Anfeh

Anfeh lies on the coast of North Lebanon, 15 km south of Tripoli and 71 km north of Beirut. The two coastal headlands alone give the town a distinctive profile: a singular landscape, a long maritime history and a salt tradition come together here. The distances provide geographic context, while Anfeh’s history and landscape set it apart within the coastal region.

Two coastal headlands, different dimensions

At the southern edge of Anfeh lies Ras al Mleliḥ, a coastal headland covering 10,000 m². Its name means “Cape of the Salt Pans” and points to a local connection with salt, which also features in the town’s history. To the west of Anfeh stretches Ras al-Qalaat: the headland is 400 m long and runs from east to west. These details describe two different formations and locations: for Ras al Mleliḥ, the focus is on its area and position at the southern edge; for Ras al-Qalaat, on its length and orientation. In addition, 27 marine habitats have been identified along Anfeh’s coast. For nature enthusiasts, this specific ecological finding adds to the geographic perspective on the coast.

Salt and maritime history

The story of salt extends beyond the name Ras al Mleliḥ. An article from 2003 describes salt produced in Anfeh being transported to two refineries in the town. The coastal landscape, salt production and processing thus stand side by side as distinct facets of local history. Fishing and commercial fishing were also among the practices of Anfeh’s maritime communities for centuries. These historical accounts tell of a coastal economy that was not limited to a single line of work.

Market, wine and change

The restored market of Anfeh is part of the town’s historic character. The history of production also reflects change: according to UNESCO’s description, wine has been produced in Anfeh since Byzantine times, in the 5th century AD. Under Ottoman rule, olive oil production replaced wine production. Another cultural event took place on 28 March 2026: the Department of Archaeology and Museology at the University of Balamand organised a cultural heritage tour in Anfeh to mark International Water Day, together with the Anfeh and Neighbourhood Heritage Committee and the Municipality of Anfeh.

Tripoli within the wider destination of North Lebanon

Tripoli is also part of the wider destination of North Lebanon, but remains a distinct place with a different historical profile. Among the city’s significant historic landmarks are Madrasa al-Burtasiyya, Khan al-Khayyatin, Hammam al-Jadid, the Mawlawi Tekke and Souq Haraj. Tripoli is also known for food production, particularly sweets. Festivals take place there every year between August and September. The profiles of the two places can therefore be distinguished: Anfeh’s coastal headlands, salt history and maritime tradition sit alongside Tripoli’s historic landmarks, sweet-making tradition and festivals. When choosing a holiday rental, you can consider which of these themes you would like to focus on during your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Dhour Choueir, Dahr Broummana, Aley, Mtolle, Jiyeh, Beit Al Dine, Ḑahr Al Ḩarf, Douma.

For the main travel overview: Lebanon.