Lebanon offers an array of scenic and historical sights. In the capital, Beirut, we found ourselves returning again and again to the Corniche, a wide shoreline promenade that's representative of Lebanon—full of charm and contradictions. It's a good spot to watch the spectacle of Beirutis of all faiths, factions and ages strolling, jogging and skating by. There and elsewhere in the city, you'll realize that east and west not only meet, they dance.
The country isn't large, and day trips to historic coastal towns and lovely mountain villages are easily made from Beirut. In Jbail (Byblos) you can walk among the remains of several civilizations, and in Bcharre you can hike in a deep gorge or relax in a grove of graceful cedars. When it comes to skiing, you have your choice of water or snow, depending on the season.
