Mount Lebanon is a climb of 28.9 kilometers (hors catégorie). Mount Lebanon tops out at 2,114 m above sea level. It is located in بيت كناتي, محافظة الشمال, لبنان. The average gradient is 7.0% with a maximum of 21.2%. The climb has 2018 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This 28.9 km climb has a three-act profile. The first section (KM 0-14) is fairly moderate, with gradients of 3% to 7%, apart from a short flat at KM 3. Difficulty ramps up noticeably in the middle section (KM 14-23), which peaks with four brutal kilometres (KM 17-21, with gradients of 13% and 14%). The final section (KM 23-end) stays tough (5%-8%) before a brief breather at the top.
Pacing advice:
1. Manage your pace over the first half: The opening part is deceptive. Riding at a steady tempo (below your threshold) will get you to the critical section with something left in the tank.
2. Prepare for the decisive kilometres (17-21): These 4 km averaging over 11% are the key to the climb. Drop into an easier gear as you approach KM 16 to keep your cadence up and avoid blowing up.
3. Use the gentler sections to recover: KM 10-14 (3%-4%) and KM 27 (2%) are your chance to ease off the pressure a little, drink and eat without losing time.
For the riders who've climbed it, the ascent of Mount Lebanon is one that sticks with you. Many describe breathtaking scenery, with its preserved cedar forests, crisp mountain air and natural beauty they call "ultimate." The place feels almost magical, able to "touch the soul" and giving the impression of finding a home that is both new and old at once.
The atmosphere is unique, deeply tied to Lebanese culture. Some riders even recommend loading up a Fairouz playlist and bringing manaeesh for the picnic for total immersion. The welcome is described as warm, adding to the authentic feel of the ride.
That said, the reports don't shy away from the downsides. One comment explicitly mentions litter ("zbale"), a reminder that cleanliness can sometimes be an issue at the site. It's a realistic note that tempers the idyllic picture and points to the challenges the area can face.
Still, the overall feeling that comes through is a huge love for the place. Riders use words like "epic," "fantastic" or "magnificent" to sum up their adventure, concluding that the beauty and majesty of the mountain are simply captivating.
28.9 km • 2018 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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