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Cedars of God
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Landmark
The Cedars of God, located on the slopes of Mount Makmel in northern Lebanon, are the final remnants of the vast cedar forests that once blanketed the Mount Lebanon range. These majestic trees, Cedrus libani, hold immense historical and biblical significance; their timber was prized by ancient empires and used in the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem and the Phoenician maritime fleet. The current grove is a strictly protected UNESCO World Heritage site containing approximately 375 individual trees, some estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Due to millennia of exploitation, the grove is now a symbol of national heritage and environmental resilience, featuring prominently on the Lebanese national flag. Situated at an altitude of about 1,880 meters, the area experiences heavy snowfall in winter, which adds to the ethereal beauty of the ancient giants. Ongoing reforestation initiatives across the country aim to expand the cedar population and preserve this iconic species for the future.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: La Jetée · Qadisha Grotto · Bcharreh Cedars of God Forest
- Nearby: Bcharre (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 4 | 7 | 11 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 21 | 16 | 9 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 57 | 32 | 18 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 15 | 36 | 60 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cedars of God is a protected forest area open to visitors. You can walk through the ancient cedar forest and admire the mighty trees. Entry is usually paid, and there is a visitor center.
Typical hours
The area is typically open daily from around 8am to 6pm, though exact hours may vary by season. In winter, there may be reduced hours or closures.
Photography
Photography is allowed and actively encouraged to capture the impressive trees. Tripods are usually allowed, but drones are often banned or require a permit.
Time needed
A visit takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long you walk through the forest and enjoy the viewpoints. Those who also want to visit the small museum should allow an extra half hour.
Combine with
The site is near the town of Bcharre, where you can also visit the Gibran Museum. A trip to the holy Qadisha Gorge, just a few kilometers away, is also worthwhile.
Getting there
By car, it is easily reached on well-maintained roads from Bcharre, about a 15-minute drive. There is a parking lot at the entrance of the reserve. Alternatively, you can hike from Bcharre.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear as the forest paths are sometimes uneven and rocky. Bring a jacket as it can be cool in the shade of the trees even in summer.
Geography
Facts
- Some individual trees are over 2,000 years old
- Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998
- Located at an elevation of approximately 1,880 meters
- The cedar is the primary symbol on the flag of Lebanon
- Timber was used to build the First Temple in Jerusalem
- The grove consists of roughly 375 remaining ancient trees
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cedars of God (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How old are the trees here?
Some of the cedars are over 1,000 to 2,000 years old and are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry is based on a small donation used for the protection and preservation of the forest.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn are well-suited for hiking; in winter, the forest is often picturesquely covered in snow.
Are the paths accessible?
There are wooden boardwalks that make part of the forest accessible for wheelchair users.
Is smoking allowed in the reserve?
No, due to the high risk of forest fires, smoking and open flames are strictly prohibited.
Cedars of God: where is it located?
Cedars of God is located in Lebanon.
Cedars of God: what is there to see?
Highlights include La Jetée, Qadisha Grotto, Bcharreh Cedars of God Forest.
Cedars of God: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Cedars of God: why is it worth visiting?
The Cedars of God, located on the slopes of Mount Makmel in northern Lebanon, are the final remnants of the vast cedar forests that once blanketed the Mount Lebanon range.
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Nearby cities
Tripoli
The second-largest city in Lebanon, famous for its medieval Mamluk architecture and ancient souk.
Bcharre
A town in the Qadisha Valley, famous as the birthplace of the poet Khalil Gibran.
Ehden
A mountainous summer resort in the north, offering breathtaking views and nature.
Batroun
One of the oldest coastal cities with an impressive Phoenician sea wall and historical churches.
Tannourine
Home to one of Lebanon's densest cedar forests and a hub for outdoor adventure and hiking.
Laklouk
An all-season resort village known for its ski slopes in winter and terraced agriculture in summer.
Zgharta
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Amioun
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Qalamoun
A historic coastal town in North Lebanon, known for its olive groves, traditional brass craftsmanship, and luxury resorts.
Chekka
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History & landmarks
Qadisha Valley
A deep gorge in northern Lebanon that historically served as a refuge for Christian monks.
Baatara Gorge Waterfall
A spectacular waterfall that drops into a cave through three natural limestone bridges.
Douma
A charming mountain village famous for its red-tiled roofs, old souk, and preservation of traditional Lebanese architecture.
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A historic rock-cut monastery in the Qadisha Valley, which now serves as a museum for the famous Lebanese poet Khalil Gibran.
🗺️
Mount Makmel
A rugged mountain region in northern Lebanon, ranking among the highest and most remote parts of the country.
Qannoubine Valley
A steep and inaccessible valley that served for centuries as a safe haven for Maronite communities.
Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve
An isolated forest area in northern Lebanon known for its exceptional botanical diversity.
Qurnat as Sawda
At 3088 meters, it is the highest peak in the Mount Lebanon range, offering views to the coast of Cyprus on clear days.
Tannourine Mountains
A rugged and forested mountain region in the north, known for its steep cliffs and deep sinkholes.
Tannourine Cedar Forest Nature Reserve
One of the densest cedar forests in the country, nestled in a dramatic rocky landscape with deep sinkholes.
Tripoli Citadel
A massive fortress on a hill above the city, originally founded by the Crusader Raymond de Saint-Gilles.