⛰️ Harissa, Lebanon – A Sacred Hilltop with Sky-High Views

Where divine beauty meets Mediterranean majesty

 

A must-visit for spiritual tourists, photographers, and day-trippers from Beirut

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🧭 Why Visit Harissa?

Harissa, a tranquil mountain village perched above Jounieh Bay, is one of Lebanon’s most iconic pilgrimage and viewpoint destinations. Home to Our Lady of Lebanon (Notre-Dame du Liban), the area draws visitors from around the world seeking faith, peace, and panoramic views.

With its cable car rides, lush pine-covered hills, and breathtaking sunsets, Harissa is not just spiritual — it’s spectacular.

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🌟 Top Things to Do in Harissa

⛪ 1. Our Lady of Lebanon

Harissa’s centerpiece is the 8.5-meter-tall Virgin Mary statue, standing with open arms over the bay. Climb the spiral staircase for sweeping views. The modern basilica next to it is a masterpiece of architectural symbolism.

🚠 2. Ride the Téléférique (Cable Car)

From Jounieh, take Lebanon’s most scenic ride — gliding up cliffs and forests to Harissa. It’s thrilling, beautiful, and only takes 10 minutes.

🌄 3. Sunset Viewing at the Promenade

Stand beside the Virgin Mary statue as the sun sinks into the Mediterranean, and see Jounieh, Beirut, and the whole coast shimmer below.

🛐 4. Attend a Service or Light a Candle

The site is open to all faiths and offers a peaceful space to reflect, pray, or light candles for loved ones.

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📸 Best Photo Spots

• 📷 The Virgin Mary statue with Jounieh Bay in the background

• 📷 Inside the contemporary basilica, with its cedar-inspired structure

• 📷 In the téléférique as you ascend through the forest

• 📷 At golden hour overlooking the coastline

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🧭 Nearby Attractions

• Jeita Grotto – Only 15 minutes away; combine both for a half-day tour

• Jounieh Bay – Beach clubs, seafood, and nightlife

• Byblos (Jbeil) – Just 30–40 minutes north for ancient ruins and harborside cafés

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🍴 Where to Eat in Harissa

• Margherita Harissa – Cozy pizzeria with valley views

• Chez Sami (Jounieh) – Elegant seafood spot by the sea

• Al Ferdaws – Authentic Lebanese dishes with scenic terrace dining

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🛍 What to Buy

• Religious souvenirs (rosaries, cedar wood crosses, statues)

• Handmade crafts and icons

• Local sweets and olive oil soaps

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🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

• Monte Cassino Hotel – Jounieh – Elegant boutique hotel close to the téléférique

• Portemilio Hotel & Resort – Seafront luxury with pools

• Bel Azur Hotel – Great value and location

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🚗 How to Get There

• 📍 Located 27 km north of Beirut

• 🚘 By car: 35–45 minutes from Beirut

• 🚠 By téléférique: From Jounieh (about 10–15 minutes ride)

• 🚖 Taxis and ride apps like Uber and Bolt are available

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🕰 Best Time to Visit