Visitors to Lebanon often marvel at how the sea lies just an hour away from the mountains and their snowy peaks. This unique charm is perfectly captured by the renowned Zaarour Resort, nestled in the Metn region on the slopes of Mount Sannine. Just 35 kilometers from the capital, it offers a world of crisp mountain air and endless stretches of white snow, typically from early January through the end of March.

At the entrance of Zaarour, visitors are welcomed by a breathtaking panorama: forests of pine, cedar, and hawthorn reaching toward the sky, a gentle mist drifting among the branches, and a crisp chill that lingers even under the midday sun—nature’s way of greeting every passerby. This enchanting scene unfolds long before you reach the ski slopes and resort, which over the years has earned its place as one of the region’s most beloved winter destinations, not just in Lebanon but across the Middle East.

A few kilometers before reaching the slopes, a vast artificial lake comes into view, stretching over 15,000 square meters. Its waters contrast beautifully with the pristine white of winter snow and add a refreshing touch of humidity in the summer, making it a striking feature in every season.

During its early opening days, Annahar visited the ski slopes and activity areas and found that attendance had already exceeded expectations. Although the snow had only begun to settle a few days earlier, families and young people alike were eager to enjoy seasonal sports, whether as enthusiastic amateurs or budding athletes.

“The Lebanese saying goes, ‘The January snow never fails,’” begins Fadi Antoun, ski instructor and longtime head of the resort’s ski school, as he welcomes us. In his interview with Annahar, he adds, “This year, the season started early and strong, which makes us very happy—especially after last year’s weak season, which didn’t officially begin until February.”

A brief tour of the resort and its slopes makes it clear that the activities go far beyond traditional skiing; in recent years, the resort has introduced unique experiences found nowhere else.

In this context, Carole Al Murr, Chairperson of "Zaarour Club," told Annahar about the resort’s offerings: “There are four aerial lifts, including a slow-speed lift designed for beginners, as well as Magic Carpets—a ground conveyor that helps newcomers learn quickly and safely. We also offer Tubing, a course for sliding on inflatable rubber tires, all of which are unique features not found at other slopes.”

According to Al Murr, “The resort can accommodate up to 2,000 skiers a day. What sets Zaarour apart—besides being the closest resort to Beirut—is the effortless experience: you can park just a few meters from the slopes and take a lift to the skiing area in minutes. This convenience encourages many Lebanese to enjoy skiing even on weekdays, and we often see visitors ski and return to work in Beirut on the same day.”

With its wide range of activities and convenient access, Zaarour once again proves itself as one of the premier winter tourist destinations. The steady influx of visitors—residents, expatriates, and foreign tourists alike—underscores its appeal to both amateurs and professionals, reaffirming that Lebanon continues to offer experiences that are truly remarkable and exceptional.