Situated about 22 kilometers southwest of Chtaura and just west of Qaraoun village, the huge Qaraoun lake was created by the erection of the Litani River Dam in 1959 and provides electricity and irrigation to the area.
Although the lake is not for swimming, boats can take you around in summer or you can enjoy the spectacular views in one of the fresh fish restaurants located on the western side of the lake. If you wish to spend the night there, the Macharef Saghbine Hotel in Saghbine (+961 (0)8 671 200) offers good rooms, great views and a swimming pool.
To reach the lake from Chtaura, take the road toward Beirut and after about one kilometer turn left in the direction of Mashghara. From there, follow the road toward Kefraya and Saghbine. After about two and a half kilometers (just before Bab Maraa), take a left to reach the actual lake. Coming from Beirut, the right turn toward Mashghara can be found about 500 meters after the left sign to Jdita. Duration: 1 hr.