Damour can be explored through two themes: its coastal and river landscapes, and its historic structures. This can make the town appealing to travellers who want to combine scenery and architectural heritage in one destination.

The bridge and aqueduct as historic landmarks

The present-day bridge over the Damour River replaced the original bridge built by Emir Bachîr and dates from the French Mandate period. Emir Bachîr had it built as part of several public works; the river crossing is therefore also part of the wider context of his building activity. The old Damour aqueduct also dates from the period of Emir Bachîr’s construction projects and supported the local economy at the time. Together, these structures show two different aspects of this history: the bridge as part of public building activity, and the aqueduct’s economic role at the time.

Coastal scenery and resort

Damour’s landscape includes the sea, the coast, the river and its surroundings. On the Mediterranean shore is the Damour Country Club, a beach, tennis, fitness and events resort. If you plan to visit the club, check in advance whether the facilities you want to use are available to non-residents or non-members. When planning, therefore, consider not only the coastal location but also how you want to use the resort.

Cultural and landscape attractions in Mount Lebanon

The wider destination of Mount Lebanon offers further cultural and landscape attractions. Beiteddine Palace is considered an outstanding example of the 19th-century architectural revival in Mount Lebanon. Traditional Lebanese architecture is preserved in El-Werhaniyeh, which is also home to the Assaf Museum, officially recognised as a national museum. These examples bring together a historic architectural period, the preservation of traditional building styles and a museum as a cultural point of interest in its own right.

El-Werhaniyeh’s landscape is also a distinct regional attraction. Forests cover 35% of the village’s area and include hundreds of centuries-old oak trees, some of which are over 200 years old, as well as mulberry trees, hawthorns, pines and other species. The Werhaniyeh-Freidis-Barouk Forest Trail starts in El-Werhaniyeh and is used by hikers and nature enthusiasts. The forest and trail form a focus for nature alongside the palace, architecture and museum; before setting out on a hike, it is advisable to check the trail’s current condition.

In Maasser Beit el-Din, also within the wider destination of Mount Lebanon, the name Ain El-Maasser is also used. The village’s attractions include a historic 19th-century silk factory; ancient olive presses can be found on Ram Hill. The village also celebrates the feast of Saint Elias, its patron saint, every year. The celebrations include a festive Mass in the village church, a communal dinner and an exhibition. If you would like to plan your trip around this occasion, check the current event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Admā, Beit Al Dine, Ḑahr Al Ḩarf, Zefta, Dhour Choueir, Ehden, Dahr Broummana, Mtolle

See the overview of destinations: Lebanon.