Beirut was once known as the Paris of the east and it is slowly being returned to its former glory. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the corniche, stop for a nargileh break in one of the cafes overlooking pigeon rocks, experience 6000 years of history at the National Museum & enjoy a meal in one of the many delicious restaurants. This friendly city is a wonderful base to explore the rest of this tiny country which is slowly re-establishing itself on the international map. Renowned for the fact that it is possible to ski in the morning and lie on the beach in the afternoon, Beirut is a very special city. The city is still rebuilding its tourism trade after the recent Middle Eastern problems, however it is through this that makes it a worthwhile city to visit, there are a small selection of hotels available and all provide great bases for exploration of the delights on offer in this enchanting city.
To the north of the city lies the picturesque and ancient fishing harbour of Byblos and to the south east the Chouf mountains, peppered with small villages, a 19th century palace complex and the Chouf cedar reserve.