Short, controlled walk through one of the last ancient Lebanon cedar groves, with the option of longer forest trails.
The Cedars of God is a small, tightly protected grove of ancient Lebanon cedars above Bsharri, and a June 2026 guide describes it as a focused stop with short, controlled paths rather than a long hike, while another article describes several forest trails that most finish within a few hours. The grove sits at altitude, so it is cooler than the coast, and in winter the surrounding slopes are used for skiing. From Beirut it is about 120 km and 2.5 to 3 hours each way, so many visitors combine it with the Qadisha Valley on an overnight stay in Bsharri. Entry fees and exact opening hours were not verified for 2026, and the reserve's current status should be checked before travelling. Visitors should stay on marked paths, avoid picking cones or branches and dress in layers. The area is not named in the UK government's advised-against zones as of August 2026, but advice can change. In an emergency dial 112 or 140.
| Distance | Short grove paths of about 1-2 km (estimate); longer forest trails finish in a few hours |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 to 3 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Hired car with driver or minibus to Bsharri then taxi, about 2.5 to 3 hours from Beirut |
| Best season | May-October for walking; snow in winter |
| Address | Cedars of God, Bsharri, North Lebanon |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Bsharri District, North Lebanon
What to bring
- Layers
- Water
- Walking shoes
- Sun protection
Location
Cedars of God, Bsharri, North Lebanon
34.2447, 36.0467 View on map
Highlights
- Among the last ancient Lebanon cedar stands
- Short, flat grove paths suited to most visitors
- Cool mountain air above the coast
- Easy pairing with Qadisha Valley
Tips for visiting
- Dress in layers; the grove is cooler than Beirut.
- Stay on marked paths and do not pick cones.
- Check opening and snow conditions before travelling.
- Combine with Qadisha on an overnight in Bsharri.
- Carry USD cash for any entry fee.
When to visit
Late spring and early autumn mornings.
Accessibility
Short paths are mostly level, but surfaces are uneven in places.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a long hike?
No, the grove paths are short; longer forest trails take a few hours.
Is there an entry fee?
No verified 2026 fee was found.
When is the best time?
May to October for walking.
How far is it from Beirut?
About 120 km, 2.5 to 3 hours.