Lebanon has a wonderful selection of unique guesthouses, many of which are located in the charming mountain villages. Among them is Byout Ghalboun, a project with preservation of heritage at its heart.

Byout Ghalboun (+961 76 771 666) was born from two convictions: that Lebanon’s traditional architecture is worth saving and that Ghalboun’s community deserves to thrive. The project takes old Lebanese stone houses and breathes new life into them — renovating them as guesthouses that carry their history forward rather than erasing it. What began with two houses has grown into three, with more always on the horizon.

Beit El Baydar sits at the center of a generous plot, anchored by a large circular baydar that doubles as a belvedere over the village and valley below. The restored house offers four double rooms arranged around a central living room, an open kitchen and a garden with a pool.

Beit El Dayaa unfolds across three floors. The ground floor is built for gathering — an open kitchen, a fireplace and a wide dining and living space. Above it, four bedrooms and a penthouse suite open onto sweeping views toward Batroun and Beirut.

Beit Riyad, the newest addition, arrives in a different register: blue and white, with the unhurried feel of a Greek island house. Four bedrooms, an open kitchen flowing into the dining and reception area and its own swimming pool.

Alongside the houses, the authentic restaurant La Cave d’hôte has also been restored and expanded — larger now but no less itself.

Domaine St. Gabriel Winery Tour and Tasting

A visit to the nearby Domaine St. Gabriel Winery takes you through the full arc of winemaking — from a walk through the vineyards and a tour of the cellars to a guided tasting of wines rooted in the terroir of this land.

The Beehive Experience

An immersive introduction to the world of bees. A 40-minute presentation with our beekeeper covers the craft of beekeeping and the role bees play in the ecosystem, followed by a guided visit to the hives — a rare chance to observe these remarkable creatures at close range.

Yoga Retreat

The setting lends itself naturally to stillness. Byout Ghalboun’s guesthouses offer a quiet backdrop for yoga retreats — whether you come as an experienced practitioner or a first-timer looking to slow down and reset.

Hiking in Ghalboun

Seven scenic trails wind through the landscapes surrounding Byout Ghalboun, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes. Each one offers a different way to experience the hills, villages, and valleys of the region.

Kids’ Activities

Byout Ghalboun has plenty to keep younger guests engaged. Highlights include the Beehive Tour at Les Ruches St. Gabriel, a visit to the Expo Hakel fossil museum and kid-friendly hikes. Activities can be tailored to age and interest.

Nearby Attractions

The surrounding area rewards exploration. In Ghalboun itself: St. Georges Church and the ancient ruins of St. Phocas. Nearby, the sanctuary of Our Lady of El Hawsh, St. Charbel of Edessa Church in Maad, and St. Rouhana Church in Ain Kfaa. For a literary detour, the Maroun Abboud House in Ain Kfaa and the Old Press in Bejjeh are both worth a visit.

Ghalboun International Festival

Launched in 2011, the Ghalboun International Festival has grown into one of Lebanon’s distinctive summer cultural events. Held annually in the open air — often set within the vineyards of Domaine St. Gabriel — it brings together renowned local and international artists across classical music, orchestral performance, poetry and the arts. Music, wine, and the surrounding landscape make for an evening unlike most.

Best Time to Visit

Byout Ghalboun has something to offer in every season. In summer, the pool opens and the Sunday lunch buffet is in full swing. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking the trails, joining a yoga retreat or visiting the beehives. In winter, the guesthouses come into their own — fireplaces lit, the pace slower, with dedicated holiday packages to make the most of the cold season.

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