[Get to know MEDUSA's territories] The magical cave Qadisha Grotto in Lebanon

Photo Credits: Joe Nohra

This article forms part of a series of publications under MEDUSA project to promote less-known natural and cultural touristic assets in our partner territories Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, Puglia (Italy) and Catalonia (Spain). Enjoy reading and hope to welcome you soon at one of the wonderful places you will get to know here.

Discovered in 1903, the 10-million-year-old Qadicha Grotto, tucked in the mountain overlooking the Qadicha Valley, is the oldest cave in Lebanon to have been turned into a cave for tourists. This striking cave formed as a result of karst erosion –a slow wearing down of its surfaces by rainwater. The result in this cave is a magical, intimate landscape of limestone stalactites and stalagmites that shine with different colours and soothes visitors with the sounds of its water flows.

It is a tourist destination for local and international tourists that needs to be included in travel itineraries or road trips. Particularly now that it has been opened to the public with new and vital projects completed to preserve this gem. Inside and outside of the cave, in consultation and oversight of an architect and speleologist, these projects were undertaken to ensure the environmental integrity and the safety of its visitors is maintained long-term. This must-visit destination just re-opened late summer of 2020 and attracted visitors, who came to enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery from the path, bask in the sun and rest on the benches, and tour the surreal interior of this ancient natural wonder.

Beyond its beauty, the cave still bears marks of Lebanon’s history through graffiti that was used during the Civil War – making it a destination that uniquely combines diverse wonders and complexities that are contained across our tiny country. Drive (or, if you’re feeling particularly energetic, walk!) seven kilometers from Bcharré, off of the main road to the Cedars. Look for the L’Aignlon Hotel, across from which there is a footpath. From there it is a 1.5 km walk to the Grotto.