Perched 1,650 meters above sea level is the renowned village of Faraya. It is not surprising that Faraya means “the land of fruits and vegetables” in Phoenician. This fertile land has always given generously.

Getting There

Located in the heart of Mount Lebanon, Faraya is an hour drive from Beirut. Take the highway north out of Beirut and take the Zouk Mosbeh exit toward Jeita. Continue on the Ajaltoun – Faraya Highway. Faraya is signposted.

What to Do

Hiking

You can enjoy the Chabrouh mountains in summer by going on a hike. The trails are suitable for adults and kids, with or without a guide. There are also two waterfalls to admire.

Saint Charbel Statue

Atop the Mount of the Cross (Jabal El Salib) stands the largest statue of Saint Charbel. Since it was transported to Faraya in 2017 the 24-meter structure has attracted visitors from near and far.

Chabrouh Dam

Measuring 1,300 meters in length, the Chabrouh Dam, located just above Faraya, is one of Lebanon’s largest dams. Not only can you take a fantastic photo of it, you can also hike the trail around the dam’s perimeter or snowshoe. Equipment is available to rent at the entrance.

Winter Activities

Faraya is located close to the magnificent Mzaar Kfardebian ski slopes, which cater to all levels from complete beginners to advanced skiers. Well-groomed pistes and reliable snow conditions make it a popular choice throughout the winter season. Beyond skiing, visitors can also enjoy snowboarding, snowshoeing and ski-doo rides, which offer a fun way to explore the surrounding landscape.

Where to Eat

Faraya offers solid year-round dining. Bistr’haut (+961 3 481 097) is a dependable choice with a cozy indoor space in colder months and an open terrace in warmer weather. Mons Faraya (+961 3 117 331) delivers a modern menu paired with mountain views making it a popular option throughout the year.

For a livelier scene Sapa (+961 70 911 444) is known for its cocktails and energetic atmosphere while Rikky’z (+961 3 120 201) remains a Faraya classic where après-ski drinks music and mountain views come together in every season.

Where to Sleep

Perch Faraya (+961 3 092 904) offers chalets and lodges in a quiet mountain setting suitable for short stays and longer getaways. Set on a cliff Trinity 5 (+961 70 183 888) features three furnished cabins and a boutique villa with five rooms, making it ideal for families and small groups. Located on the main road, Faraya Village Club (+961 9 320 666) offers alpine-style accommodation an international restaurant an outdoor pool and a free ski shuttle. Viletta Di Faraya (+961 76 188 220) provides studios and chalets with access to an outdoor pool and easy access to Faraya and Mzaar.

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If you enjoyed reading this, check out our article on winter camping in Lebanon.