Drive from Beirut into the Chouf’s folded hills for a day that pairs ornate 19th-century palaces and a multi-faith mountain village with the quiet grandeur of the Barouk cedar groves. This private full-day tour packs culture, geology and accessible hiking into eight curated hours.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Beirut behind as the coastal roar softens and the road climbs into the Chouf’s folded hills. Stone houses appear like punctuation marks against green slopes, the air sharpening with cedar resin and thyme. The day moves at a measured pace—palace courtyards, a village square, then the hush of ancient cedars where trunks loom and the scent of sap seems to pull you forward.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity; suitable for most fitness levels with short walks and brief elevation changes
Wildlife
History
The palace in Beiteddine was built by Emir Bashir Chehab II (1788–1818) and later served as a presidential summer residence; Deir el Qamar elected Lebanon’s first municipal council in 1864.
Conservation
Al Shouf Cedar Reserve protects remaining native cedars and supports reforestation and local grazing management—stay on trails and avoid disturbing seedlings.
Reserve your spot on the Private Full-Day Tour to Beiteddine, Deir El Qamar and Barouk Cedars from Beirut today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Leave Beirut in the morning to avoid traffic and get cooler light for photography at Beiteddine and the cedars.
Wear sturdy shoes
Paved palace grounds and uneven dirt trails in the cedar reserve both require solid walking shoes with grip.
Bring local currency
Small vendors and some site kiosks may accept only Lebanese lira or cash—carry small bills for souvenirs and snacks.
Respect religious sites
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and churches in Deir el Qamar; follow signage and photography rules.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides traction and support across palace courtyards and uneven cedar-trail surfaces.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during outdoor stops—water refill options are limited inside the reserve.
summer
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Protects against strong sun on exposed hilltops and palace terraces.
summer
Light insulating layer
Mountain mornings and evenings can be cool—bring a fleece or windbreaker for comfort.
fall