Golden-hour view over Mount Lebanon's terraced hillsides, stone villages and the Mediterranean coastline near Jounieh

Mount Lebanon

Mount Lebanon is a scenic area in Lebanon, known for its mountain landscapes, historic villages and Mediterranean views. Its relaxed atmosphere and local traditions give it a distinctive character.

Country
Lebanon
Population
1.5 million
Area
1,238 km²
Time zone
EET (UTC+2)
Language
Arabic
Nearby airport
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport

Passengers

Luggage

About Mount Lebanon

Mount Lebanon is a mountainous coastal governorate in central Lebanon that surrounds the capital, Beirut, and stretches from the Mediterranean shore to high peaks. Its mix of historic port towns, mountain resorts and cedar landscapes makes it one of Lebanon's most varied destinations.

The region has deep historical roots. Byblos (Jbeil) is among the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while landmarks such as the Beiteddine Palace in Chouf, the Our Lady of Lebanon shrine at Harissa and the Jeita Grotto reflect centuries of cultural and religious heritage.

Coastal districts such as Keserwan and Jbeil centre on Jounieh and Byblos, offering harbours, beaches, nightlife and the Casino du Liban. Inland, Matn, Baabda, Aley and Chouf give way to pine- and cedar-covered hills, summer resorts and mountain villages, with the Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve as a notable protected area.

The area also functions as a business and residential extension of Beirut, with industrial zones, offices and commuter towns across Metn and Baabda. Ski resorts at Mzaar Kfardebian and Zaarour bring winter visitors, while summer draws people to cooler mountain towns.

For travellers, Mount Lebanon combines cultural sightseeing, outdoor recreation and seaside relaxation within easy reach of Beirut, making it relevant for both leisure trips and business stays.

Stone houses and cypress trees on terraced slopes of a historic Chouf mountain village in Mount Lebanon at golden hour

Mount Lebanon Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit

Spring and early autumn offer mild weather for coastal sightseeing and mountain excursions. Summer is lively in Jounieh and Byblos, while winter brings snow to Mzaar Kfardebian and Zaarour for skiing.

How to Get Around

Mount Lebanon is served by the coastal highway linking Beirut, Jounieh and Byblos, with mountain roads into Aley and Chouf. Shared taxis and buses run on main routes, while rental cars, taxis and private transfers give easier access to villages and ski areas.

Where to Stay

Jounieh and Byblos offer coastal hotels, resorts and nightlife, while Broummana and Aley have traditional mountain lodgings. The Chouf provides quieter guesthouses near the cedar reserve and historic villages.

Food & Drink

Local dining includes Lebanese mezze, grilled meats, fresh seafood in coastal towns and mountain dishes such as kibbeh and manakish. Cafés, beach restaurants and hillside terraces are common along the coast and in resort towns.

Ground Transportation Services in Mount Lebanon

Airport Transfers

Travel between Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport and Jounieh, Byblos, Broummana, Aley and other Mount Lebanon destinations.

Hourly Chauffeur

Book a private driver by the hour for business meetings, coastal sightseeing, mountain excursions and flexible travel around Mount Lebanon.

Car Rental

Rent a car to explore Mount Lebanon's coastal towns, mountain villages and ski areas at your own pace.

Bus & Group Transfers

Arrange minibuses or charter coaches for group travel, corporate events, tours and airport transfers across Mount Lebanon.