Amidst the majestic, snow-draped cedar trees on Lebanon’s high peaks, where temperatures plunge to -7°C, families, young men and women, students, and tourists from near and far gather from early morning, carrying their skis and boundless enthusiasm, all in search of an unforgettable winter day immersed in nature.

Over the years, generations have grown up embracing the snow, inheriting the craft and turning the season into a source of livelihood, identity, and belonging. These are the people of Bsharri and the mountain communities, who know how to build a living economy from nature’s bounty. They greet visitors with a special traditional welcome unique to the people of Bcharre, offering heartfelt hospitality that makes newcomers feel at home amid generous landscapes and the warmth of their homeland.

The winter season at Cedars Station kicked off on a promising note, marking a strong start for tourism activities. Cedars ski station manager Cyril Kayrouz told Annahar: “The season began well. Temperatures are favorable, the weather is beautiful, tourism is active, and there’s evident enthusiasm and a fresh energy in all snow-related activities.”

He points out that the influx isn’t limited to Lebanese visitors alone: “What’s remarkable this season is the European presence. Alongside tourists from Arab countries, we are seeing a significant number from France, Austria, and Italy. Even though they have snow in their own countries, they are captivated by the natural scenery, the range of activities, and especially the warm Lebanese hospitality—particularly in Bcharre, where locals take pride in welcoming guests and meeting new faces.”

In this context, Bcharre Mayor Joe Keyrouz told Annahar: “The Cedars are a cornerstone of sustainable tourism in the area, benefiting not only the businesses directly at the station but also anyone with a tourism or economic stake—from the city of Bsharri to the surrounding areas of the Cedars.”

He estimates that the winter season generates between one-third and one-half of the area’s total annual tourism revenue, noting the varied visitor patterns—some come to ski, others for weekend stays, and many simply to enjoy the Cedar forest without hitting the slopes.

He emphasized that “no successful skiing season can take place without an integrated organizational, security, and health framework.”

Thus, Cedars Station is more than a fleeting winter getaway—it is a vibrant space where economy meets heritage, tourism blends with identity, and sports intertwine with the culture of hospitality. Here, the skiing season is not just a few weeks; it shapes a full life cycle, revitalizing the region, bringing its people together, and welcoming visitors seeking a warm, unique experience despite the cold. Every winter, Bcharre proves that snow, nurtured by the passion of its people and love for the land, is far more than temporary whiteness—it is a source of life, continuity, and community.