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Cyprus & Lebanon Tour

with Martin Charlton
TOURCODE: MCCL

Duration:
16 Days

Activity Level:
2

When To Go:

Countries Visited:
2

Arrive In / Depart From:
Limassol (LCA) / Beirut (BEI)

Max Group Size:
18

Tour Style:
Cultural

Price From:

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

  • Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
  • Authentic local experiences with lots of inclusions.
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Countries Visited: 2 Activity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

LEBANON - Once the heart of the Phoenician empire and now a modern coastal country where the Middle East meets West. This is a captivating land dripping with the history and culture of some of the world’s greatest civilizations, as well as overwhelming hospitality. The Phoenician civilization originated in Lebanon, but the country has been successively conquered by the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Ottoman empires.

This tour will expose you to the best of the country including the many incredible historical and archaeological sites, atmospheric souks, crusader castles, and superb scenery. The Roman temples here rank among the finest and largest in the world. Explore the impressive ruins of Baalbek - home to the largest Roman temple ever built, as well as a range of other magnificent ancient structures. Sidon is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The Crusaders left their mark in castles and fortresses built as a show of military strength and to defend their gains, and they have stood the test of time. And though fading in places, and scarred by war, Beirut’s mix of Ottoman and French colonial architecture is still humblingly beautiful.

Spread across a tiny part of the Middle East, Lebanon is a fantastic travel destination with exciting and engaging cultural elements, rich history, remarkable architecture, and natural wonders.

CYPRUS - From south to north, mountain to shore, this tour will chart the history and heritage of 'Aphrodite’s Island' via classical temples, Byzantine chapels, Venetian castles, and hidden villages. We will visit monuments and museums on both sides of Nicosia’s divide, as well as the Troodos Mountains, spectacular Roman ruins, legendary Aphrodite’s Rock, and the catacombs and colourful mosaics of Paphos.

This is an island that is divided both physically and emotionally, and during our tour you will discover the country’s history from its early settlement to the many civilizations that have since followed.

 


 

Full Itinerary
Full Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrival in Larnaca, Cyprus
Welcome to Cyprus!*

Our start hotel is located in Limassol, with its beautiful old town.

* The best international airport at which to arrive is Larnaca (LCA).

Overnight in Limassol.

Included Meal(s): Dinner



Day 2 Limassol & the Kingdom of Kourion
The start of our journey today takes us along the islands' fertile southern coast to the ancient Kingdom of Kourion - situated on one of the most spectacular sites in the island. This area was continuously occupied from the Neolithic period until the Late Roman period and later, although it is largely a Hellenistic and Roman city that is visible today on the acropolis on the Kourion bluff that overlooks the sea.

The extensive archaeological ruins here include well-preserved mosaics, and a magnificent Greco Roman amphitheatre dating from the 2nd Century BC - famous for its vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. This site is also renowned for its preserved mosaic floors in the House of Eustolios, the House of Achilles and the House of the Gladiators.

From here we pass through the Fasouri citrus plantations and come across the medieval castle of Kolossi. Kolossi Castle was built during the 13th century, not long after the island was conquered by the Crusaders. Kolossi Castle was once an important military stronghold and notable economic center due to the fertile agricultural land of the surrounding area (still productive today). The best-known of these is the Commandaria, a dessert wine from Cyprus regarded to be one of the oldest manufactured wines in the world.

We end our day back at Limassol (also called Lemesos), the second largest city in Cyprus, the island’s main port, and the centre of the wine industry of the island. Limassol traces its history to the Middle Ages and takes its name from being situated between (anamesa) the ancient Kingdom of Kourion and Amathus. According to tradition, the medieval Castle of Limassol is where King Richard the Lionheart of England married Princess Berengaria of Navarre in the castle’s small chapel in 1192. Our city touring will start from the most modern and recently built part of Limassol - the Marina, with its boutiques, yachts, bars and restaurants. Our walking tour will lead us through the Old Port of Limassol and the promenade on the way to the beautiful Ayia Napa Church - located in the heart of Limassol old town district. We will visit the medieval Castle of Limassol. Wrapped around the Limassol castle, the historic center combines beautiful old buildings in combination with modern architecture.

Overnight in Limassol.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 3 Omodos - Troodos - Kykkos - Kalopanagiotis
This morning we depart for our exploration of the Troodos mountains - the largest mountain range in Cyprus stretching cross a third of the island. Within the mountains and valleys of Troodos are scenic villages offering a taste of Cyprus’ traditional architecture, decorated with cobbled streets and oozing with charm and hospitality.

The island’s largest mountain range, the Troodos, reaches 1,952 meters at Olympus peak. Dense pine and cedar stretches from the Paphos forest all the way to the Macheras monastery outside Nicosia. Rural Cyprus is scattered with small and picturesque villages, each with its own character and local legends. From the wine producing villages outside north of Limassol and Paphos to the forest encircled communities of Platres and Kakopetria, Troodos is home to hundreds of churches, monasteries and heritage sites as well as leading wineries, restaurants and tavernas that give the visitor a taste of the real Cyprus.”

Here we will enjoy a walk (approximately 2 miles / 3km) along one of the many nature trails found in the Troodos National Forest Park. More than 20 designated walking trails have been created to highlight the beautiful landscapes and strong Mediterranean character of the island, and by enjoying a walk here we can appreciate the treasure trove of varied fauna and flora, as well as the remnants of the island’s heritage and interesting monuments.

With a history dating 6,000 years back Cyprus has to offer a rich history. The wine villages in Troodos are perhaps the most renowned on the island. Omodos is a traditional Cypriot wine producing village that was once the property of Sir John De Brie, Prince of Galilee. The village is renowned for its Monastery of the Holy Cross – one of the oldest and most historic monasteries of Cyprus. Apart from its byzantine era icons, it holds excellent wood carvings and other ecclesiastical objects of interest, as well as a small national museum.

Cyprus has an ideal climate for growing grapes, and Omodos has a long tradition in wine making – a true art on this island. In addition to its vineyards, the village is also home to the Omodos Wine Press (Linos tou Charilaou), a stunning medieval artifact. We will stop and sample the local wines and liqueurs: a selection of white and red wines, the famous Commandaria desert wine and of course Zivania. We can make a break here for a traditional meze lunch in one of the local taverns, and this allowing you to sample and savor the ‘taste of Cyprus’.

Kykkos is the richest and most significant monastery on the island. Founded in 1100 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it possesses one of the three surviving icons ascribed to St. Luke and it’s famous ecclesiastical museum houses icons and objects from the Byzantine era.

Our overnight point is a beautiful village and a popular summer resort, thanks to its charming character and breathtaking scenery of pine forests that stretch across the Karkotis Valley. The old quarter of the village with its narrow, stone paved alleys and its traditional houses with their wooden balconies have been restored has been declared a protected cultural heritage site.

Overnight in Kalopanagiotis Village.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 4 Byzantine Churches
We will start our day with a short walk in Kalopanayiotis. After exploring the mill we will cross the bridge to the other side of the river Setrachos and walk along the narrow trail in the shade of the forest where we can see the Venetian bridge and natural sulphur springs.

The monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis is situated in a central area of the Troodos mountain range in the valley of Marathasa. This is a complex of three churches: Agios Irakleidios, Ioannis Lambadistis and a Latin chapel all under a single pitched roof, and today the church is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A drive through the picturesque villages continues on to our next visit in the village of Pedhoulas. Here was can visit the church of Archangel Michael in Pedoulas – also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dating back to 1474. It has a pitched wooden roof that is typical of the Troodos churches, and the paintings here are in the local post-Byzantine style that was popular prior to Venetian rule.

At Kakopetria village we can see the church of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis which stands completely painted with murals dating from the 11th to the 17th century, and today is considered one of the most interesting Byzantine churches on the island.

Overnight in Kalopanagiotis Village.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 5 Nicosia: The Medieval Capital
Today we enjoy a full-day tour of Nicosia, or Lefkosia, situated roughly at the centre of the island, with a rich history that can be traced back to the Bronze Age. Thought to have originated as a small town (Ledra) established by Lefkonas, son of Ptolemy I in 300 BC, Nicosia grew significantly under the Byzantines. Its inland position, protected by the island’s two main mountain ranges, kept it safe from attack from the sea, and well placed for the political and religious administration of the country.

Today the city brilliantly blends its historic past with the bustle of a modern city. The heart of the city, enclosed by the 16th century Venetian walls, is dotted with museums, ancient churches and medieval buildings preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of years past. The famous Famagusta Gate still stands today, proudly protecting the still ancient town within from the modern city without.

We will enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the capital of Cyprus, and will visit the prominent Archaeological museum situated within the forbidding Venetian walls. Here we find a fascinating collection of Cypriot antiquities and treasures from the Neolithic age to the Early Byzantine period.

From there, we will drive to the cathedral of St. John the Evangelist and its 18th Century wall paintings; depicting scenes from the Bible and the discovery of the tomb of St. Barnabas in Salamis.

We pass by Laiki Geitonia and stroll at leisure down its stone paved streets and enjoy a break for lunch along Ledras Street.

Crossing into the northern part of Nicosia we will visit Ayia Sophia (from outside) dating from 1209. This is perhaps one of the most beautiful and impressive historical monuments in Cyprus, with its architectural style resembling French medieval cathedrals. After the military conflict in 1974, when Cyprus was divided into two parts, Saint Sophia (renamed Selimiye Mosque) was taken over by the occupied northern part of Cyprus, and since 1975 has been the main place of worship for Muslims and known as the Selimiye Mosque.

We will explore Büyük Khan, one of the most important architectural works of the Ottoman period, and the largest caravanserai of the island. If we are lucky we will be able to witness a Whirling Dervish performance when here.

Overnight in Nicosia.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 6 Exploring Kyrenia
Today we enjoy a full day exploring Kyrenia and Bellapais Village.

Kyrenia Harbour is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful locations in North Cyprus and one of the prettiest in the Mediterranean.... with its horseshoe-shaped harbour dominated by Kyrenia Castle. The town itself was founded in the 10th century BC, one of Cyprus’s original city kingdoms. Its location on the north coast, only 40 miles from the Turkish mainland, meant that it soon developed as a major trading centre. The harbour-front buildings were once warehouses, and leading off the harbour are the narrow streets of the old town.

After passing through the checkpoint to cross the border into the North, our first stop will be the Saint Hilarion Castle - the best preserved ruin of the three former strongholds in Pentadaktylos. Perched high in the Kyrenia mountain range, overlooking the Mediterranean and the surrounding areas of the North Cyprus landscape, stands the castle of St Hilarion. Providing the castle with command of the pass road from Kyrenia to Nicosia, Hilarion is the best preserved ruin of the three former strongholds in the Kyrenia mountain range, the others being Kantara and Buffavento. Much of the castle was dismantled by the Venetians in the 15th century to reduce the up-keeping cost of garrisons.

We continue to Bellapais situated east of Kyrenia. The tranquil and beautiful village stands in the Kyrenia mountain range with breathtaking views, tiny streets and ancient buildings around every corner. The main feature of Bellapais village is undoubtedly its wonderful abbey.

We will have a visit around the Bellapais Abbey which is a fine example of Gothic architecture of the Lusignan period. Our last visit, will be the scenic harbour and the Kyrenia Castle which houses two interesting museums; the museum of Kyrenia and the shipwreck museum where one of the oldest known shipwrecks in the world is exhibited.

Overnight Nicosia.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 7 Athienou & Larnaca Exploration
Our adventure today starts with a visit to the village of Athienou, one of only a few villages which are located in the United Nations Buffer Zone. Athienou is encircled by the buffer zone, in a crescent shape ironically, leaving it somewhat isolated. The Khani tou Mestana 'caravanserai' of Athienou, built in the second half of the 19th century, has survived and has recently been restored. It was used by those traveling between Larnaca to Nicosia.

Athienou has a rich wheat growing and bread-making history, and is famous for its delicious traditional bread – known locally as ‘Athienitiko’ - and its pastries, and during our time here we will visit the mill and observe the traditional methods of bread making. Bread production here covers the needs of all Cyprus and is even exported abroad. The same applies to the many dairy products produced in the village.

We will make a break for lunch at a local restaurant. The traditional ofto kleftiko (roast lamb) of Athienou is delicious, having been cooked in traditional outdoor wood fire ovens, in clay pots or metal baking trays. “Ofto” means baked, while “Kleftiko” means stolen. Why stolen? Animal stealing was an old custom observed among shepherds throughout Cyprus. A stolen animal every now and then was often considered a case of “tolerated theft” as such practices were perceived as a form of “food sharing”.

Our touring then takes us then to the city of Larnaca. Built on the ruins of Kition, as the town used to be known, Larnaca was one of the several ancient city kingdoms of the island and is located at the southeast cape of the island. During the beginning of the 2nd century BC. Cyprus needed ports in order to satisfy the increasing marine needs, the merchant trades of the world then and the increasing export of copper from Cyprus towards other well-known civilisations. Larnaca was at an excellent geographical position for easy access to Syria, Palestine, the Aegean and Egypt. The town’s heyday was as an ancient city kingdom established by the Mycenaean Greeks in the 13th century BC, when it enjoyed the dual position of rich sea port and major centre of the copper trade. Remains of that period excavated in recent years can be seen in its Cyclopean walls and a complex of Mycenaean temples at the ancient Kition site.

We will visit of the Tekke Mosque of Hala Sultan, an important place of pilgrimage for the island’s Muslims. After our city tour we will visit the cathedral of St. Lazarus (the first bishop of Kition) originally built in 900 AD with three large domes and decorated with an impressive iconostasis.

Overnight in Larnaca.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 8 Discovering The Ammochostos Region
This morning we will cross the border in Strovilia and head to Salamis, the great city founded in the 11th century BC. The spectacular ruins here include its magnificent amphitheatre, Roman baths, gymnasium and royal tombs known as the Necropolis of Salamis. Salamis was believed to have been the capital of Cyprus as far back as 1100 BC, in the late Bronze Age. A large city located on the eastern side of the island north of Famagusta, it survived successive occupations by many dominant groups over the course of its history, including Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians and Romans, but eventually succumbed to the forces of nature. Today this site extends over an area of one square mile extending along the North Cyprus coast and inland, revealing a glimpse back into time whilst still hiding its core, buried and yet revealed.

Just inland one finds the church of St. Barnabas, the founder of the apostolic church in Cyprus in 45 AD. The church is now an icon museum.

We then continue our visit to Kantara Castle - one of the three crusader castles on the Pentadaktylos Mountain. At 700m above sea level, this castle commands the Mesaoria Plains and Karpasia Peninsula. Whilst it is widely believed that the castle was built to protect the coastline from Arab raids that took place in the 7th Century, the first time Kantara is mentioned in written records is when Richard the Lionheart conquered Cyprus in 1191. Our visit reveals the ruins of the old defensive emplacements, accommodation facilities for soldiers, water cisterns, vaulted rooms, watch towers and of course breath-taking views of the northern shoreline.

In the afternoon we will return to Larnaca for dinner and overnight.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 9 Cyprus - Fly to Beirut, Lebanon
Today we say farewell to Cyprus and take a short flight to Beirut, Lebanon

A trip through Lebanon is a journey through the annals of some of the world’s greatest civilizations. With over 5,000 years of recorded history, the country is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, waiting to be discovered by visitors who want a glimpse into the ancient and modern past. Most of

Lebanon is famous for its exquisite beauty, diversity, hospitable people, rich culture and history. Lebanese cities are among some of the most famous names in ancient history, and a wealth of majestic ruins still stand today as a testimony to the greatness of people who lived in this land.

Here we will explore a diverse patchwork of Mediterranean-lapped coast, rugged peaks, and green fertile valleys all packed into a parcel of land some 225km long and 46km wide – an area approximately the size of Cyprus or Connecticut.

Beirut is one of the oldest cities in the world. Having been inhabited as early as 3000 BC, several ancient civilizations have left their mark on the city. Legend has it that Beirut was destroyed and rebuilt seven times throughout its history, hence why it is nicknamed "the phoenix" after the mythical bird that rises from the ashes and regenerates itself. With its liberal character, this is one of the great capitals of the Middle East.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 10 Beirut City Tour & National Museum
Our day today is dedicated to the discovery of Beirut. Once known as the ‘Paris of the Middle East’, Beirut is a surprising and dynamic city, and our visit here will offer you an immersion into the city life of Beirut. Reputed to be one of the oldest cities in the world, Beirut encompasses Phoenician, Crusader and Ottoman influences and has risen from the ashes of its recent troubles to become once more one of the most dynamic cities in the Levant. Downtown Beirut includes contemporary high-rises, as well as, Parisian-style buildings constructed in traditional styles. Here the new blends well with the old.

Our city exploration will include visits to Martyrs' Square, the great Muhammad Al-Amin Mosque, St George's Church, the Roman Baths and Raouche – the southern part of the corniche with Pigeon Rock.

The National Museum of Beirut will reveal centuries of archaeological riches from prehistory to the Mamluk period. Located on the former Green Line, this is Beirut's major cultural institution. Its impressive, magnificently displayed collection of archaeological artefacts offers a great overview of Lebanon’s history and the civilisations that impacted this cultural crossroads.

Facing the northern tip of the harbour, the Omari (Great) Mosque is said to be one of the finest examples of Islamic religious architecture of the 13th century and was converted from a fortified Knights Hospitaller structure. The interior has been beautifully restored.

The Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque – one of the city's major landmarks, is a huge, striking amber-coloured blue-domed mosque near Martyrs Square. This is the largest mosque in Lebanon (opened in 2008), and the soaring main hall can hold approximately 3700 worshippers.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 11 Jeita Grotto - Byblos - Batroun - Harissa
Today's journey takes us north to one of the greatest natural wonders of the region – a fascinating labyrinth of caves. Jeita Caves (Jeita Grotto) stretches for several kilometers in the hollow of the Lebanese mountains and is divided into two parts: the upper part that we can explore on foot and the lower part that we will explore by boat.

We next head to picturesque port Byblos (Jbeil in Arabic) – one of the oldest cities in the world and one of the few sites inhabited continuously from the time of their foundation to the present day. The ruins of many successive civilizations are found at Byblos, one of the oldest Phoenician cities. Inhabited since Neolithic times, it has been closely linked to the legends and history of the Mediterranean region for thousands of years. Byblos is also directly associated with the history and diffusion of the Phoenician alphabet.

During our visit to Byblos we will discover the crusader castle and the Roman site that overlooks the ancient fishing port - offering a magnificent panoramic view of the translucent waters of the Mediterranean. We will walk the narrow alleys and the old souks of the city which hide treasures of all kinds.

In the coastal city of Batroun we will walk through the alleyways to get to know more about the history of this location. We will discover the charming little town and its natural barrier, which today is the most important remnant of the Phoenician period. Probably because of its proximity to the holy valley of Qadisha, Batroun is imbued with Christian faith. Here one finds approximately twenty churches, including the Byzantine churches of Saint Stephen and St. George situated near the port. Once a flourishing city and port in Phoenician times, the Greeks gave it the name Botrys, ‘bunch of grapes’, referring to the vineyards that covered the area.

We will proceed to Harissa and venture up to the pilgrimage site and sanctuary of Our Lady of Lebanon, an important pilgrimage place built in 1904 for the 50th anniversary of the dogma of the “Immaculate Conception”. A huge statue of Mary called “Our Lady of Lebanon,” or “Virgin of Lebanon” was inaugurated in 1908, and the statue embraces a chapel in the pedestal. A wonderful panoramic view is provided at the top of the statue.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 12 Baalbek - Chateau Ksara - Anjar
Today we venture to one of the best preserved and most impressive remains of Roman architecture in the Middle East – the Baalbek Temples. A definite highlight of any visit to Lebanon, Baalbek - called "Heliopolis" or "City of the Sun" by the Romans and Greeks - is home to a famous temple complex that is superbly well-preserved. This Phoenician city, where a triad of deities was worshipped, was known as Heliopolis during the Hellenistic period. It retained its religious function during Roman times, when the sanctuary of the Heliopolitan Jupiter attracted thousands of pilgrims. Baalbek, with its colossal structures, is one of the finest examples of Imperial Roman architecture. Still largely intact, the temple has outstanding artistic and historical value.

Overlooking the city of Baalbek, the temples occupy a central square, and the centuries-old columns of this UNESCO World Heritage Site contribute to the beauty and elegance of this site.

We next head to the Chateau Ksara wineries where we will learn more about the most important area of the Bekaa Valley. During our visit you will discover the history of Ksara, designed by monks in 1857. We will explore its Roman-era cellars, which stretch over several kilometers of tunnels dug into the rock and home to the estate's greatest vintages. Of course our visit would not be complete without an opportunity to taste some of the selected wines.

We will make a sop in Anjar to visit its historical Omayyad site which in ancient times was an important commercial site. Located in the Bekka Valley at the foot of the Eastern Range, Anjar was once a favored and distinguished site in Bekaa throughout the ancient and Middle Ages. Situated at a crossroads that became an important commercial center, the ruins here reveal a layout that is reminiscent of the palace cities of ancient times, and is a unique testimony to city planning under the Umayyad’s. Heavily influenced by Roman planning, the city was never completed.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 13 Tripoli - Cedars of the Gods - Kadisha
This morning we head to Tripoli, the largest city in northern Lebanon. Although the first settlement here dates back to the 14th century BC, the prosperity of Tripoli didn’t start until during the Phoenician period in the 9th Century BC. Unfortunately, few traces from this period remain. The earliest inhabitants here were Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. This is Lebanon's ‘northern capital’ and a city famed for its architectural heritage and is also blessed with handsome examples of Crusader and Ottoman era architecture. Tripoli is rich in diversity and is a beautiful city to explore.

We will visit to the amazing old traditional souk of Tripoli. We then continue to the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, also known as Qala'at Sanjil and Qala'at Tarablus in Arabic. Here we find both a citadel and fort on a hilltop. The huge 12th Century Crusader fortress was constructed in 1102 on Mount Pilgrim with the purpose of controlling land trade by blocking the city from the sea. As well as the Citadel of Tripoli we will visit the Tripoli Harbor.

We then enjoy the scenery and spectacular views from the winding road as we journey to the famous Arz el Rab Cedars Forest. Once we reach the heights you will enter the magical world of this thousand-year-old conifer, the emblem of Lebanon and symbol of the Lebanese flag. The Cedars of God, located in the Kadisha Valley of Bsharre, are one of the last vestiges of the extensive forests of the Lebanon cedar that thrived across Mount Lebanon in antiquity. The Kadisha Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its natural beauty makes it an exceptional destination.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 14 Sidon - Beiteddine Palace - Deir el-Qamar
Today we head south towards the ancient Phoenician city of Sidon (or Saida), the third largest city in Lebanon and one of the most famous names in ancient history. There is evidence that Sidon was inhabited as long ago as 4000 BC, and perhaps as early as Neolithic times (6000 - 4000 BC). The ancient city was built on a promontory facing an island, which sheltered its fleet from storms and served as a refuge during military incursions from the interior. In its wealth, commercial initiative, and religious significance, Sidon is said to have surpassed all other Phoenician city states. As one of the oldest Phoenician cities, Sidon was founded in the 3rd millennium BC and became prosperous in the 2nd. It is frequently mentioned in the works of the Greek poet Homer and in the Old Testament; and it was ruled in turn by Assyria, Babylonia, Persia, Alexander the Great, the Seleucids of Syria, the Ptolemaic dynasty of Egypt, and the Romans.

Here we will stroll through the winding alleyways surrounded by the warm atmosphere of this enchanting coastal city. The old souk has an aroma of beautifully scented herbs and spices, and we can sample some of the best sweet pastries which the city is famous for. We then take a step back in time with a visit to the Crusader Sea Castle, Khan el Franj (Inn of the Foreigners) as well as the Sidon Soap Museum and its beautifully restored stone vaulted 17th century old soap factory.

Sitting majestically on a hill surrounded by terraced gardens and orchards is the Beiteddine Palace -- a fantastic example of 19th century Lebanese architecture and one of the highlights of the Chouf Mountains. With its sumptuous interiors, detailed mosaics and stunning views of the hilly region, this architectural treasure is an idyllic place to admire the beauty of the surroundings and immerse yourself in Lebanon's history.

The village of Deir el-Qamar was the capital of Mount Lebanon and a stronghold of the Ottoman emirs. We will walk through the winding streets and past the red-roofed houses that embody the idyllic charm of this village, and admire this fine example of traditional Lebanese architecture.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 15 Mleeta Museum & Tyre
This morning we will visit the ‘Tourist Landmark of the Resistance’, also known as Museum for Resistance Tourism, is a war museum operated by Hezbollah at the village of Mleeta in southern Lebanon. The museum opened on May 25, 2010, marking the 10th anniversary of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000. The site was once an important base for Hezbollah fighters.

We wrap up our sightseeing with a visit to Tyre - the southernmost coastal city of Lebanon. Once famous across the known world for its purple dye made from murex sea snails (Tyrian purple), Tyre has a wonderful seaside location and extensive Roman ruins. According to legend, purple dye was invented in Tyre, and this great Phoenician city ruled the seas and founded prosperous colonies such as Cadiz and Carthage... but its historical role declined at the end of the Crusades. There are important archaeological remains, mainly from Roman times.

Here we will discover a great number of archaeological sites including the Necropolis, the Roman colonnades and of course the Hippodrome. Tyre’s Hippodrome is a sprawling spectacle of ancient Roman grandeur that once held up to 40,000 people.

The picturesque harbor is speckled with fishing boats, and located right next to the port is Tyre’s Christian Quarter with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses and flowers spilling out of balconies. The Christian Quarter is like Lebanon’s own version of a Greek island, without the crowds.

Overnight in Beirut.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 16 Departure
Departure from Beirut.

RHLAH S'IDAH!

Included Meal(s): Breakfast

 


 

Trip Info
Trip Info

Inclusions
Breakfast & dinner daily.

All transport (including local flight), accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary.

Gratuities for drivers, restaurant staff, porters, local guides.

Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book BOTH their air and extra hotel nights through us.

Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour.

Tour Leader gratuities.

Lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international (if applicable) and domestic air taxes, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'.

Airport transfers for Land Only customers.

Optional trip cancellation insurance.

Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, not included meals, & visas.

Seasonality and Weather
Unlike the overwhelming aridity of neighbouring Arab states in the region, Lebanon’s climate is as diverse as its terrain. Spring is, without doubt, the ideal time to visit Lebanon, as the country is carpeted with beautiful and varied flora, the stifling summer heat has yet to arrive, and the winter rains have disappeared. Temperatures in coastal areas range from 12C to 25C. At this time of year, we can enjoy sightseeing in Beirut and Byblos and explore the more mountainous regions.

Cyprus sits just off the southern coast of Turkey and north of Egypt, which gives the island one of the Mediterranean’s warmest climates. The Mediterranean Sea starts to warm up in April, which helps temperatures on the island get warmer but not yet too hot for comfort.

Transport and Travel Conditions
Ground transport provided by private air-conditioned motor coach.

The tour is not strenuous though it is busy; you must be steady on your feet and be able to endure full days of travel & sightseeing. We have numerous walking tours and visit several sites that are LARGE, with steps and uneven surfaces. You must be independent with your own luggage at airports (porters are available at hotels).

Our difficulty rating "Level 2" refers to the overall ambitious nature of the itinerary and the lots of moving around that we do (though the number of hotel check-ins/out is limited by the compact nature of these countries). Some mountain roads are also winding; those sensitive to motion may be affected.

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.

Activity Level: 2
These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.

To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.

Accommodation
Our accommodation choices are modern, well-appointed 3-4 star properties. Porters are generally available (see 'Inclusions').

A mandatory single supplement may apply to this tour if you have selected our share program and we ultimately cannot find you a share partner.

Please refer to the 'Map & Hotels' tab for more information.

Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, local drivers, local guides at various locations.

Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader

 


 

Map & Hotels
Map & Hotels

Regions visited: Middle East
Countries visited: Cyprus and Lebanon


*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.


The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.


Crowne Plaza Hotel Limassol
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Limassol
Country: Cyprus
Overlooking Akrotiri Bay, this modern hotel set along a beachfront promenade is 2 km from the Limassol Zoo and 4 km from the Castle of Limassol.
Casale Panayiotis
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Kalopanagiotis
Country: Cyprus
In a hillside complex within the Troodos Mountains, this elegant resort is 20 km from the 18th-century Trooditissa Monastery and 21 km from the iconic Mount Olympus.
The Classic Hotel Nicosia
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Nicosia
Country: Cyprus
This chic, modern hotel is 7 minutes on foot from the Cyprus Museum and 9 minutes' walk from the cafes of the Ottoman Büyük Han courtyard.
Sun Hall
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Larnaca
Country: Cyprus
Opposite Phinikoudes Beach along Larnaca Bay, this bright, modern hotel is 2 minutes' walk from Pierides Museum and 10 minutes on foot from 9th-century Church of Saint Lazarus.
Gefinor Rotna Hotel
Location: Beirut
Country: Lebanon
Set on an urban street, this modern hotel is 2 km from the 19th-century Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and 5 km from the National Museum of Beirut.

 


 

Gallery

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
01. What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?
Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 90-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.
02. Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?
Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.
03. How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?
The easiest way to make a reservation is via our website; during office hours, you are also more than welcome to contact us by telephone. A non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 90 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s). Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time. Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
04. What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?
Please review our cancellation policy page for details.
05. I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?
All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location. This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement. The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible. On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available. Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.
06. Do you have a shared accommodation program?
Yes! If you are single traveller and are willing to share, we will do our best to pair you with a same-gender roommate. On most of our tours, if we fail to pair you, we will absorb the single supplement fee and you will default to a single room at no extra charge. At some destinations, however, where single rooms are not significantly discounted, or not at all, we may apply a "mandatory" single in the event that we cannot find you a share partner. This is usually 50% of the usual supplement, but can be as much as 100%. If applicable, this proviso will be noted on each tour page on this website, on your invoice, and in our tour date/price book (available for download under "Resources").

 

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Countries Visited: 2

Cyprus; Lebanon.
Activity Level: 2

These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.

To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.
Tour Style: Cultural

These three- and four-star hotel-based, "soft adventure" trips concentrate on the culture, history, and natural attributes of our destination. Though there are no strenuous activities built into these tours, you need to be prepared for some full days with some early starts, plenty of walking on uneven surfaces through villages, cities and archaeological sites, and not a lot of "down time." Independence, reasonable fitness, and an ability to be steady on one's feet are critical in order for you to get the most out of these programs.

To learn more about the Tour Styles, please visit our tour styles page.
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