Jeita Grotto, Jounieh

Nestled within the picturesque mountains of Lebanon lies the Jeita Grotto, an extraordinary system of two separate, but interconnected, limestone caves. Located in the city of Jounieh, just 18 kilometers north of the capital Beirut, these caverns present a hidden underground world that has been a source of marvel and fascination for visitors.

The Jeita Grotto comprises an upper gallery, known for its enormous chambers that stretch over a distance of nearly 2,130 meters, and a lower gallery, which can be explored by boat along a subterranean lake that spans 620 meters. The cave system extends for a total confirmed length of over 9 kilometers, though much of it remains unexplored and retains its mysterious allure.

Discovered in 1836 by Reverend William Thomson, these caves were not accessible to the public until the 1950s. Since then, they have been equipped with walking paths, lighting, and other amenities that make them a prime tourist attraction, without compromising their natural beauty. The Jeita Grotto is renowned for its collection of stalactites and stalagmites, geological formations that have been shaped over millions of years by the relentless work of water and time.

The upper gallery impresses visitors with its high ceilings and wide spaces, some of which reach up to 120 meters in height. It is accessible via a cable car that offers a stunning view of the surrounding area. The lower gallery, on the other hand, provides a unique experience as guests glide across the calm waters of the cave's river, enveloped by the silence and grandeur of the subterranean landscape.

Jeita Grotto has been a finalist for the New 7 Wonders of Nature and is often referred to as the "Pearl of Nature" in Lebanon. It plays a crucial role in the country's hydrogeology, as the river that flows through the lower cave supplies fresh water to more than a million Lebanese inhabitants.

The site is open to the public throughout the year, though the lower section may close during winter due to high water levels. Photography inside the grotto is prohibited to preserve the natural ambiance and to protect the formations from the effects of flash lighting.