Lebanon, once the residence of Saint George, is a country famous for its cedar trees and spectacular natural beauty. Lebanon has been the home of the Phoenicians before the birth of Christ, captured by the Roman Empire, one of the leading centers of Christianity and much later has been reconquered by the Arabs. The capture of Lebanon by the French , during the early 1900s, to finally gain independence in 1983.
The rich cultural heritage has made Lebanon one of the most popular tourist destinations of the Middle East. Thousands of tourists from all over the world flock to Lebanon every year to catch a glimpse of the ancient centers of power and struggle as well as the spectacular scenic beauty. If you have been thinking of flying to Lebanon for your holidays here is a list of the top three attractions that definitely should not be missed.
Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve
Lebanon is famous for its almost unending cedar vegetation and the Al Shouf Cedar Reserve is one of the top tourist attractions in the country. Located in the Chouf district of Lebanon in the slopes of the Barouk Mountain, this nature reserve is the home of several types of oaks and junipers in addition to cedars. Many beautiful animals and birds like nubian ibex, grey wolf, mountain gazelle, golden jackal, Urasian jay, blackbird, chukar and griffon vulture are found in this forest which accounts for nearly 5.3 percent of the total area of Lebanon.
One of the most impressive and spectacular evidences of the grandeur of the Phoenician and Greco Roman architecture can be found still standing on the south western slopes of the Anti Lebanon Range in the Bekaa valley. The Bekaa ruins attract thousands of tourists from all across the world every year. The greatest attraction here is the Temple of Jupiter that happens to be the biggest surviving temple ever built by the Romans.
Beirut beaches
Lebanon boasts of 140 miles of coastline where the soft wet sand and the sparkling water can blow your minds away. The beautifully maintained beaches are well equipped with hotels, restaurants, cafes, lounges, showers and pools for the comfort and luxury of the tourists.--44
