Dotted with picturesque towns and villages, Chouf is a historic region known for crochet and carpet weaving. It encompasses the Christian town of Damour and the rugged landscapes of Jabal Barouk, together with one of the largest cedar forests in Lebanon.
Things to do in Chouf
One of Lebanon’s prettiest villages is sleepy Deir al-Qamar, which was built around active springs during the Middle Ages. It boasts beautifully-preserved examples of 17th and 18th-century provincial architecture, with religious houses of four different faiths set around its central square.
A short drive east of Deir al-Qamar gets you to Moussa Palace, an eclectic structure lovingly built by its owner over 60 years. It features clay animated figures depicting daily scenes from 19th-century Lebanese village life, as well as a life-size recreation of the “Last Supper”.
Are you inspired by architecture? Nearby Beiteddine is a small village home to the 18th-century palace complex of Emir Bashir. It’s considered one of the greatest examples of Lebanese architecture, fusing traditional Arab and Italian baroque influences in its terraced gardens and courtyards.
If you love the outdoors you must visit Chouf, home to one of the last-remaining swathes of cedar forest in Lebanon around Mount Barouk and the Chouf Cedar Reserve. Many of the trees are believed to date back 2,000 years, and the forest provides a picturesque setting for hiking and bird watching, with the opportunity to glimpse wolves, gazelles and wild boar that pass through.
Getting around Chouf
Deir al-Qamar is around one hour’s drive from Beirut and connected by regular mini bus services. There are public transport options throughout the Chouf district, but it’s more convenient to hire your own vehicle.