Deir El Qamar is perhaps the most famous village in the Shouf region. Having played an important historical role as the seat of the Emirs, it’s an ideal place to spend time in nature and see Lebanon’s past firsthand.
Getting There
Follow the southern coastal highway towards Saida. Just before Damour, exit the highway towards Deir El Qamar and follow the signs.
What to Do
Main Square
With red-tiled roofs, winding streets and traditional stone houses, the village of Deir El Qamar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) epitomizes idyllic mountain charm. It also highlights the religious diversity in Lebanon, with a mosque, a church and a synagogue all taking residence in its main square. Enjoy a stroll around the village, starting in the historic main square, where jousting tournaments took place during the Crusades. End your visit by wandering through the small markets, where you can find all sorts of trinkets and souvenirs.
Photo – Nidal Majdalani
Shouf Cedar Reserve
The Shouf Cedar Reserve holds over 20 percent of the country’s cedar trees, some of which date back 2,000 years. Hike in the forest or rent a mountain bike from the Shouf Biosphere Reserve at the entrance and cycle along the trail.
Visit shoufcedar.org.
Marie Baz Wax Museum
Located in a 16th-century palace built by the Emir Fakhreddine, this museum brings together wax figurines depicting some of the most well-known people of local, regional and international history.
Contact +961 5 511 666.
Where to Eat
Located in a sunny courtyard facing Deir El Qamar’s main square, Al-Midane (+961 3 763 768) specializes in Lebanese mezze and local food. Decorated in a traditional style, the restaurant lends itself perfectly to an extended lunch.
Where to Sleep
Surrounded by vegetable gardens and colorful terraces, Beit El Qamar (+961 3 661 411, BEIT EL QAMAR Tripadvisor ) is an adorable hotel that will make you feel right at home in the Shouf. Beit El Qamar’s locally sourced breakfast overlooking the Shouf mountains is worth a visit alone.
Deir el Oumara
Nestled in the heart of the Shouf Mountains, Deir Al Oumara, originally a residence for Lebanese Emirs, is a historic gem that beautifully captures the elegance of Ottoman architecture. Featuring a charming central courtyard and 19 individually styled rooms, this boutique hotel offers a serene retreat for guests seeking both luxury and authenticity. Each room at Deir Al Oumara is named in honor of some of the most influential figures in the region’s history, reflecting their legacy and importance. This personalized touch allows guests to connect with the rich heritage of Lebanon while experiencing the charm and elegance of the hotel’s unique design.” (+961 5 511 557, Deir al Oumara | Facebook)
Spread over juxtaposed terraces overlooking the green mountains of Shouf, BEYT El Jabal (+961 71 160 767, Beyt el Jabal | Facebook ) consists of eight rooms and a pretty garden.
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