10 Things to Do in Beiteddine Palace, Deir el Qamar, Lebanon
Beiteddine Palace is an impressive 19th century palace located in the town of Deir el Qamar in Lebanon. Built by Emir Bashir Shihab II, the palace is a beautiful example of Lebanese architecture and is a popular tourist attraction. There are many things to do in Beiteddine Palace, from exploring its stunning courtyards and gardens to learning about its history and culture. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Beiteddine Palace.
1. Explore the Courtyards and Gardens: Beiteddine Palace is home to several gorgeous courtyards and gardens, each with its own unique features. The main courtyard, known as the Dar el Makhzen, is a beautiful open space with a fountain and a pool. The other courtyards and gardens include the Qasr al-Kabir, the Qasr al-Saghir, the Hammam, and the Bab el-Khan.
2. Visit the Museum: Beiteddine Palace is home to a museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the palace and its history. The museum is divided into several sections, including the History of Beiteddine Palace, the Life of Emir Bashir Shihab II, and the History of Lebanon.
3. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours of Beiteddine Palace are available and are a great way to learn more about the palace and its history. Tours usually last around two hours and include a visit to the museum, a tour of the courtyards and gardens, and a visit to the mausoleum.
4. Attend a Cultural Event: Beiteddine Palace is also home to a variety of cultural events, including concerts, theatrical performances, and movies. Many of these events are held in the palace’s courtyards and gardens and are a great way to experience the palace’s culture and history.
5. Enjoy a Meal at the Palace: The palace has several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of Lebanese cuisine. These restaurants are a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy a delicious meal.
6. Shop at the Souk: Beiteddine Palace is home to a large souk, or market, where visitors can find a variety of local goods, including jewelry, spices, and souvenirs.
7. Visit the Mausoleum: The palace is home to the mausoleum of Emir Bashir Shihab II, which is a great place to learn more about the palace’s history. The mausoleum is located in the palace’s main courtyard and is open to visitors.
8. Take a Hike: Beiteddine Palace is surrounded by the beautiful Chouf Mountains, which offer a variety of hiking trails. These trails are perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty and offer stunning views of the palace and its surroundings.
9. Go Horseback Riding: The palace is also home to several horse stables, where visitors can take a guided horseback riding tour of the area. This is a great way to explore the area’s natural beauty and get a unique view of the palace.
10. Visit the Winery: Beiteddine Palace is home to a winery, which offers tastings and tours of its vineyards. The winery also produces a variety of wines, which are available for purchase.
Beiteddine Palace is a stunning example of Lebanese architecture and is a great place to experience the area’s culture and history. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of exploring the palace’s courtyards and gardens or a more active day of hiking and horseback riding, Beiteddine Palace has something for everyone.