A private full-day drive from Beirut through Beiteddine’s palaces, the storied lanes of Deir el Qamar and the ancient Chouf cedars. Expect short walks, historic sites and high-mountain cedar groves with conservation-focused stops.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Beirut’s traffic and the Mediterranean’s hum behind as the road climbs into the Mount Lebanon foothills; stone houses and terraced orchards slide past the window while the air cools and the cedars ahead stand like slow-breathing elders. The first stop, Beiteddine Palace, opens onto courtyards and mosaic halls where Ottoman, Druze and Levantine histories cross paths in carved wood and painted tiles.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly seated travel with brief on-foot exploration at each stop
Wildlife
History
Beiteddine Palace was built by Emir Bashir Chehab II between the late 18th and early 19th centuries; Deir el Qamar was an early municipal center and a multicultural village under Ottoman rule.
Conservation
The Shouf Cedar Reserve leads reforestation and sustainable tourism programs; visitors are asked to stay on trails, avoid collecting wood, and respect wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Private Journey from Beirut to Beiteddine, Deir el Qamar & Cedars today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy shoes
Streets in Deir el Qamar and palace courtyards are uneven stone; closed-toe shoes with traction help during short walks.
Bring water and snacks
The itinerary is a full day with limited food options in small villages—carry at least 1–1.5 liters per person.
Keep local currency
Some small craft shops and entrance kiosks accept cash only, so have Lebanese pounds for incidentals.
Dress respectfully at religious sites
Pack a lightweight scarf or long shirt for quick coverage when visiting mosques or churches.
Comfortable walking shoes
Good traction for cobbled lanes, palace courtyards, and short cedar-trail sections.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during the full-day tour, especially in summer.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Open exposures around the palace and village offer little shade in the heat.
summer
Light insulating layer
Higher elevations at the cedars can be chilly—bring a windproof layer off-season.
winter