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Horsh Beirut
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Horsh Beirut is the largest public park in the Lebanese capital, taking the form of a vast pine forest covering approximately 300,000 square meters in the southern part of the city. Historically, the woodland was much larger, extending all the way to the sea before urban expansion and conflict significantly reduced its size. Following massive devastation during the Lebanese Civil War, the area was heavily reforested in the 1990s with new stone pines. For many years, the park was largely closed to the public to allow the young saplings to grow undisturbed, until it partially reopened in 2015. Today, Horsh Beirut serves as the ecological backbone of the city, offering shaded jogging tracks and a rare, peaceful green sanctuary for urban residents.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: No-Saffé-Land · Fantasy World - Kids · Elissar
- Nearby: Khalde (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 115 | 82 | 43 | 23 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 23 | 56 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to this urban park is usually via Beirut's main roads, with entrances near busy intersections. Visitors often arrive by taxi or local transit.
Best season
The most pleasant months to visit the pine forest are typically during spring and autumn. Summer afternoons can be quite warm, favoring early morning walks.
Terrain & paths
The terrain consists mostly of flat, well-maintained walking paths that gently wind through the dense pine trees. These trails are generally very easy.
What to bring
It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for flat park trails and bring sun protection. Carrying a bottle of water is also advised.
Parking
Finding parking directly next to the park can sometimes be difficult due to typical urban traffic. Visitors often utilize nearby side streets for spots.
Safety
The environment is generally considered a safe and peaceful retreat, but standard urban awareness regarding personal belongings is always recommended.
Time needed
A standard visit to wander through the pine forest and appreciate the fresh air typically lasts between one and two hours at a very relaxed pace.
Geography
Facts
- Largest continuous public park in Beirut
- Spans approximately 300,000 square meters
- Primarily planted with stone pine trees
- Massively reforested post-civil war in the 1990s
- Partially reopened to general public in 2015
- Historically extended all the way to the sea
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
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Horsh Beirut (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is Horsh Beirut open?
Usually accessible daily from 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are generally not allowed to protect the flora.
How large is the park?
At about 30 hectares, it is the largest green space in Beirut.
Are there shaded areas?
Yes, the park is famous for its many pine trees providing plenty of shade.
Is picnicking allowed there?
Yes, picnics are allowed as long as trash is disposed of properly.
Horsh Beirut: where is it located?
Horsh Beirut is located in Lebanon.
Horsh Beirut: what is there to see?
Highlights include No-Saffé-Land, Fantasy World - Kids, Elissar.
Horsh Beirut: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Horsh Beirut: why is it worth visiting?
Horsh Beirut is the largest public park in the Lebanese capital, taking the form of a vast pine forest covering approximately 300,000 square meters in the southern part of the city.
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Beirut
The capital and largest city of Lebanon, known for its rich history and culture.
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Broummana
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Sahl Ej Jiyeh
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Kfardebian
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Bickfaya
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Sawfar
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Dhour El Choueir
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Hammana
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History & landmarks
National Museum of Beirut
The principal museum of archaeology in Lebanon, preserving the country's history.
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
A striking mosque in downtown Beirut known for its blue domes and Ottoman architecture.
Saint George Maronite Cathedral
The main cathedral of the Maronite Archdiocese of Beirut, built in a neoclassical style.
Roman Baths of Beirut
Ancient thermal baths in the heart of Beirut showcasing the city's historical heritage as a Roman colony.
Sursock Museum
A modern and contemporary art museum located in a magnificent villa in Beirut.
Pigeon Rocks
Two huge rock formations in the sea off the coast of Beirut's Raouché district.
Jeita Grotto
An impressive system of karstic limestone caves in Lebanon, divided into two levels.
Beiteddine Palace
A masterpiece of 19th-century Lebanese architecture in the Chouf Mountains.
Nature
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Martyrs' Monument in Beirut
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Port of Beirut
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Beirut Airport Free Trade Zone
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