Beiteddine - Discovering Lebanon

Travelling to Beiteddine

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Beiteddine, a pretty good destination in Lebanon (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Beiteddine and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Beiteddine, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Lebanon, here's everything to know about Beiteddine for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Beiteddine

Beiteddine is a small town in the Chouf District of Lebanon, located about 45 kilometers southeast of Beirut. It is known for its historical significance and its well-preserved palace, which was built in the 19th century by Emir Bechir Chehab II. The palace is a fine example of Lebanese-Ottoman architecture and is now home to the Beiteddine Festival, an annual cultural event that attracts visitors from all over the world. The town is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and forests.

What to visit in Beiteddine

1. Beiteddine Palace - Situated in the Chouf Mountains, the Beiteddine Palace is a masterpiece of Lebanese architecture. It was built in the early 19th century by Emir Bashir Shihab II and has been restored in the 20th century. The palace is known for its ornate interiors, beautiful courtyards, and impressive museums.
2. Deir al-Qamar - A quaint stone village located in the Chouf Mountains, Deir al-Qamar was once a thriving town and was the capital of the Mount Lebanon Emirate during the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with its historic buildings, old souks, and beautiful gardens.
3. Maaser el Shouf Cedar Reserve - The Maaser el Shouf Cedar Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site that protects one of the largest remaining forests of Lebanon cedar trees in the country. The reserve is home to many other plant and animal species, including the Syrian brown bear, the Eurasian wolf, and the Levant spiny mouse.
4. Moussa Castle - A unique attraction located in the town of Deir el Qamar, the Moussa Castle is a castle that was built over a period of 60 years by a Lebanese man named Moussa Abdel Karim Al Maamari. The castle is filled with many interesting artifacts, such as ancient weapons, traditional Lebanese costumes, and miniature models of historic buildings.
5. Emir Bashir II Mosque - Located in the town of Deir el Qamar, the Emir Bashir II Mosque is a beautifully designed mosque that was built in the early 19th century. The mosque features intricate stone carvings, decorated arches, and a stunning dome. It is one of the finest examples of Lebanese Islamic architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Lebanon, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Beiteddine

The best time to visit Beiteddine in Lebanon would be during the spring or autumn months, specifically from April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. The summer months from July to August can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 35°C or higher, which can make exploring the town more challenging. Alternatively, winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold, but it can offer amazing scenery, such as snowcapped mountains, which can be a great sightseeing opportunity.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Beiteddine

To get to Beiteddine in Lebanon, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.
2. Take a taxi or a shared minibus (called "service" in Lebanon) to Cola Intersection bus station in Beirut. 3. From Cola Intersection, take a bus or minibus to Beiteddine. The journey takes around 45 minutes and costs around 2 USD.
4. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi directly from the airport to Beiteddine. The journey takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour and costs around 45 to 50 USD.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any further information.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Beiteddine, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Beiteddine

Beiteddine is located in Lebanon, which is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Beiteddine: 1. Fattoush Salad: This is a traditional Lebanese salad that consists of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and crispy pita chips. It is usually dressed with a tangy mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac.
2. Kibbeh: This is a popular Lebanese dish made of ground beef or lamb, bulgur wheat, and a variety of spices. It can be served raw (kibbeh nayyeh) or cooked (kibbeh bil sanieh) and is often served with a yogurt sauce.
3. Manakish: This is a savory Lebanese pastry that is similar to pizza. It is made with a thin dough that is topped with a mixture of za'atar (a blend of herbs and spices) and olive oil.
4. Tabbouleh: This is a classic Lebanese salad that is made with parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. It is usually dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
5. Moutabal: This is a dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. It is similar to baba ghanoush and is often served as an appetizer.
6. Sfiha: This is a popular Lebanese snack that consists of a small pastry dough that is filled with seasoned ground beef or lamb.
7. Shawarma: This is a popular Lebanese street food that consists of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) that is cooked on a spit and then sliced off and served in a pita pocket with vegetables and sauces.
These are just a few of the typical foods of Beiteddine (Lebanon). Lebanese cuisine offers a wide range of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy any taste bud!
You can find general info about typical foods in Lebanon here.

Is Beiteddine an expensive destination for tourists?

Beiteddine is generally considered to be a mid-range to high-end destination in Lebanon, and prices for accommodation, dining, and sightseeing activities can be higher compared to other parts of the country. However, there are also budget-friendly options available in the area if you plan your trip carefully. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices of different accommodation options and restaurants before your trip to ensure you stay within your budget. Additionally, visiting during the low season (typically from November to April, excluding holidays) can often mean lower prices for flights and accommodations.

Where to find accomodation in Beiteddine

The best areas for finding accommodation to visit Beiteddine in Lebanon are the surrounding towns of Deir el Qamar and Aley, both of which offer a range of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Alternatively, you can also stay in the city of Beirut, which is about an hour's drive away from Beiteddine, and offers a wider range of accommodation options. However, keep in mind that Beirut can be busy and crowded, and you may prefer to stay in a quieter and more peaceful area.
You can check hotel prices at Beiteddine here:
Booking.com

Is Beiteddine a safe destination for tourists?

Beiteddine, Lebanon is generally a safe place for tourists. The area is known for its historical landmarks, stunning mountain views, and cultural events, attracting tourists from around the world. However, like any place, it is important to take precautions as a tourist and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to follow basic safety guidelines such as keeping your valuables secure, avoiding traveling alone at night, and being cautious of suspicious behavior. It is also advisable to stay up to date with current news and travel advisories before planning your trip to Beiteddine.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Lebanon here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Beiteddine.

What type of travelers will enjoy Beiteddine the most?

Beiteddine, Lebanon is a great destination for different types of travelers. Here are some ideas: - Couples: Beiteddine Palace is a romantic setting for couples who appreciate history, architecture and gardens. You can take a guided tour of the palace and its museum, enjoy a walk in the gardens and have a picnic. The palace also hosts cultural events and concerts.
- Families: Beiteddine is a family-friendly destination, especially if you have kids who love nature and adventure. You can hike in the nearby mountains, visit the Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, have a picnic in one of the parks, and explore the local markets and restaurants. There are also some playgrounds and activities for children.
- Culture-seekers: Beiteddine is a cultural hub in Lebanon, and it offers many opportunities to learn about the history, art and traditions of the region. You can visit the Emir Bashir II Palace Museum, the Beiteddine Music Festival, the Deir al-Qamar Old Souk, and the Moussa Castle. You can also take a cooking class, a dance workshop or a language lesson.
Overall, Beiteddine is a great destination for people who appreciate Lebanese culture, nature, and relaxation. It can be a good choice for families, couples, and travelers who want to experience something different from the usual tourist spots.

How to get around Beiteddine

Beiteddine is a small town in Lebanon, and the most common mode of transportation around the town is by foot or by car. Taxis are also available in the town for those who prefer not to drive themselves. However, it is important to note that the roads in the town can be narrow and can get congested during peak hours. Additionally, some of the roads in Beiteddine may not be suited for larger vehicles, so it is best to use a smaller car when driving around the town.

What to see around Beiteddine

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Beiteddine: 1. Deir al-Qamar - a charming historic village with narrow streets and beautiful architecture.
2. Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve - a large forest of cedar trees with hiking trails and scenic views.
3. Maaser el Shouf - a village located within the Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve with picturesque surroundings and outdoor activities.
4. Sidon - a coastal city with a rich history and heritage sites such as the sea castle and the old souks.
5. Tyre - another coastal city with a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Tyre which dates back to the Phoenician times. 6. Beaufort Castle - a historic Crusader castle located on a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Jezzine - a town located on the edge of a cliff with a beautiful waterfall and great scenery.
8. Baaqline - a town located in the mountains with an old Ottoman palace, stunning views, and hiking trails.
9. Barouk Cedar Forest - a reserve of majestic Lebanese cedars, perfect for an easy hike and a picnic. 10. Aley - a cozy town with scenic views, great restaurants, and bars popular during the summer months.
For every travel information about Lebanon you can click here.

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