Mount Lebanon is a complex range of mountains that separates most of the country from the arid hinterland. This is also the name of the administrative district (muhafaza) that encompasses much of the mountain itself.

Millennia ago Mount Lebanon was covered wit great cedar, oak and pine forest, and it is this area that ancient texts refer to when they speak of Lebanon as the “Cedar Mountain” or the “The Garden of the Gods”.

Six Cazas or districts make up Mount Lebanon, beginning with the Shouf in the south, then continuing north thorough Aley, Baabda, Metn, Kesrouane and Jbeil. Along the coast the district stretches from the Awwali river in the south to the Madfoun river in the north.

Although mountain towns near the capital have been urbanized, elsewhere a certain measure of traditional village life remains. The Lebanese custom of summering in the mountains is an enduring one; the drier, cooler climate is a pleasant escape from the humid coast. In winter there is plenty of activity on the slopes of the country’s six ski resorts, five of which lie within the Mount Lebanon district.

You’ll find plenty of variety throughout the region, with spectacular scenery, interesting old villages, good restaurants and lively resorts. Buses and shared taxies go to some larger destinations, but to really explore you’ll need your own car or private taxi. Don’t forget to take along a good map. Not all roads are signposted, so if you’re not sure, ask for directions. In winter, remember to bring along tire chains, especially in the higher elevations.

Two major reconstruction and environmental projects are in the works for Mount Lebanon, North of Beirut, Linord will develop 2.4 million square meters of land between the Beirut and Antelias Rivers. The plan includes a residential area, a leisure and commercial complex and a marina.

In the southwest suburbs of Beirut, Elyssar, a public agency, will provide low cost housing and an updated infrastructure in an area of 5,600,000 square meters.