CAZA:

Shouf
1200m

Etymology:

Syriac origin, "Ain Zohoulto", meaning "the small source"

Perched at an altitude of 1200m, Ain Zhalta is a charming village of Shouf including the cedar forest of Ain Zhalta-Bmohray which is part of the Shouf Reserve, listed by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in 2005. The village is famous for its 3 water sources including the strong source of Nabeh el-Safa which has induced the emergence of many restaurants on its banks. The show of running water is an irresistible sight, especially when accompanied by delicious mezze. Ain Zhalta offers a most pleasant setting in the heart of a mountain dotted with history and perennial traditions.

Must-do things
Architectural Heritage
  • Mar Nqoula historic church built in the late 19th century
  • The citadel built at the time of Emir Fakhreddine and later transformed into a Protestant church
  • The Jewish cemeteries
  • The ruins of the ancient village Kafra
Natural Heritage
  • The cedar forest of Ain Zhalta-Bmohray which is part of the Shouf Reserve, listed by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in 2005
  • The numerous sources of water
Cultural Heritage
  • A variety of restaurants around Nabeh el-Safa River
Hiking
  • The hiking trail, section 18, Ain Zhalta-Barouk, 22 km (LMT association)
Where To Eat
  • Yammine: A Lebanese cuisine on the watercourses of Nabeh el-Safa, a region renowned for its restaurants.
  • Abou-Joseph: Located on the main road of Ain Dara, 15 minutes from Ain Zhalta, this snack is certainly worth a visit for its tasty sandwiches, including chicken livers.
Nearby sites and villages
Designed by BETWEEN THE LINES