Summer (June-September) in Lebanon is made for sun worshiping, beaches, mountain escapes, and cultural festivals. The clear skies and warm temperatures along the coast, 20-32°C (68-90°F), lure Lebanese and tourists alike to the waters of the Mediterranean. The atmosphere here is a mixture of trendy “see and be seen” and utter relaxation.
As usual, Lebanon offers tourists more than a traditional “sun and fun” vacation. When not soaking up the sun, visitors can soak up some history at a plethora of archaeological sites. For a change of pace, head to the mountains. Plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, rafting, and mountain biking, await in the cooler mountain climes, 6-22°C (45-70°F).
For arts enthusiasts, summer is when Lebanon hosts a large number of festivals, featuring both local and international performers. The largest of these festivals are held at historic and archaeological sites, serving as breathtaking backdrops for performances. For example, the Baalbek Festival is hosted on the site of spectacular Roman temples; the Beiteddine Festival is held at a 200 year-old palace in the mountains of the Chouf; and the Byblos Festival takes place in one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
The international festivals attract premier talent in a variety of performance areas, ranging from opera or jazz to renowned dance companies and famous comedians. For festivals on a smaller scale with more of a local flavor, many villages throughout the country host summer fairs or festivals. |