If you want a history fix, Lebanon doesn’t disappoint. The Roman temple complex of Baalbek will awe even the most ruin-weary of travellers with its sheer size, elaborate decoration and excellent preservation. This may be Lebanon’s most famous ruin, but there are plenty of other historic sites to explore. To the southeast of Beirut, the sumptuous palace of Beiteddine is an immaculately restored Ottoman gem that was once home to the powerful Shihab family that ruled much of present-day Lebanon in the 19th century.
When you’ve had your fill of history why not head inland for the best of Lebanon’s scenery. There is so much variety here that you’ll be spoilt for choice, although trekking amid Mount Lebanon’s massive vistas of craggy peaks and snail-paced mountain hamlets is surely a highlight. The Qadisha Valley in this region showcases some of the best scenery Lebanon has to offer; you can hike amid lush farmland and soaring peaks to early Christian cliff top monasteries.