Sometimes you visit a new destination and have no idea what to expect. Beirut was one of those places for me. The capital city of Lebanon certainly had a tumultuous past. “But what’s it like now” ? I wondered. Is It safe? And where should I stay? Accommodation standards vary from city to city across the world, sometimes even in the same country. After living in Dubai for years, I was spoiled for choice. One of the hotels I stayed at in Beirut defied my expectations. Le Gray turned out to be one of the best hotels in Beirut. It’s also one of the best urban hotels I’ve stayed at in the Middle East.
Aside from topping the list of best hotels in Beirut, Le Gray is conveniently located steps away from major attractions. The Beirut Souks, Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, St. Georges Church and Downtown are literally within a five minute walk.
Our terrace suite was so incredible that we felt little disappointment when it poured rain one afternoon during our visit. My husband and I retreated to Le Gray with umbrellas in hand and tore open the curtains of the stylish and sophisticated decorated seating area (featured above). After popping the cork of the Lebanese wine in the minibar, we watched pedestrians scurry in and out of the Chanel store across the street from the floor to ceiling windows. We marveled at the panoramic views of Downtown Beirut while munching on the macaroons and chocolates left to us as welcome treats.
One of the views from the Terrace Suite at Le Gray
Le Gray is One of the Best Hotels in Beirut
Apart from our plush terrace suite, Le Gray manages to surpass service levels in several areas. Everything from the check in experience to the service in the revered restaurants are superb. The bellboys who hail taxis for you are courteous. The front desk made our breakfasts complimentary after they learned our taxi overcharged us from the airport. Separate story on that later. Even the elderly man who pressed my husband’s shirts was hospitable. At no point did we ever have a quibble. To me, service is what makes or breaks a hotel. Service made Le Gray.
Breakfast
Once I tasted the Eggs Florentine at Indigo, my only regret was not staying at Le Gray longer. Whatever you do, make sure to dine at Indigo. The rooftop restaurant is well known for its cuisine and unobstructed views of Downtown Beirut, the sea and mountains. The breakfast spread is top notch. Breads, pastries and other cold items call out to you while you finish ordering freshly made hot dishes from the menu. The open layout and modern yet warm interiors of the restaurant are truly inviting.
Indigo at Le Gray
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- Breakfast at Indigo
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- The best Eggs Florentine I’ve ever had, not an exaggeration
And Don’t Forget
Beirut is famous for its nightlife. Some venues can be a little too concerned with how you look and what you’re wearing. But Bar ThreeSixty at Le Gray is very much a snob free zone. Come here on a Thursday evening for some great cocktails and Jazz with their resident in house performer. Try the cucumber martini, its delicious.
Jazz Night at Bar Three Sixty at Le Gray
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I hope you enjoyed my post about one of the best hotels in Beirut. Feel free to leave a comment in the section below. Stay tuned for travel tips and what to do in Beirut.
This post was not sponsored.
