Nestled on a hillside of the Metn district, Brummana has long been the favorite summer destination for visitors and locals alike thanks to its cool mountain air. Known as “The City of Flowers,” it is rich with colorful bouquets that adorn traditional houses. It is also the green lung of the region, with thousands of majestic pine trees lining its pretty streets.
Getting There
There are two ways to reach Brummana. From Dora, one can take the Metn Express Highway to Jouret al-Ballout which leads to Brummana. The other option is from Mkalles going up to Mansouriye, Ain Saade, Beit Mery and leading to Brummana.
What to Do
Ferme Mar Chaaya
Brummana is well known for Deir Mar Chaya, the Maronite monastery which was established in 1700 by the Maronite Patriarch Gabriel Blouzani and is the principal home of the Antonine Order. Next to this monastery is the Ferme Mar Chaaya (+961 70 158466) open to the public. It is also a great place to take young children on weekends, as it has a petting zoo with goats, sheep, llamas, cows and other animals. There is also an organic store selling a wide range of produce grown at the farm along with dishes prepared by the resident monks. While there, stock up on baladi cheese, labneh, pickles, orange blossom water and other local delicacies. The farm is open daily from 8 am until 8 pm.
Hiking and Scenic Walks
Brummana offers a fantastic range of paths for those who love walking in nature. One can also stroll around the scenic streets of the old Brummana district and admire the traditional Levantine limestone houses, some dating back to the 18th and 19th century from the reign of the Abillama Emirs.
Lazarus Monastery and Church of Saint Isaiah
The Lazarus Monastery is another notable holy site in Brummana, which was once used by Emir Abilama. Today, most of it is closed off to the public, but you can still see the large two-level courtyard with the cloisters that lead from it. Further down the road you’ll find the 16th-century Church of Saint Isaiah. Your landmark will be a gigantic oak tree which locals claim is 1,500 years old.
Where to Eat
Brummana’s dining scene blends old favorites with new spots. For classic Lebanese mezze in a grand setting, Mounir (+961 4 873 900), Burj El Hamam (+961 24 960 058) and Kasr Fakhreddine (+961 24 961 387) never disappoint. Lanai (+961 70 020 055) offers refined alfresco dining and On The Rocks (+961 70 020 055) continues to draw crowds with its views. Broumana Villa (+961 24 860 120) and Broumana Yard (+961 71 719 671) have emerged as lively hubs, gathering a mix of cafés, bars and restaurants in one place. For something more intimate Table du Chef Jean Habchy (+961 3 698 494) serves elegant long-table dinners in nature.
Where to Stay
Printania Palace Hotel (+961 4 862 000) is a classic, set in the heart of town with a beautiful garden and pool, while Le Crillon (+961 4 865 555) offers a more affordable, comfortable stay with mountain views.
Just 15 minutes away in Bhersaf, Villa Saf (+961 71 344 733) is a new 14-room boutique guesthouse that blends heritage with mid-century design, featuring spa facilities, a wellness center and a seasonal pool. For a livelier option, Canopée Resort (+961 76 023 022) combines stays surrounded by pine trees with on-site dining and a vibrant evening atmosphere. Al Bustan Hotel (+961 4 870 400) in Beit Mey is a short drive away and boasts a beautiful property and a relaxing spa.
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If you enjoyed reading this, check out our mini guide to Mtein.
