Ehden

Ehden is a high-altitude historic mountain town in northern Lebanon, located near the Kadisha Valley at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. The settlement is the sister town of Zgharta; according to a centuries-old tradition, residents migrate to Ehden to escape the summer heat, transforming it into the region's most popular summer base, and return to Zgharta in the autumn. The town serves as a historical cradle and stronghold of the Maronite Catholic Church, boasting numerous old churches and monasteries, including the oldest Maronite church, the Chapel of Saint Mamas (Mar Mama), built in 748. In the immediate vicinity of Ehden lies the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, a highly biodiverse mountain forest that is home to numerous rare plant and animal species. The town center, known as the Midan, acts as the bustling hub of social life during the summer, featuring traditional cafes and restaurants.

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.

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.

Zgharta

A picturesque city in North Lebanon known for its agricultural products and rich history.

Laklouk

An all-season resort village known for its ski slopes in winter and terraced agriculture in summer.

Amioun

A town built on a hill that is home to significant Orthodox churches.

Qalamoun

A historic coastal town in North Lebanon, known for its olive groves, traditional brass craftsmanship, and luxury resorts.

Chekka

A coastal town in North Lebanon known for its beaches and cement industry.

History & landmarks

Qadisha Valley

A deep gorge in northern Lebanon that historically served as a refuge for Christian monks.

Cedars of God

One of the last remaining areas of the extensive Lebanon cedar forests of antiquity.

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.

Nature

Batroun Coast

A picturesque coastline in northern Lebanon, known for its natural rock formations and clear bays.

More places

Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve

An isolated forest area in northern Lebanon known for its exceptional botanical diversity.

Qannoubine Valley

A steep and inaccessible valley that served for centuries as a safe haven for Maronite communities.

Monastery of Mar Sarkis

A historic rock-cut monastery in the Qadisha Valley, which now serves as a museum for the famous Lebanese poet Khalil Gibran.

Tannourine Cedar Forest Nature Reserve

One of the densest cedar forests in the country, nestled in a dramatic rocky landscape with deep sinkholes.

Tannourine Mountains

A rugged and forested mountain region in the north, known for its steep cliffs and deep sinkholes.

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Mount Makmel

A rugged mountain region in northern Lebanon, ranking among the highest and most remote parts of the country.

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.

Tripoli Citadel

A massive fortress on a hill above the city, originally founded by the Crusader Raymond de Saint-Gilles.