One Of The Best Tourism Villages Is This Middle Eastern Destination You've Never Heard Of
Douma, Lebanon remains one of the best-kept secrets in the Middle East for a scenic village vacation. This picturesque mountain townis characterized by its traditional stone houses and narrow, winding streets. A quaint and ancient village within the Kfar Hilda valley, Douma immerses visitors in Lebanon's rich history and the warmth of its people. With its serene atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and historical significance, Douma is a must-visit location for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Lebanon. Because Douma is such a standout destination, it landed a spot on the United Nations World Tourism Organization's 2023 Best Tourism Villages.
Explore Souma's age-old Souk or peruse its Heritage Museum and discover the extensive history that Douma was built upon. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, it is also an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Whether you're exploring Douma's enchanting streets, sampling the local cuisine, or simply soaking in its panoramic views, you're sure to leave Duoma with unforgettable memories of Lebanon's hospitality and beauty.
What to see in and around Douma, Lebanon
One of Douma's most prized buildings is its central Souk. For those unfamiliar, a souk is a Middle Eastern marketplace. This building in Douma has stood for centuries, with recent findings suggesting it contains structures built as long ago as 550 AD. Stroll through its narrow alleyways, you'll find a diverse array of shops and stalls selling a wide range of goods. From handmade pottery to locally grown fruits and vegetables, the souk is a treasure trove of local products and artisanal items. If your shopping itch isn't satisfied there, take a short drive to the village of Assia. This neighboring town is renowned for its legacy of pottery making and offers handcrafted homeware.
Discover Douma's fascinating history while visiting The Heritage Museum. Inside you can observe collections of Douma's traditional clothing, pottery, and more while learning the stories of Douma's past. As you explore Douma, you'll quickly notice the town sits amidst a stunning natural landscape. For this reason, you'll find some of Lebanon's most breathtaking natural attractions just a car ride away. Perhaps the most popular of these is the Tannourine Cedars Forest Reserve. Just about a half-hour drive from Douma, this natural area offers several hiking trails winding through ancient cedar groves.
Where to stay and eat in Douma, Lebanon
If you're seeking a blend of relaxation, history, and cultural exploration, Beit Douma is the perfect place to book your overnight stay in Douma, Lebanon. This renowned hotel is a beautiful example of traditional Lebanese architecture, featuring a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion overlooking the village of Douma. Guests are welcomed into a world where classic elegance meets modern comfort. In addition to this stunning interior, you'll be served delectable, homemade local dishes. For travelers seeking an authentic experience of Lebanese hospitality, Beit Douma is a must.
Another authentic option for a place to stay and dine is Diwan Al Baik. This charming bed and breakfast was built 170 years ago, according to the listing on Trip Advisor, and a descendant of the original builder is a man named Joseph who still runs it. However, even if you don't spend a night in the guesthouse, Diwan Al Baik should be on your foodie bucket list for authentic cuisine. Call ahead of time to dine on made-from-scratch local fare like Keshek, Majadarat Fassouliya, and Amhiyet.