A UNESCO-listed holy gorge of monasteries, cliffs and cedar forest.
The Qadisha Valley — the ‘Holy Valley’ — is a deep, dramatic gorge in north Lebanon, about 100 km from Beirut, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For centuries it has sheltered some of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, tucked into its cliffs above a rushing river, and today it’s one of the country’s most spectacular places to hike.
"Quick facts",
For more than a thousand years the Qadisha Valley has been a refuge for monks and hermits, who carved monasteries, chapels and cells into its steep cliffs. This unbroken tradition of monastic life, set in a landscape of extraordinary natural beauty, earned the valley — together with the nearby Cedars of God — a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Ancient monasteries such as Qannoubine and Mar Lichaa built into the rock.
Paths wind along the valley floor past streams, waterfalls and terraces.
Towering cliffs and lush greenery in every direction.
The Qadisha Valley is about 100 km north of Beirut — roughly a 2-hour drive. It’s best explored on a guided tour, combined with Bcharré and the Cedars of God, or on a dedicated private hiking day.
A deep, UNESCO-listed ‘Holy Valley’ in north Lebanon, famous for its ancient cliff-side monasteries and dramatic hiking scenery.
About 100 km — roughly a 2-hour drive north.
Yes — it’s one of Lebanon’s best hiking areas, with trails past monasteries, streams and cliffs, which we offer as a private guided hike.
