The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

 

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Zahle is a city in Lebanon, located in the Bekaa Valley, about 48 kilometres east of Beirut. It is the capital of the Beqaa Governorate and is known for its historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. Zahle, often referred to as the “Bride of the Beqaa” due to its picturesque location and charming atmosphere, is situated along the banks of the Berdawni River, surrounded by vineyards and mountains, making it a popular destination for wine lovers. Here are some notable features and attractions of Zahle:

Vineyards and Wineries

Zahle is renowned for its wine production. The region is home to numerous vineyards and wineries where visitors can learn about the winemaking process, taste local wines, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the vineyards.

Chateau Ksara:

Just outside Zahle, the Caves of Ksara are a famous attraction. These ancient caves were used as wine cellars by the Romans and are now open to visitors for guided tours. Chateau Ksara is one of Lebanon’s oldest and most renowned wineries, with a rich history dating back to 1857 and offering guided tours of its cellars, vineyards, and production facilities. Visitors can learn about the winemaking process and taste a variety of wines produced by Chateau Ksara, or they can purchase their wine at prices as low as $4. 

Berdawni River: 

The Berdawni River flows through Zahle, adding to the city’s charm. The riverbanks are a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the pleasant ambience. Casino Arabi, built on either side of the river, is a pedestrian-only area that has some of the best ice cream spots in Zahle.

Booza Al Berdawni (Khalaf and Abo Soliman) is always busy with locals and tourists who enjoy the night air along the river with an ice cream in hand. Their prices go as low as $1.5 for three different flavours of ice cream goodness!

Cultural and Culinary Scene

Zahle boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with various festivals, events, and traditional performances taking place throughout the year. The city is also known for its diverse culinary offerings, with restaurants serving Lebanese and international cuisines.

You cannot miss out on a little Italian place called Lilla Italy Pizzeria which offers a variety of pizzas and pasta that will have you coming back for more. The cosy atmosphere and excellent service radiate from this small-town pizzeria.

If you’re looking for something different, on the outskirts of Zahle lies La Tour restaurant, which serves international and Lebanese cuisine. We recommend their crab salad; it’s to die for!

For those who like a sweet kick at the end of their meals, Sea Sweet is a chain that specialises in Lebanese knafeh. A dessert with a layer of sweet cheese underneath and soaked in a sugar syrup called attar. You can even have a piece of knafeh in their sweet bread freshly baked in-store.    

Zahle is a charming destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Its location in the Beqaa Valley makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas, including the ancient ruins of Baalbek and the stunning landscapes of the Beqaa region.