🎿 Faraya, Lebanon – Snowy Slopes & Mountain Escapes

Where Lebanon skis, hikes, and parties in the clouds

 

Perfect for winter sports lovers, summer adventurers, and mountain weekenders

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🧭 Why Visit Faraya?

Faraya, nestled in the Mount Lebanon range, is Lebanon’s premier mountain resort town, located just an hour from Beirut. Whether you're coming for skiing in winter, hiking in summer, or just escaping city life, Faraya offers the perfect alpine experience.

The village is part of the Kfardebian area, often referred to together as Faraya-Mzaar, home to the largest ski resort in the Middle East.

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❄️ Winter Wonderland (Dec–March)

⛷ 1. Mzaar Ski Resort (Faraya-Mzaar)

With over 80 km of ski runs, Mzaar is Lebanon’s largest and most developed ski destination. It offers slopes for all levels, modern lifts, snow parks, and ski-in/ski-out hotels.

🎿 Activities include:

• Alpine skiing

• Snowboarding

• Snowmobile tours

• Après-ski lounges & mountaintop cafés

🎉 2. Après-Ski & Nightlife

After the slopes, enjoy chic bars, fireplaces, live DJs, and mountain parties. Faraya is a hot spot for Beirutis seeking glamorous snowy weekends.

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🌄 Summer in Faraya (May–October)

🥾 1. Hiking, Climbing & ATV Tours

Faraya’s mountains turn into lush green trails, perfect for hikes, picnics, and off-road adventures. Some trails even offer views of the Mediterranean!

🏕 2. Faraya Waterfall & Lakes

Explore Lake Faraya and the waterfall of Chabrouh Dam, a tranquil setting for relaxation or outdoor picnics.

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🏛 Bonus Stop: Roman Temple of Faqra

Located on the Faraya road, this ancient Roman site sits at 1,500 meters and offers striking ruins with columns, stone towers, and natural rock bridges.

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🛏 Where to Stay in Faraya

• InterContinental Mzaar Lebanon Mountain Resort & Spa – Luxurious ski-in/ski-out hotel

• L'Auberge de Faqra – Alpine charm with modern comforts

• Austria Luxury Apartments Faraya – Stylish, cozy, and family-friendly

• Chalets and Airbnb options – Perfect for groups or couples on weekend getaways

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🍴 Where to Eat

• Le Montagnou – Swiss-Lebanese fusion, famous for fondue and views

• Chez Michel – Local favorite with authentic mountain dishes

• Ski Burger – Casual spot for a warm, hearty meal after skiing

• Café L’Aiglon – Cozy stop for coffee, desserts, and mulled wine

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🚘 How to Get There

• 📍 Location: ~50 km northeast of Beirut

• 🚗 By car: 1 to 1.5 hours from Beirut

• 🚖 Private drivers or day tours available during ski season

• 🧭 Roads are accessible year-round, but chains or 4x4 vehicles are recommended during heavy snow

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🕰 Best Time to Visit

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📸 Best Instagrammable Spots

• On the ski lifts with white peaks behind

• Roman ruins of Faqra framed by clouds

• Sunset over the mountains from a chalet terrace

• Chabrouh Dam glistening in the sun