The Valley
The Beqaa Valley is Lebanon's broad agricultural heartland, stretching 120km between the Mount Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges. It has been farmed since antiquity — the Romans recognised it as one of the Mediterranean's most fertile breadbaskets — and today it is the engine of Lebanon's celebrated wine industry.
Wine has been made in the Beqaa since the Phoenicians, but the modern industry was revived in the 19th century by Jesuit monks at Château Ksara, which remains one of Lebanon's most visited wineries. Today dozens of producers operate throughout the valley, from large established estates to small boutique operations making natural and experimental wines.
Beyond wine, the valley offers some of Lebanon's most dramatic mountain scenery, excellent local produce markets, and a pace of life notably slower than Beirut. The drive through the valley — past orchards, vineyards, and snow-capped peaks — is itself one of Lebanon's great journeys.
Most wineries require advance bookings for tastings. Château Ksara, Château Kefraya, and Domaine des Tourelles are well-established and visitor-friendly. For something more intimate, smaller producers like Domaine de Baal and Clos St Thomas offer excellent boutique experiences.
Harvest season (September to November) is the most atmospheric time to visit — the valley is alive with activity and the autumn light is extraordinary. Spring (April to May) is also beautiful, with wildflowers and cooler temperatures.