Day Trips in Beirut

Several exciting daytrips can be made from Beirut.

Beirut Day Trips present many options, ranging from visiting places of historical interest to getting acquainted with the native wildlife. Some of the more popular day-trip ideas are listed below:

Beiteddine Palace Complex

This is Lebanon's most exotic palace and was built in the early part of the 19th century. The architecture style is distinctly Persian and it took nearly 30 years to complete the palace complex. Many visitors prefer to click pictures from a distance to get a more comprehensive view of the sprawling complex. There are some spots in the village of Deir El Qamar (the Monastery) that is along the main road leading toward Beiteddine where people can be seen perched on the stone exteriors of this village's buildings and walls, trying to capture the best shot of Beiteddine’s exotic appeal. The entire palace is a bit difficult-to-navigate, particularly for first-time visitors. Hence, hiring a local guide is recommended. Apart from the famous Hammams or royal baths, the palace complex includes:

• Dar El Baraniyyeh—outer section: This is the main entrance to the palace, leading toward a massive courtyard called the Al-Midan.
• Dar El Wousta—middle section: The most impressive part of the palace, it features some amazing artifacts. The most popular sculpture is the beautifully-restored bust of Kamal Jumblatt. The central courtyard eventually gives way to Beiteddine’s massive gardens which are also called Lebanon's ‘Alhambra.’

Visitors can use the coastal highway located 17 km beyond the northern boundary of Beirut to reach the palace. Visitors can also reach the palace by renting a vehicle from the nearby city of Damour.

Emir Amine Palace

The palace of Emir Qassim faces the Beiteddine palace and is often referred to as the ‘Serail’ or the main, local governing body since it has become a seat of the local authorities. Part of this palace has been converted into a small hotel and the hotel presents a chance to seek accommodation within the inner chambers which were once used by the ruling kings. Another spot of tourist curiosity is the nearby country house that houses the Maronite Archbishop of Sidon.

Shouf Biosphere Reserve

This is the largest conservation area in Lebanon, spread across 50,000 hectares. The dense cedar forests found here are historical—some are believed to be more than 2,000-years old. Daytime safaris are arranged so people can easily spot the wide variety of wild mammals found here. The native occupants include the Lebanese wolf, some species of jungle cats and some exotic birds. Al-Shouf Reserve is also a popular trekking and hiking destination. Half-day trips to the nearby mountain trails are regularly arranged. The trail includes a beautiful view of nearby Qaraoun Lake and the Békaa valley. The main office within the reserve has a small space displaying goods made by the rural community. This is a great opportunity to buy some reasonably-priced, authentic Lebanese handiwork.

Information regarding the reserve and the day trips can be sought from the main office at Semkanieh Main Road (opposite the Irfan Medical Center).