It was more like a day-dream, what I had in mind, the prefect image of how I want my birthday to be. I searched and searched for a local getaway since I am a firm believer of being a tourist in your own country and Lebanon does not lack the options!
I had many places in mind, perfectly I wanted this get away with ma Chacha and Sunshiny, too bad none of them was able to make it. I also would have preferred some decent springy weather instead of the pouring rain. But guess what, it did not have to be perfect, and I planned to make the best out of it.
My researches led me to Zenotel, and let me tell you I could not be happier of my choice. It was EXACTLY what I had in mind; nestled in the hills of Bhersaf, Zenotel is the perfect escape of the hustle of the city and its noise. You can reach it via Matn high way or from Antelias through Bekfaya. A 30 minutes drive from Beirut that will take you on an unforgettable journey.
Check this article about the Zen philosophy that was reflected in all the areas of the hotel.
The hotel consists of four floors each representing one element: earth, water, sun and wind. I was on the “sun” floor, coincidence?!
The lobby is warm and inviting. A “living room” area that hosts the TV, a bar area, and a regular waiting area. All with eye comforting colors.
The “Zen” attitude is everywhere, and is so relaxing. From the moment you enter, the receptionist was very helpful upon check in and the second day another one was as sweet during the checkout.
I booked my single room and was sweetly upgraded, as my birthday treat, to the double room with extra king size bed and a balcony overlooking the city .
A calm night of deep sleep on an extra comfortable bed.
To wake up the second day, Jour J! on the humming of the birds and the soft rays of light (the sun was too mean to show up and was overtaken by the pouring rain!)
The engine needed more fuel to launch the system! Off to the breakfast. In the earth restaurant in the ground floor. I have to say that the owners mastered it in all the details: the color therapy has a big effect on the mood. Walking in the dining area make you feel all fresh and energized. Wide smiles welcomed me and I was offered coffee the time they started serving me fruits, jams and bread while they were baking fresh pastries!
There was a group of persons having their coffee break, the hotel hosts seminars and retreats too. They were entertaining and funny adding some twist to my morning.
Though I would have loved to spend more time in such an enchanting place, it was time for me to hit the road back to Beirut where the rest of the Birthday was taking place!
I recommend you to treat yourself from time to time, disconnect to reconnect with yourself and embrace this life, we are living a miracle…
“People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don’t even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child — our own two eyes. All is a miracle.” Thích Nhat Hanh
Style, Travel and Lifestyle blogger 