About Aley
Aley is a hilltop city in the Mount Lebanon Governorate, about 20 kilometers east of Beirut, known as the "Bride of the Summer" for its cool climate and pine-covered hills.
Sitting at around 900 meters above sea level, Aley has long been a popular summer retreat for Beirutis escaping the coastal heat. Its lively center, traditional red-roofed villas, and sweeping Mediterranean views give it a mix of alpine charm and urban energy. In recent years, Aley has also become a sought-after residential hub, offering a balance of space, greenery, and quick access to the capital. The area features a mix of heritage villas, modern apartments, and gated communities, appealing to families, professionals, and Lebanese expatriates returning from abroad.
Things To Do in Aley
Khalde — Beachfront & Watersports
Khalde sits right on the Mediterranean and is known for its sandy public beach and casual seafood restaurants. It’s one of the closest seaside escapes to the mountains of Aley, and offers jet ski rentals, beach cafés, and boat day options during summer.
Aley Equi Club
Set in the pine-covered hills just outside Aley’s center, the Aley Equi Club offers horseback riding lessons, guided trail rides, and pony experiences for kids. Riders can enjoy calm countryside routes with panoramic views over the surrounding mountains. It’s a relaxing way to experience Aley’s natural setting and popular with both locals and weekend visitors from Beirut.
Bhamdoun & Sawfar — Historic Summer Resorts
Bhamdoun and Sawfar are among the most famous traditional summer villages in Mount Lebanon. You’ll find red-roofed villas, old railway stations, and the grand (but abandoned) Sawfar Grand Hotel, once the jewel of Lebanese mountain tourism. Both towns offer cool mountain air, scenic hikes, and heritage charm.
Education & Healthcare in Aley
Aley is a key educational and medical hub in Mount Lebanon, known for its reputable schools, private universities, and well-equipped hospitals that serve both the city and surrounding towns.
Universities in Aley
University of Balamand — Souk El Gharb Campus
The University of Balamand has a campus in Souk el Gharb, just above Aley. Surrounded by pine-covered hills, it offers a peaceful and inspiring setting for students from the central and western parts of the Mount Lebanon Governorate. The campus hosts programs in Sciences, Business, and Arts, and is known for its strong academic standards, student support services, and vibrant extracurricular scene. Many students choose to live in or around Aley due to the short commute, cool climate, and lower housing costs compared to Beirut.
American University of Science and Technology (AUST) — Bhamdoun Branch
This mountain branch of the American University of Science and Technology serves students from the upper Aley area and surrounding villages. It offers programs in Business Administration, Computer Science, and Engineering, following an American-style curriculum in English. The campus enjoys fresh mountain air and panoramic views, making it an attractive option for students seeking a quieter study environment away from the congestion of the coast. Many students also commute from Aley to universities in Beirut due to the short travel time.
Healthcare in Aley
Al Iman Hospital
A well-established private hospital offering a range of services including general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and emergency care, serving communities across western Aley.
Shahar Al Gharbi Hospital
A governmental hospital in Ramhala providing essential healthcare services, including emergency and maternity care, to the central and rural parts of Aley district.
Properties in Aley
Aley's real estate market is growing steadily, driven by its cool climate, green scenery, and proximity to Beirut. The area offers a mix of modern apartments, traditional houses, and land for sale, attracting both locals and expatriates. Demand for apartments for sale in Aley, houses for rent in Aley, and land in Aley keeps rising, making it a sought-after spot for living and investment in Mount Lebanon.
Looking for your next home? Explore all of the available properties in Aley.
