Situated near Mdayrej and the peak of Dahr el Baydar, a former popular ski centre, Sawfar is 27 km from Beirut in the district of Aley, with an average elevation of 1300 m above sea level.

In 1890, the Sawfar Municipality was founded, led by the well-known Beirutian families of Daouk, Beyham, Salam, Sabargh, Trad, Sursock, and Nakkache.

Distinguished by its elevated location atop the mountain and the surrounding valleys, Sawfar emerged as a preferred summer retreat for upper-class individuals.

The Haute Bourgeoisie of Beirut were drawn to the area by its easy access and breathtaking landscape overlooking the Lamartine Valley, and they constructed opulent houses there.

The Grand Sawfar Hotel and the railway line were built in 1885, respectively, and these developments spurred business growth and made the town a well-liked vacation spot.

2018 saw the Grand Sawfar Hotel reopen as a location for art exhibitions after serving as a preferred travel destination for royals and dignitaries from 1892 to 1975.

[2] It is truly a village of four splendid seasons, attracting visitors all year round, whether for its cool, refreshing summer breezes, or the sheer beauty of fluffy white snow flakes on its tree-lined streets and icicles dripping from turn-of-the-century eaves.