Jeita Grotto — UNESCO tentative site · New 7 Wonders finalist Two cave systems, two completely different experiences. The upper cave on foot — an elevated walkway through stalactites and stalagmites up to 8 metres tall, carved over millions of years into formations of extraordinary scale. The lower cave by silent electric boat — gliding along an underground river through chambers of absolute stillness. One of the most spectacular natural experiences in the Middle East, 30 minutes from Beirut. From here the day pivots east — over the Lebanese mountains to the Bekaa Valley and a completely different kind of ancient world.

Stone of the Pregnant Woman — the quarry that sets the scale Before the temples — the Stone of the Pregnant Woman in the ancient Roman quarry. A single limestone block, 21 metres long, weighing an estimated 1,000 tonnes, cut 2,000 years ago and never moved. Your driver explains the engineering logic — and why this unfinished block is the best possible preparation for the scale of the temple complex ahead.

Baalbek Temple Complex — specialist local guide The greatest Roman temple complex on earth — with a specialist local Baalbek guide whose knowledge of these structures goes well beyond what visiting guides can offer. The Temple of Jupiter on Trilithon stones each weighing over 800 tonnes — the largest dressed stones in human history. The Temple of Bacchus, larger than the Parthenon and almost entirely intact — the best-preserved Roman temple in the world. The Temple of Venus completing a complex that took three centuries to build. Your local guide covers the architectural, religious, and historical significance of Baalbek in the depth this extraordinary site deserves.

Lunch in Baalbek — included Lebanese mezze and grilled meats at a local Baalbek restaurant — hearty Bekaa Valley cooking in a town that has been feeding travellers for two thousand years. Fully included in the tour price — nothing extra to pay.

Chateau Ksara — Roman caves, Lebanese wine, founded 1857 End the day underground again — but in a completely different way. Lebanon's oldest winery, founded by Jesuit monks in 1857, built above 2 kilometres of Roman cave cellars where wine ages at a naturally constant temperature year-round. The cave tour connects directly back to the Roman world at Baalbek — same civilisation, same valley, different legacy. Then a tasting of Ksara's iconic Cabernet-Syrah blends, crisp Blanc de Blancs, and celebrated Sunset Rosé. A day that began in natural limestone caves closes in Roman ones — with wine.