Al Shouf Cedar Reserve, Deir el Qamar & Beiteddine Palace

Start your day by driving south of Beirut to the Chouf area. Visit the Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve- Barouk Forest, the largest of Lebanon nature reserves. The reserve is home to three magnificent cedar forests, some of which are estimated to be 2,000 years old. You can go for a short hike in the reserve, or simply enjoy the scenery.

After your hike, return to Beiteddine Palace complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace was built in the early 19th century and is one of the best examples of Lebanese architecture. Next, visit Deir el Qamar, a charming village known for its stone houses and historical landmarks. The village was once the residence of the governors of Lebanon and is home to a number of mosques, palaces, and administrative buildings.

This is a great day trip from Beirut that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Lebanon. The Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve is a beautiful place to see the country’s iconic cedar trees, and Beiteddine Palace and Deir el Qamar are both fascinating historical sites.