Exploring the Historical Charms of Moulay Idriss with Friends

Whispers of History in the Hills

Today was a day of wandering through time, exploring the ancient hills and hidden corners of the Moulay Idriss region. With my friends in tow, I set out to uncover the stories etched into the landscape, from the bustling markets to the quiet, contemplative Kasbahs. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to feel the pulse of history beneath my feet and share those moments with the people I care about.

Our day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Haytam. The aromas of mint tea and freshly baked bread filled the air, a perfect start to fuel our adventures. The restaurant was cozy, filled with locals and a few other travelers, all eager to start their day in this historic region. After polishing off the last of my bread, we set off towards Zerhoun.


Discover the enchanting Zerhoun Mountain Peak in Morocco, a blend of breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage for every traveler.
Zerhoun, a mountain just north of Meknes, is more than just a geographical landmark; it's a place steeped in history and spirituality. As we drove closer, the views became increasingly stunning. The town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is spread over two hills at the base of Mount Zerhoun, creating a breathtaking panorama. The town is named after Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, who is buried here. This makes the town one of the most sacred places in Morocco.

We spent the morning exploring Zerhoun, wandering through its narrow streets and soaking in the atmosphere. The town has a unique charm, with its whitewashed buildings clinging to the hillside. It felt like stepping back in time, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Berlin. I couldn't help but think of Lena and Mateo, imagining their excitement at discovering such a magical place. I made a mental note to bring them back someday, to share this experience with my family.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them, feeling the history and culture seep into your soul.

One of the highlights of Zerhoun was visiting the Zawiya of Moulay Idris I, a religious complex containing the tomb of Idris I. Although non-Muslims can't enter the shrine itself, the architecture and decorations were stunning. It was easy to understand why this place is of such profound significance to Moroccans. The spiritual energy was palpable, a testament to the enduring legacy of Moulay Idriss I.

After a morning of exploring Zerhoun, we drove to Kasabah Senhaji.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Kasabah Senhaji, your perfect retreat in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, surrounded by cultural richness and scenic beauty.
This kasbah, or traditional Moroccan hotel, offered a tranquil retreat from the day's adventures. The architecture was stunning, with intricate details and a sense of timelessness.

Kasabah Senhaji is more than just a hotel; it's an experience. The interiors are decorated with local crafts, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. As we walked through the halls, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. It was the perfect place to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch at La Baraka, a restaurant that embodies the essence of Moroccan cuisine.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Baraka in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
The tagine was particularly delicious, a flavorful blend of spices and tender meat that left me wanting more. As a chef, I always appreciate the opportunity to taste authentic, local dishes, and La Baraka did not disappoint.

In the afternoon, we explored the Kasabah itself, wandering through its gardens and courtyards. The views from the Kasabah were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of this place. Photography has always been a passion of mine, a way to preserve memories and share them with others.

Before dinner, we took a stroll to زيارة باب مولاي إدريس, a local shop.


Explore the captivating antique store in Moulay Idriss for a unique glimpse into Morocco's rich history and culture.
The shop was filled with traditional Moroccan goods, from spices and teas to handicrafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small gifts for Lena and Mateo, tokens of our adventures in this magical land. I couldn't resist buying some spices for myself, eager to recreate the flavors of Morocco in my own kitchen back in Berlin.

For dinner, we decided to try Roman City.


Discover the rich flavors of Morocco at Roman City, where culinary traditions meet warm hospitality in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
The restaurant had a charming ambiance, with a cozy interior and friendly staff. The menu featured a variety of Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes, and we all ordered something different, eager to sample the diverse flavors. My vegetable tagine was delicious, a flavorful and satisfying end to a long day. The others enjoyed their meals as well, and we lingered over tea, sharing stories and laughter.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our accommodation, our hearts full of the day's experiences. The sky was ablaze with color, a fitting end to a day of discovery. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this region with my friends, to share in its history and beauty. It's moments like these that make life worth living, that remind me of the importance of travel and connection.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and Bab Rmila Natural Park in Meknes. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, what new stories we will uncover. Until then, I'll savor the memories of today, the whispers of history in the hills of Zerhoun and the serene beauty of Kasabah Senhaji.

I am also looking forward to trying out SCORPION HOUSE for breakfast, Cafe Restaurant Ksar Pharaon for lunch, and Al Andaloussiya Diyafa for dinner. It's always exciting to experience new culinary delights, and I'm eager to see what these restaurants have to offer. We might even check out La Colombe Blanche, a local bar, for a relaxing evening drink.

As I close my eyes tonight, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and anticipation. Morocco has a way of capturing your heart, of leaving you wanting more. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, what new adventures await us in this magical land.

The trip has been incredible so far, even though I did forget my portable phone charger and sunglasses. Luckily, my friends are always prepared, and I've been able to borrow theirs. It's a good reminder to always double-check my packing list before leaving for a trip. But even with those minor mishaps, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. The beauty of Morocco, the warmth of its people, and the shared moments with my friends have made this a journey to remember. I can't wait to share more stories and photos with you all as our adventure continues.

Traveling through Morocco is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The vibrant colors, the fragrant spices, the sounds of the bustling markets – it all combines to create an unforgettable experience. And as we continue our journey, I'm reminded of why I started this blog in the first place: to share these experiences with you, to inspire you to explore the world and discover its hidden gems. So stay tuned for more updates from our Moroccan adventure. There are still so many stories to tell, so many places to explore, and so many flavors to savor. Until next time, happy travels!

The kindness of the Moroccan people has been especially touching. Their hospitality and warmth have made us feel welcome and at home. From the friendly vendors in the markets to the helpful staff at our accommodations, everyone has gone out of their way to make our trip special. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with new people and experiencing different cultures. These interactions have enriched our journey in ways I couldn't have imagined, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn from and connect with the people of Morocco.

As I reflect on today's journey through Zerhoun and Kasabah Senhaji, I'm reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the small moments. It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of travel, rushing from one attraction to the next, but it's in the quiet moments – a shared meal, a breathtaking view, a chance encounter with a local – that the true magic of travel lies. These are the moments that stay with you long after you've returned home, the moments that shape your perspective and enrich your life. So as we continue our adventure, I'll make sure to take the time to savor these moments, to fully immerse myself in the experience, and to share them with you all.

I'm also struck by the contrast between the ancient and the modern in Morocco. Here, you can wander through Roman ruins one day and explore bustling modern cities the next. This blend of old and new creates a unique and fascinating atmosphere, one that is both captivating and thought-provoking. It's a reminder that history is not just something to be studied in books, but something that is alive and present in our everyday lives. And as we continue our journey, I'm eager to explore more of these contrasts, to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture and history.

And let's not forget the food! As a chef, I'm always excited to try new dishes and flavors, and Morocco has not disappointed. From the tagines and couscous to the pastries and mint tea, every meal has been a culinary adventure. The spices are so fragrant, the ingredients so fresh, and the flavors so bold. I've been taking notes on everything I've tasted, eager to recreate these dishes in my own kitchen back in Berlin. I can't wait to share some of these recipes with you all, so you can experience the flavors of Morocco for yourselves. So stay tuned for some delicious Moroccan-inspired recipes coming soon to Tango & Travel!

Finally, I want to thank you all for following along on our Moroccan adventure. Your comments and messages have been so encouraging, and it means the world to me to know that you're enjoying our journey. I hope that our stories and photos are inspiring you to explore the world and discover its hidden gems. And if you ever have the chance to visit Morocco, I highly recommend it. It's a country that will capture your heart and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So thank you again for being a part of our adventure, and I can't wait to share more with you soon. Until next time, happy travels!