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Maaser El Chouf: A Lebanese Mountain Village

Discover Maaser El Chouf: A blend of Lebanese heritage, natural beauty, and serene landscapes in the heart of the Chouf mountains.

Maaser El Chouf is a serene village nestled in the mountains of Lebanon, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Surrounded by cedar forests and rolling hills, it's an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The village boasts traditional architecture, historical landmarks, and a warm local community eager to share their traditions.

A brief summary to Maaser El Chouf

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Local tips

  • Visit during the 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

  • Taxi

    From Beirut, a taxi to Maaser El Chouf takes approximately 48 minutes and costs between $60 and $80. Taxis can be found throughout Beirut, or booked through various ride-sharing apps.

  • Driving

    Driving from Beirut to Maaser El Chouf takes around 48 minutes via the coastal highway south. Take the highway to Damour, then follow the road to Beiteddine, passing through Kfarhim. From Kfarhim, you can take either the southern route through Baaqline or the northern route through Deir El Qamar, both meeting at Maasser Beiteddine. Continue to Maasser El Chouf. Expect fuel costs of approximately $6 - $9.

Discover more about Maaser El Chouf

Maaser El Chouf, a charming village in the Mount Lebanon Governorate, has been continuously inhabited since the 5th century B.C.E. Archaeological evidence, including Roman burial sites and pottery, dates the village's founding back to 450 B.C.E. A prominent Roman stone fortress is located in the "Hosn" area. Under Ottoman rule, Maaser El Chouf flourished with vineyards, distilleries for wine and Arak, and mulberry orchards for silkworm farming. Today, the village maintains its traditions through its residents, St. Michael's Winery, and the annual “Jabalna Festival”. Maaser El Chouf is part of the Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve and is known for having 0% pollution. Visitors can explore the Cedar Natural Reserve, hike the 1,940-meter high mountain, and enjoy panoramic views of the Beqaa Valley, Qaraoun Lake, and the Mediterranean Sea. The Shouf's cedar forest is home to the world's oldest cedar tree, estimated to be around 4,000 years old.

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