THE FACTS ABOUT BEIRUT

Lebanon

THE RESORT After a generation lost to war, Lebanon is trying to reclaim its sobriquet as 'the Switzerland of the Middle East'. Mountains rise more than 3,000 metres to give halcyon views of the Mediterranean Sea. The skiing season is similar in length to that of the Alps THE SKIING Lebanon's six ski resorts are all within 90 minutes' drive of Beirut. The Cedars is the highest, at more than 2,000 metres; Faraya-Mzaar is the largest and most sophisticated, with 16 lifts. On a good day you can ski off-piste from the resort of Faqra THE NON-SKIING A 25-year redevelopment at its heart is turning vibrant but war-torn Beirut into a modern city. The Acropolis of Baalbek, 85km away in the Beqaa Valley, is the largest and best-preserved example of Roman architecture in the world, with the six remaining pillars of Jupiter's Temple standing a mighty 22 metres high THE KNOWLEDGE Driving is the best way to get around, but beware of traffic jams in and around Beirut. Stay in the city, or at L'Auberge de Faqra (00 961 9 710291) in the resort of the same name. Recommended tour operator (bespoke packages only): Momentum Ski (020 7371 9111). For more information go to www.skileb.com