After departing from Beirut and heading north towards Byblos, we will enjoy a captivating visit to the remarkable Jeita Grotto. This expansive network of limestone caves stretches nearly 9 kilometres and houses one of the world's largest collections of stalactites and stalagmites. A national icon, the grotto was a finalist in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition. Depending on the water levels, exploration can be done both on foot and by boat.

Our next stop is Harissa, renowned for its significant Christian shrine, Our Lady of Lebanon, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. We’ll take a cable car ride to the summit of the Basilica, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Bay of Jounieh, one of the most stunning bays in the Middle East.

Following this, we’ll travel inland to the exceptional Baatara Gorge sinkhole. During the spring and particularly the rainy season, a 255-metre waterfall tumbles into the vast cavern known as the Baatara Pothole. The cave is also called the Cave of the Three Bridges due to the three natural stone arches that span over the waterfall. This awe-inspiring natural wonder provides an opportunity for a short hike, and we’ll also have time to visit the nearby Douma Village. A traditional Lebanese lunch is included in the itinerary.

The day concludes with a brief drive to the picturesque Qadisha Valley, where we will overnight at the Monastery of St. Anthony. We’ll stay in a separate building offering simple yet comfortable en-suite rooms (or a nearby guesthouse if the monastery is unavailable or closed to visitors).

Those who wish to may rise early this morning to take part in the morning prayers with the monks at the monastery. Following breakfast, we will have the opportunity to explore the Qadisha Valley, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area, often referred to as the Holy Valley, is traversed by the sacred Nahr Qadisha River. Numerous caves can be found along its steep cliffs, once used as dwellings and burial places in ancient times. It is an ideal location for a short morning hike.

Our first stop after leaving the valley is the nearby village of Becharre, the birthplace of Lebanon's celebrated novelist and poet, Kahlil Gibran. The village is home to a museum dedicated to his life and work, showcasing his paintings and manuscripts. Next, we visit the Cedars Ski Resort, renowned for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Nearby, you'll find the Cedars of God, which houses the last surviving groves of the cedar forests that once flourished in the region. These famed cedar trees, Cedrus Libani, are mentioned in the Old Testament and are a national symbol of Lebanon.

Later today, we arrive in Byblos, an ancient Phoenician city believed to have been inhabited for up to 7000 years. Locally known as Jbeil, it is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Byblos is home to numerous important historical and archaeological sites, as well as a charming Phoenician harbour.

We dedicated this morning to discovering the harbour area and the key attractions of Byblos. Our journey today will take us to the village of Zahle, but we’ll first make a stop at the Ksara Winery, reputedly the oldest in Lebanon. The winery's caves and tunnels stretch for about 2 miles and have served as wine cellars for many generations. You’ll be given a guided tour of the caves and winery before enjoying a wine tasting session, where you can sample the produce and purchase any you may like.

Today, we make our way to Baalbek, a must-see destination on any trip to Lebanon. Known as "Heliopolis" or the "City of the Sun" by the Romans and Greeks, Baalbek is home to a remarkable temple complex that remains in outstanding condition. This complex, one of the finest examples of Roman architecture at its zenith, was constructed as a sanctuary to honour the Heliopolitan triad of deities: Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury. Pilgrims would travel in large numbers to worship the triad. The temple is still mostly preserved, offering immense artistic and historical significance.

Next, we visit the Umayyad city of Anjar, situated in the Bekaa Valley. Established in the 8th century by Caliph Walid, the city showcases impressive town-planning and includes mosques, palaces, and baths. Additionally, it contains 600 shops, underscoring its importance as a thriving commercial hub.

In the afternoon, we will return to Beirut.

We depart Beirut after breakfast and head towards the Chouf Mountains to explore the village of Deir al Qamar, which translates to "Monastery of the Moon." This village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as Lebanon's capital in the 17th century. With its picturesque stone houses and winding streets, it exudes charm and serenity.

Next, we proceed to the stunning Beiteddine Palace. Built in the 19th century by Emir Bashir, this remarkably preserved palace stands as a magnificent example of the era's grandeur and luxury.

In the afternoon, we return to Beirut, where we have time for a city tour. Lebanon’s capital and largest city, Beirut is one of the world’s oldest cities and has experienced a tumultuous past, both ancient and modern. This is reflected in the striking contrast between contemporary buildings and centuries-old structures, some still bearing the scars of the civil war in the 1970s. Notable highlights include the Beirut Souks, the Corniche, and the downtown area. We will also visit the Pigeon Grotto, or the Rock of Raouché, a famous natural formation rising dramatically from the sea.

Today, we embark on a journey to the south of Lebanon. Our first stop is Tyre, known as Sour in Arabic. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, Tyre was a prominent ancient Phoenician city. The city is home to numerous significant historical sites and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next, we travel to Sidon, or Saida, an ancient Phoenician city, possibly the oldest of its kind. Sidon thrived due to its renowned glass production and the extraction of a purple dye from the murex shellfish. Today, it is a rapidly developing city with considerable administrative and commercial importance.

In Saida, we will explore the Crusader Sea Castle, the Great Mosque, Khan el Franj, and various other notable landmarks. You will also have the opportunity to wander through the charming old souks. We will then spend the night in Beirut.

Today marks the final day of the tour, and you have the opportunity to further explore Beirut at your leisure before being transferred to the airport for your return flight home.