
From the National Museum of Beirut, head south on Avenue de l'Armée/M50. Turn left onto Rue de Damas/M50, then turn right onto Rue Abdallah Yafi/M50. Continue straight, and you'll find the park entrance on your left. Walking time is approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Public Transport
From downtown Beirut, take a bus heading towards Verdun. Disembark near Charles Helou Avenue and walk towards Zahrani Street. Continue until you see Horsh Beirut on your right. The bus fare typically costs between 2,000 to 5,000 LBP.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. Simply tell the driver to take you to Horsh Beirut (VGC6+F49). Negotiate the fare beforehand, as prices can vary. Expect to pay around 10,000 to 15,000 LBP for a short trip within Beirut.
