Faraya Mzaar Ski Resort: Lebanon's Mountain Slopes

1. Visitor Fee

• Visitor Fee: Access to the slopes requires purchasing a ski pass. The price for a day pass varies depending on the season and day of the week, typically ranging from 70,000 to 120,000 Lebanese Pounds (approximately $50 to $80 USD). Discounts are often available for students, children, and multi-day passes.

2. Transportation

• By Road: Faraya Mzaar Ski Resort is located about 46 kilometers northeast of Beirut. The drive from Beirut takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route involves taking the Beirut-Damascus Highway (M1) to Zouk Mosbeh, followed by a scenic mountain drive through Faraya to reach the resort.
• Public Transport: Public buses run from Beirut to Faraya, but they are less frequent, especially in winter. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer. Many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from the resort.
• Within Faraya: Once at the resort, most activities and facilities are within walking distance. However, the area is spread out, so having a car or using local shuttles can be convenient.

3. Things to Do

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Faraya Mzaar is Lebanon’s largest and most popular ski resort, offering a wide range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The resort has over 80 kilometers of ski runs and 18 chairlifts.
• Snowshoeing and Hiking: For those who prefer a slower pace, snowshoeing and winter hiking are great ways to explore the stunning mountain landscapes surrounding the resort.
• Après-Ski: The resort village offers a lively après-ski scene with bars, restaurants, and cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy local and international cuisine after a day on the slopes.
• Spa and Wellness: Several hotels and chalets in the area offer spa services, including massages, hot tubs, and saunas, perfect for unwinding after a day in the snow.
• Night Skiing: Faraya Mzaar also offers night skiing on selected slopes, providing a unique and thrilling experience under the stars.

4. Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• Variety of Slopes: Faraya Mzaar caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, offering everything from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs. The resort’s expansive terrain means there’s something for everyone.
• Stunning Scenery: Located in the Mount Lebanon range, the resort offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and, on clear days, the Mediterranean Sea in the distance.
• Proximity to Beirut: The resort’s location just a couple of hours from Beirut makes it a convenient winter getaway for both locals and tourists.
• Lively Atmosphere: The après-ski scene at Faraya Mzaar is vibrant, with plenty of options for dining, drinking, and socializing, creating a festive atmosphere.
• Modern Facilities: The resort is well-equipped with modern lifts, rental shops, and ski schools, making it easy and enjoyable for visitors to get on the slopes.

5. How Old is This Place?

• Age of Faraya Mzaar Ski Resort: The resort was established in the late 1950s and has since grown to become the largest ski resort in Lebanon and the Middle East. Over the decades, it has expanded its facilities and services to accommodate a growing number of visitors.

6. List of Activities

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Explore the resort’s extensive network of slopes, catering to all skill levels.
• Snowshoeing: Take a guided or self-guided snowshoeing tour through the pristine mountain trails.
• Night Skiing: Enjoy the thrill of skiing under the lights on select slopes.
• Après-Ski: Unwind with food, drinks, and live entertainment at one of the resort’s bars or restaurants.
• Spa and Wellness: Relax and rejuvenate with spa treatments available at various hotels and wellness centers.
• Snowmobiling: For an adrenaline rush, try snowmobiling through the resort’s designated trails.

7. Additional Nearby Attractions

• Fakra Ruins: Located near the resort, the ancient Fakra ruins offer a glimpse into Lebanon’s rich history with its Roman temples and structures set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
• Faraya Village: A charming mountain village with traditional Lebanese architecture, offering local cuisine, handicrafts, and a glimpse into rural mountain life.
• Cedars of God: A bit further afield, you can visit the famous Cedars of God, an ancient cedar forest that is one of Lebanon’s most treasured natural sites.
• Byblos (Jbeil): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient city is located about an hour’s drive from the resort and offers a rich historical experience with its ruins, old souks, and beautiful harbor.

Faraya Mzaar Ski Resort is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts and those looking to experience the beauty and excitement of Lebanon’s mountains. Its combination of diverse activities, stunning scenery, and lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit during the winter season.