Chateau Ksara, Bekaa Valley Travel Guide

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Discover Lebanon's winemaking heritage at Chateau Ksara, the country's oldest winery, with Roman caves and award-winning wines.

Chateau Ksara, nestled in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, is the country's oldest winery, established in 1857 by Jesuit priests. Explore Roman-era caves, sample award-winning wines, and discover Lebanon's rich winemaking heritage.

A brief summary to Chateau Ksara

Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Book your wine tasting session in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through vineyards and cellars.
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
Explore the surrounding Bekaa Valley, including the ancient ruins of Baalbek and the city of Zahle.
Check the winery's opening hours, which vary depending on the season.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Zahle, taxis are readily available to Chateau Ksara. A taxi ride from the city center will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around 10,000-15,000 LBP for the trip. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like CTaxi operate in Zahle.
Public Transport

While direct public transportation to Chateau Ksara is limited, you can take a van or bus from Beirut to Zahle. From Zahle, you'll need to take a taxi to the winery. The bus fare from Beirut to Zahle is approximately 5,000-8,000 LBP. Be sure to confirm the route and schedule beforehand.

Discover more about Chateau Ksara

Chateau Ksara, located in the Bekaa Valley near Zahle, stands as a testament to Lebanon's long and distinguished winemaking history. Founded in 1857 by Jesuit priests, it is Lebanon's oldest winery and one of the most visited attractions in the Bekaa Valley. The name 'Ksara' is derived from 'Ksar,' meaning 'castle,' reflecting the area's history.The winery's story is intertwined with the discovery of Roman-era caves in 1898, which now stretch for two kilometers and serve as cellars for aging their wines. These caves, with their ancient stone walls, offer visitors a glimpse into the winery's past. The unique microclimate and soil of the Bekaa Valley, with its high altitude and abundance of limestone, contribute to the distinctive character of Ksara's wines.Visitors can explore the vineyards, tour the historic cellars, and learn about the winemaking process. Wine tasting sessions allow guests to sample a selection of Ksara's finest wines, often paired with local cheeses and delicacies. The winery also boasts a restaurant where visitors can savor Lebanese cuisine alongside Ksara's wines. Chateau Ksara produces approximately 3 million bottles annually, exporting to over 40 countries.