Private Trip to Beiteddine Palace, Deir elQamar and Mousa Castle

Exploring Lebanon’s Hidden Gems: Beiteddine Palace, Deir elQamar, and Mousa Castle

Getting a glimpse of Lebanon’s diverse heritage is a rewarding experience, and this private tour from Beirut offers just that. With a carefully curated itinerary, you’ll visit some of the country’s most remarkable sites — from a 19th-century Ottoman palace to a quirky castle built by a man’s lifelong dream, and a charming village steeped in history.

What we love about this experience is the combination of scenic drives through the mountains, expert guides who bring history alive, and the opportunity to explore sites that aren’t always crowded or overly commercialized. Plus, the flexibility of a private tour means you can enjoy the day at a comfortable pace.

The only thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan for a meal during the day or bring snacks. This tour suits travelers who appreciate cultural sights, stunning views, and stories behind the architecture, all delivered with personal attention. It’s ideal for history buffs, families, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Lebanon’s charming countryside.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.
• Includes scenic drives through Lebanon’s beautiful mountain landscapes.
• Visit iconic sites like Beiteddine Palace and Moussa Castle.
• Authentic village exploration of Deir elQamar, Lebanon’s first municipality.
• Flexible pace and commentary offer a deeper understanding of the sites.
• Cost-effective at $75 per person for an 8-hour in-depth tour.

The First Stop: Beiteddine Palace

This 19th-century Ottoman palace is a highlight of any trip to Lebanon. Built between 1788 and 1818 by Emir Bashir Chehab II, it’s a stunning example of the architectural grandeur of that period. Today, it’s partly open to the public and hosts the renowned Beiteddine Festival, which adds a touch of cultural vibrancy to the site.

What makes Beiteddine fascinating is how its uses have evolved over time. From a royal residence to an Ottoman government building, then a French administrative center, and now a cultural site and summer residence for Lebanon’s president—each phase of its history adds layers of meaning.

The intricate mosaics and courtyard views are complemented by the stories your guide shares about Lebanese history and architecture. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the experience of walking through the palace’s beautifully restored rooms, amid lush gardens, is worth the extra expense.

As one reviewer noted, “Albert was a great guide at the sight as well as informative with the history of Lebanon,” which enhances the visit beyond just gazing at pretty walls.

Discovering Moussa Castle

Perched on a hill between Deir elQamar and Beiteddine, Moussa Castle is unlike any other castle you’ve seen. Built by Moussa Al Maamari, it’s a personal project that started when he was just 14 — inspired by love and his passion for architecture. The story of Moussa’s lifelong effort to create his dream castle is both inspiring and quirky.

Visitors can expect to see walls and towers filled with Moussa’s own artwork, inscriptions, and handcrafted details that reflect his beliefs and ideas. The guide shared that Moussa was born on July 27, 1931, and built the castle to impress a local girl he loved, which adds a romantic (and humorous) touch to the visit.

Though the entry fee isn’t included, the castle’s uniqueness makes it a worthwhile stop, especially for those interested in personal stories behind architecture. It’s also a chance to step into a world that’s all about imagination and perseverance—something reviewer comments echo with affection: “He is a very smart guide with a lot of culture and knowledge about Lebanon.”

Expect to spend about an hour here, exploring the towers, passages, and personal touches Moussa added over decades.

The Charm of Deir elQamar

This village, meaning “Monastery of the Moon,” offers a snapshot of Lebanon’s diverse religious tapestry and history. It was the first Lebanese village to establish a municipality in 1864, highlighting its historical importance.

Deir elQamar’s streets are lined with beautiful traditional houses, and it’s packed with stories. It was almost completely destroyed during the civil war in 1860 but was rebuilt thanks to French intervention, making it a symbol of resilience.

People from varied religious backgrounds — Muslims, Christians, and Jews — have lived harmoniously here, which still influences the village’s welcoming atmosphere. You’ll see the impressive Fakhreddine Mosque, built in 1493, and the Church of Saidet et Tallé, which dates back to the 15th century and was built on an ancient Phoenician temple site.

Reviewers have praised guides for their insights: “The legend says that there was a Druze Emir looking at the hill of Dar El Kamar who saw a light coming out of it,” making these visits more than just sightseeing—they’re stories waiting to be told.

The stop is brief—about 30 minutes—but packed with enough history and charm to leave a lasting impression.

Fakhreddine’s Mosque and Saydet El Talle Church

Fakhreddine Mosque, with its striking octagonal minaret, stands as the oldest mosque in Mount Lebanon. Built in 1493 and restored later, it’s a peaceful spot with centuries of history behind its walls.

Not far from there is the Church of Saidet et Tallé, built over ancient religious sites, which highlights Lebanon’s layered spiritual past. The legend of a Druze Emir witnessing a divine light adds a mystical element to this site.

Both are free to visit, and their quiet, historic ambiance offers a perfect pause during your busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation & Comfort: The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Beirut hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the scenic drives through mountain roads. The group size is kept private, which means you’ll get personalized attention and flexible pacing.

Guide & Expertise: A professional guide leads the tour, sharing in-depth stories about each site. Based on reviews, guides like Albert and Ziad are praised for their knowledge and engaging commentary, adding valuable context to every stop.

Timing & Duration: Starting at 9:00 am, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours—perfect for a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. Since the price of $75 per person covers this extensive experience, it offers solid value considering the inclusion of private transport and guide service.

Pricing & Value: With the main sites’ entrance fees not included, you might want to budget an extra amount for tickets. Still, at $75, the overall experience delivers a thorough, authentic look at the region, especially considering the personalized approach.

What’s Not Included: Lunch isn’t part of the package, giving you the flexibility to dine as you wish—whether grabbing a local meal or packing snacks.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights

What sets this tour apart is the storytelling aspect. From guides sharing legends about Deir elQamar to Moussa’s personal story of building a castle for love, these narratives enrich each site. The reviews mention guides like Ziad and Albert not only being knowledgeable but also personable, making the day more engaging.

The scenic mountain drive itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views that are perfect for photos and reflection. Travelers will appreciate how each stop combines history, architecture, and local culture, making it more than just ticking off sights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience caters well to those interested in Lebanese culture, architecture, and history without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling and authentic sites over crowded tourist spots. The private aspect ensures a more relaxed and tailored day, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a meaningful day out.

The Sum Up

This private Lebanon tour offers a well-balanced look into the country’s past and present through carefully selected stops, expert guides, and scenic drives. For $75, you gain access to captivating stories, stunning architecture, and a taste of Lebanon’s resilient spirit—all in one day.

It’s best suited for travelers who value personalized experiences, appreciate cultural storytelling, and want to explore Lebanon beyond the typical tourist paths. The combination of historical sites like Beiteddine Palace, whimsical architecture at Moussa Castle, and authentic village life in Deir elQamar makes this a worthwhile addition to any Lebanon itinerary.

If you’re after a deeply personal, insightful, and visually rewarding day, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to bring your curiosity, a camera, and an appetite for stories rooted in Lebanon’s vibrant landscape.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Beirut hotel.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance tickets for sites like Beiteddine Palace and Moussa Castle are not included.

Can I customize the pace of the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the pace to suit your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and possibly snacks, since lunch isn’t provided.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and children, especially those interested in history and stories.

Is the tour available year-round?
While the data doesn’t specify seasonal restrictions, most tours operate year-round, weather permitting.

What makes the guide special?
Reviewers highlight guides like Ziad and Albert for their knowledge, storytelling, and personable approach, which greatly enhances the experience.