Hidden emerald pools in a green river valley, perfect for hiking and a swim.
Chouwen (or Chouwen Lake) is a series of hidden emerald pools in the lush Nahr Ibrahim valley,
below the Jabal Moussa reserve, about 50 km from Beirut. Reached by a scenic hike through greenery, its cool, clear waters make it one of Lebanon’s most rewarding spots for a nature walk and a refreshing swim.
"Quick facts",
The Nahr Ibrahim — the ancient river Adonis — has been celebrated since antiquity, its valley wrapped in myth and greenery. Today the walk down to the Chouwen pools, through terraces and forest, is a favourite escape for hikers and swimmers looking for unspoiled nature within easy reach of Beirut.
Cool, clear natural pools ideal for a swim.
A lush, green hike along the Nahr Ibrahim.
The pools sit below the UNESCO-listed Jabal Moussa reserve.
Chouwen is about 50 km from Beirut — roughly a 1 to 1.5-hour drive to the trailhead, followed by a scenic hike down to the pools. Because access is on foot, it’s best done on a guided hiking tour that handles the route and timing.
A series of hidden emerald pools in the Nahr Ibrahim valley, reached by a scenic hike and perfect for swimming in nature.
It’s about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from Beirut to the trailhead, then a hike down to the pools — best done with a guide.
Late spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm enough to enjoy a swim.
