Hiking in Akkar

One of the most gorgeous regions of Lebanon is known as the Chouf mountain range, or simply Chouf. The road it its midst boasts stunning vistas over valleys, gorges, rivers, forests and verdant mountains. The landscape itself is dotted with charming villages that still hold true to their traditional character.
A major attraction in the Chouf is the Palace of Beiteddine, an elegant Moorish-style palace that has been designated as a historical monument. It was built in the late 18th century by the Emir Bashir and is today the summer residence of Lebanon’s presidents. Not far away the village of Deir al-Qamar delights the senses with its cobblestone streets. The village was the capital of Mount Lebanon in the beginning of the 17th century under the reign of the Druze emir, Fakhreddine. Deir al-Qamar has maintained its traditional architecture and boasts an interesting wax museum. The greater Chouf area has several exceptional attractions such as the Barouk Cedar Reserve and the picturesque village of Maaser el Chouf.