The best cycling routes around Lebanon

There are over 10 touring cycling routes documented in Lebanon, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 300 times, providing valuable insights.

Lebanon's diverse landscape offers a mix of terrain. You can find flatter coastal roads, challenging climbs in the Lebanon Mountains, and expansive routes through the fertile Bekaa Valley. Options range from easy rides to difficult mountain ascents, with routes like the Mascoma Lake loop offering moderate elevation changes.

Yes, Lebanon offers routes suitable for families. For instance, the Mascoma Lake – Northern Rail Trail loop from Lebanon is rated as easy, making it a good option for a more relaxed family outing. Generally, coastal routes tend to be flatter and more accessible for casual rides.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle near the scenic Mascoma Lake or along the Northern Rail Trail. The region also features other beautiful lakes like Deweys Pond and Goose Pond. Beyond these, Lebanon is known for its iconic cedar forests, rugged valleys like Qadisha, and historical sites such as the ancient city of Byblos or Beiteddine Palace, which can be incorporated into longer tours.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. The Mascoma Lake loop is a popular moderate circular route. Another option is the Mascoma Lake – Northern Rail Trail loop from Lebanon, which is an easy circular path. For a shorter, easy ride, consider the Fountain at Colburn Park – Mill Parcel loop from Lebanon.

The best time for touring cycling in Lebanon generally depends on the specific region you plan to explore. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for most areas, including coastal and valley routes. For challenging mountain ascents in the Lebanon Mountains, summer provides the most favorable weather conditions, avoiding snow and colder temperatures at higher elevations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene lake views to challenging mountain passes, and the opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical sites. The variety of routes caters to different skill levels, making it enjoyable for many.

While many routes offer varied terrain, for a relatively easy and longer ride, the Northern Rail Trail provides an 18.1-mile (29.1 km) moderate path that can be completed in about 2 hours 22 minutes, offering a good balance of distance and manageable difficulty.

Yes, Lebanon's rich history means many cycling routes can be planned to include historical and cultural attractions. While specific routes listed here focus on natural beauty like Canaan Street Historic District, the broader region allows for tours that pass ancient olive trees, traditional villages like Mtein, or significant landmarks such as the ancient city of Byblos or Beiteddine Palace.

Lebanon's rugged mountains, particularly the Lebanon Mountains, offer excellent opportunities for challenging multi-day tours. These routes can involve significant climbs and descents, reaching elevations over 3000 meters. While specific multi-day routes are not detailed here, the diverse terrain allows for custom planning of longer, more arduous cycling adventures, especially in areas like Faraya/Mzaar/Kfardebian or Baskinta-Sannine.

Many routes in Lebanon are highly scenic. The Mascoma Lake loop offers beautiful lakeside views. Coastal roads provide stunning Mediterranean vistas, while routes through the Lebanon Mountains, such as those near the Arz-Oyoun Pass, offer breathtaking panoramic views. The Bekaa Valley also provides expansive scenery with Mount Hermon in the background.