Maaser El Chouf: A Lebanese Mountain Gem

Discover Maaser El Chouf: A serene Lebanese village with ancient cedar forests, rich history, and breathtaking mountain views.

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Maaser El Chouf

Maaser El Chouf is a picturesque village nestled in the Chouf Mountains of Lebanon, renowned for its well-preserved rural character, ancient cedar forests, and historical significance dating back to the 5th century B.C.E.. It offers a serene escape with stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Maaser El Chouf

Local tips

Visit during spring or fall for the best weather and stunning natural scenery.
Try local dishes at family-owned restaurants to experience authentic Lebanese cuisine.
Engage with local artisans to learn about traditional crafts and perhaps take home a unique souvenir.
Take part in guided tours to explore the Chouf Biosphere Reserve safely and learn more about its ecology.
Plan your visit around local festivals to experience the vibrant culture and community spirit.

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Getting There

Driving

From Beirut, take the coastal highway south towards Damour. From Damour, follow the road to Beiteddine, passing through Kfarhim. Continue towards Maasser Beiteddine, then take the road towards Moukhtara. From Moukhtara, a left turn will lead you to Maasser El Chouf. The drive is approximately 48 minutes, covering around 51.4 km. Fuel costs for the trip are estimated between $6-9.
Taxi

A taxi from Beirut to Maaser El Chouf is a direct but more expensive option. The ride takes about 48 minutes and costs between $60 and $80. Taxi fares within Beirut start at LL600,000, but the price to Maasser El Chouf will be significantly higher.

Discover more about Maaser El Chouf

Maaser El Chouf, a charming village in the Mount Lebanon province, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Perched high in the Chouf Mountains, approximately 57 km from Beirut, the village is known for its traditional, well-preserved rural character and has been recognized by UNESCO as having 0% pollution. Archaeological evidence suggests continuous inhabitation since 450 B.C.E., with Roman burial sites and a stone fortress in the "Hosn" area attesting to its ancient roots. The village witnessed an agricultural boom in the 16th century under Prince Fakhereddine and later thrived with vineyards and mulberry orchards during Ottoman rule. Maaser El Chouf is famous for being home to part of the Cedars of Lebanon, specifically the Maasser El Chouf Cedar Forest, which is part of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. This reserve is the largest in Lebanon and is home to some of the oldest cedar trees in the world, some estimated to be around 4,000 years old. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails with panoramic views of the Beqaa Valley, Qaraoun Lake, and the Mediterranean Sea. Today, Maasser El Chouf maintains its ancient traditions through its residents. Visitors can savor artisanal wines at St. Michael's Winery, explore the old town square and mill, and experience local culture at the annual Jabalna Festival. The village also boasts historical landmarks like St. Michael's Church, built in 1901 on the foundations of an older church.