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Qurnat as Sawda
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Mountain
Qurnat as Sawda stands as the highest peak in the Lebanon Mountains and the entire country, reaching an elevation of 3,088 meters. Located in North Lebanon, overlooking the town of Bsharre and the historic Cedars of God, it serves as the geographical pinnacle of the Levant region. Geologically, the mountain is primarily composed of limestone, resulting in a rugged karst landscape marked by sinkholes and fractured rock formations. Due to its extreme altitude, the summit remains snow-covered for nearly six months of the year, acting as a vital freshwater reservoir for the surrounding agricultural valleys. The ascent to the peak is a demanding trek, providing panoramic views that can extend as far as the island of Cyprus and the Syrian coastline on exceptionally clear days. Although vegetation is sparse at high altitudes, the mountain is home to unique alpine flora adapted to harsh winds and freezing temperatures. Its name translates to 'Black Peak,' likely a reference to the dark appearance of its rocky crags once the winter snow has melted.
- Location: Lebanon
- Nearby: Bcharre (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 7 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 19 | 13 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 91 | 68 | 44 | 24 | 12 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 9 | 23 | 46 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to Lebanon's highest peak is typically routed through Bsharri or the Cedars ski resort area; from there, hikers begin their highly demanding ascent over unpaved, unmarked mountain trails that lead steeply and very rockily upward to the summit.
Best season
The best and safest conditions for hiking are widely found during the summer and early autumn months, typically from June to October, when the heavy snow above 3000 meters has finally melted and the weather remains most stable for broad, clear views.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is distinctly high-alpine, extremely steep, highly exposed, and heavily characterized by loose scree; hikers must fully prepare for a strenuous, exhausting ascent at high altitude where sure-footedness on the rocky trails is utterly essential.
What to bring
Mandatory gear strongly includes rigid, ankle-supporting mountaineering boots, multiple warm layers against the freezing summit winds, trekking poles for the loose scree, adequate sun protection, and plenty of water since there are no reliable springs on route.
Parking
Vehicles are usually confidently left in the established parking lots of the Cedars ski resort or at designated, safe trailheads along the main access road before physically beginning the long ascent on foot into the vast, totally unpopulated mountain landscape.
Safety
The greatest risks are the often-underestimated altitude sickness, sudden and drastic weather changes, and dangerous falls on the loose scree; it is strongly advised to start very early, check weather forecasts obsessively, and turn back immediately if exhausted.
Time needed
A complete round-trip hike from the standard trailhead to the summit and safely back down is a highly demanding full-day endeavor that typically requires anywhere between six and nine hours of continuous, strenuous walking for the average fit hiker.
Geography
Facts
- Highest point in Lebanon, measuring 3,088 meters above sea level
- Part of the Makmel Massif in the North Lebanon highlands
- Snow remains on the summit for approximately 180 days per year
- Visibility can reach the island of Cyprus on very clear days
- Formed primarily from Jurassic limestone and dolomite rock
- Its name means 'Black Peak' in the Arabic language
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 Qurnat as Sawda (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Qurnat as-Sauda?
At 3,088 meters, it is the highest peak in Lebanon and the entire Levant region.
Do you need a guide for the climb?
It is recommended as trails are not well marked and weather can change quickly at the summit.
How long does the hike to the summit take?
Starting from The Cedars, the climb takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on fitness and route.
Is there still snow on the mountain in summer?
Snow patches can often remain until June or July in sheltered hollows.
What is the view like from the summit?
On clear days, you can see all of Lebanon, the Mediterranean, and even the island of Cyprus on the horizon.
Qurnat as Sawda: where is it located?
Qurnat as Sawda is located in Lebanon.
Qurnat as Sawda: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Qurnat as Sawda: why is it worth visiting?
Qurnat as Sawda stands as the highest peak in the Lebanon Mountains and the entire country, reaching an elevation of 3,088 meters.
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Tripoli
The second-largest city in Lebanon, famous for its medieval Mamluk architecture and ancient souk.
Bcharre
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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.
Zgharta
A picturesque city in North Lebanon known for its agricultural products and rich history.
Tannourine
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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
Cedars of God
One of the last remaining areas of the extensive Lebanon cedar forests of antiquity.
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.
Nature
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Monastery of Mar Sarkis
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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.
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
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Deir Ammar Power Plant
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Tripoli Citadel
A massive fortress on a hill above the city, originally founded by the Crusader Raymond de Saint-Gilles.