Family-Friendly Adventures in Anjar!

Anjar

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Anjar, Lebanon

Morning: Explore the Umayyad Ruins

Start your day early by visiting the historical Umayyad Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site unique for its early Islamic architecture influenced by Roman and Byzantine styles. Located just off the Beirut-Damascus road, Anjar is easily accessible by car or local taxis from Beirut, which is about an hour"s drive. Wander through the grand palace, mosque, and bath complexes while enjoying a live history lesson. The layout of the city is fascinating as it’s the only example of an inland commercial center from the Umayyad period, making it a unique testament to urban planning from over a millennium ago.

Midday: Picnic at Anjar Springs

Just a short walk from the ruins, Anjar Springs offers a picturesque setting ideal for a family picnic. The springs are surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene spot to relax and enjoy a meal. This is a great way for the family to recharge while the kids can play around in nature.

Afternoon: Shopping at the Anjar Souk

After lunch, head to the Anjar Souk. This local market is a wonderful place to experience the vibrant culture of Anjar. You can shop for traditional handicrafts, local foods, and souvenirs. The souk is known for its friendly vendors and colorful stalls, making it a perfect spot for families to immerse themselves in local traditions and perhaps pick up a handcrafted memento.

Evening: Enjoy Authentic Lebanese Dinner

Conclude your day with a meal at one of Anjar"s family-friendly restaurants. Opt for a place that offers outdoor seating so you can enjoy the scenic views while tasting local dishes like kibbeh, tabbouleh, and hummus. It"s a delicious end to a day full of exploration and cultural immersion!

This itinerary ensures a wholesome and educational experience, balancing historical exploration with relaxation and local culture, perfect for a family outing in Anjar.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jeita Grotto

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Jeita Grotto

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your family adventure to Jeita Grotto by heading north of Beirut, approximately 20 km away. The most convenient way to get there is by car or taxi, which allows for flexibility with children. Aim to arrive at opening time (9:00 AM) to avoid large crowds.

Upon arrival, begin your exploration at the Lower Grotto. Here, you"ll take a serene boat ride on a subterranean lake. The enchanting atmosphere is perfect for sparking the imaginations of young adventurers. The grotto is well-lit, but remind the little ones to keep quiet to preserve the tranquil setting.

Midday: Educational Fun and Lunch

After exploring the lower section, take a break at the on-site cafeteria which offers a range of kid-friendly options. Post lunch, head to the Upper Grotto, accessible via a funicular railway, which is sure to thrill the kids. Inside, marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about their formation — an excellent real-life geology lesson for curious minds!

Afternoon: Leisure and Learning

Post exploration, spend some time in the spacious garden area, where kids can enjoy the playground. Don’t miss the documentary available in the mini-theater, which provides insightful details about the discovery and history of the caves, enhancing what you’ve just seen underground.

Interesting Facts

- Jeita Grotto is a finalist for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

- The grotto houses the largest stalactite in the world.

Preparation Tips

- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as it can get chilly inside the grotto.

- Photography is not allowed inside the caves, so prepare to store your devices securely.

End your day with a scenic drive back to Beirut, reflecting on the natural wonders you explored together. This engaging blend of adventure, education, and relaxation is sure to leave lasting memories for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Baalbek

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Baalbek, Lebanon

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Baalbek Roman Ruins

Start your day early in Beirut and drive approximately 2 hours northeast to the ancient city of Baalbek. Nestled in the Bekaa Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. Begin at the Baalbek Museum, located right at the entrance of the complex, where interactive displays captivate young minds with stories of gods, construction, and ancient rituals.

10:00 AM: Tour of the Temples

Join a guided tour to explore the massive stone structures including the Temple of Jupiter, known for its towering columns, and the intricate Temple of Bacchus. Kids will be fascinated by the size of the stones; the largest stone at Baalbek, called the "Stone of the Pregnant Woman", weighs about 1000 tons and is a mystery even today.

12:00 PM: Picnic Lunch

Pack a lunch and enjoy a family picnic in the nearby fields or in the designated areas where you can absorb the view of the ruins against the backdrop of Lebanon’s beautiful landscapes.

Afternoon: Visit to Anjar

A 40-minute drive from Baalbek, visit the city of Anjar, another historical treasure. Explore Islamic architecture and learn about the Umayyad dynasty. The site is smaller and less crowded, perfect for a leisurely walk to digest both the meal and the rich history.

3:00 PM: Local Snack and Cultural Interaction

Conclude your day by visiting a local bakery or café in Baalbek town to try some Lebanese sweets like baklava or a refreshing glass of Jallab. Interacting with local vendors offers a friendly cultural exchange and a peek into Lebanese hospitality.

Late Afternoon: Return to Beirut

Wrap up the day with a scenic drive back to Beirut, filled with stories and memories from the historical heart of Lebanon.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Byblos (Jbeil)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore Ancient Byblos

Morning: Start your day at the heart of Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Visit the Byblos Archaeological Site to see ancient ruins that span several civilizations including the Phoenicians and Romans. Enter through the main gate near Byblos Castle, a stunning 12th-century fortress built by the Crusaders. Take a guided tour to better understand the layers of history beneath your feet.

Lunch: Enjoy a family lunch at one of the local restaurants by the harbor, where you can try traditional Lebanese seafood dishes like grilled fish or calamari.

Afternoon: After lunch, stroll down to the historic Byblos Harbor, a picturesque area with fishing boats and yachts. It"s a great spot for family photos and a gentle walk along the sea. Engage your kids with tales of ancient mariners and the trade that flowed through this port, which is among the oldest in the world.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Leisure

Morning: Visit the Wax Museum located a short walk from the Byblos city center. This museum offers a fun and educational insight into Lebanon’s history through lifelike wax figures of historical characters. It"s engaging for children and provides a colorful narrative of the country"s past.

Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a local bakery and try some manakish, a delicious Lebanese flatbread.

Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at the Byblos Public Park, a few minutes" drive from the city center. It"s a beautiful, tranquil space perfect for children to play and adults to relax. Alternatively, explore the vibrant Byblos Souks, where you can shop for souvenirs, local crafts, and experience the bustling local life.

Each location in Byblos is within walking distance or a short drive, making it convenient for families with children. Always check opening hours in advance, as they may vary seasonally. Enjoy your family adventure in this charming, historic city!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Our Lady of Lebanon (Notre Dame du Liban)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Our Lady of Lebanon (Notre Dame du Liban)

Morning

Start your day at Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, a majestic statue and pilgrimage site overlooking the Jounieh Bay. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat. The easiest way to reach Harissa is by car or taxi directly to the lower station of the Téléférique (cable car) in Jounieh, which offers a scenic 9-minute ride up to Harissa. The stunning views from the cable car will captivate both kids and adults alike.

Once at the top, explore the sanctuary. The statue stands at 8.5 meters tall and is a symbol of peace and faith, offering panoramic views that are perfect for family photos. Learn about the history of the shrine, constructed in the early 20th century, and take some time for reflection in the serene surroundings.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the adjacent gardens or dine at one of the local restaurants near the sanctuary, where you can try traditional Lebanese dishes like falafel and tabbouleh.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a short walk or a taxi ride to the Teleferique Station and visit the Jeita Grotto, one of Lebanon’s natural wonders, located just 20 minutes away. This impressive cave system will thrill the kids with its mysterious rock formations and the ethereal beauty of the underground world. Boat rides inside the lower caves add to the adventure.

Evening

Return to Jounieh and end your day with a leisurely stroll along the bustling seaside promenade. Enjoy a sweet treat like Lebanese ice cream or some fresh fruit from a local vendor as you watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.

This day-long itinerary combines spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, making it perfect for a family outing at Our Lady of Lebanon.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.