Exploring the Historical Charms of Moulay Idriss with Friends

Fez-cinating Finds

Today was all about diving headfirst into the vibrant chaos and captivating beauty of Fes. With my friends in tow, I was ready to embrace every sensory overload and historical marvel this ancient city had to offer. From exploring iconic gates to savoring delicious Moroccan cuisine, and capping it off with a taste of local nightlife, it was a day packed with unforgettable experiences.

Our adventure began with a hearty breakfast at Haytam. Fuelled up with traditional Moroccan fare, we set off to explore the city's famed gates. First stop, Bab Boujloud. This wasn't just any gate; it was the grand entrance to Fes el Bali, the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1913 by the French colonial administration, Bab Boujloud, also known as the Blue Gate, is a relatively new addition, but designed in a way that it seamlessly blends into the traditional Moroccan style. The intricate mosaic tiles shimmered under the morning sun, the outside adorned predominantly in blue, and the inside in green, the color of Islam. It was the perfect spot to observe the daily life of Fes unfolding before our eyes.


Discover the stunning Bab Boujloud, the Blue Gate of Fes, a vibrant entrance to the historic medina filled with culture, history, and local charm.
As we stood there, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the history that permeated every corner of this city. Just beside the Blue Gate, we spotted the original 12th-century gate, deliberately built on a slant to block charging herds from entering. It’s amazing how much history is layered within a few feet of each other.

Next, we ventured towards Khemis Gate. Unlike the bustling Bab Boujloud, Khemis Gate offered a quieter, more contemplative experience. As we approached, the intricate details of the gate became more apparent, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship that defines Moroccan architecture. The gate is located in the northern/northeastern corner of the city walls and dates back to around 1126 CE. I learned that the name el-Khemis refers to the souk, or open-air market, that historically took place here every Thursday. Although the market now operates almost all week, the name has stuck, a testament to the enduring power of tradition.


Discover the historical marvel of Khemis Gate in Meknes, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and a gateway to the city's rich cultural heritage.
Strolling around the gate, we found ourselves drawn into the lively atmosphere of the market. Vendors hawked their wares, from colorful textiles and handcrafted leather goods to fragrant spices and fresh produce. The air was thick with the aroma of grilling meats and sweet pastries, a tantalizing invitation to indulge in the local cuisine.

Some doors are only opened from the inside.

For lunch, we stopped at Cafe Restaurant Ksar Pharaon. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was just what we needed after a morning of exploring. As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments so far, Lena's laughter echoing through the restaurant as she recounted a particularly amusing encounter with a street vendor. I made sure to try a tagine, slow-cooked and bursting with flavors of cinnamon, ginger and saffron. It was the perfect midday pick-me-up, and the mint tea that followed was a refreshing treat. It was the perfect way to recharge before our next adventure.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the charming ambiance of Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore a bit of Fes's nightlife. La Colombe Blanche was our chosen spot, a bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. We sipped on local drinks, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of Moroccan music. It was a far cry from the tango bars of Buenos Aires, but it had a charm all its own. I even managed to pick up a few Arabic phrases from a friendly local, much to the amusement of my friends. Lena, of course, was in her element, chatting with everyone and soaking in the local culture.


Discover the charm of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun at La Colombe Blanche, where tradition meets comfort in an unforgettable Moroccan guest house experience.
As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared. Fes had truly captured our hearts, its vibrant energy and rich history leaving an indelible mark on our souls. I thought about Mateo, and how he would have loved running around the markets, haggling for souvenirs and trying all the different foods. I made a mental note to bring him here someday, to share this magical place with my son.

Dinner at SCORPION HOUSE was the perfect end to a perfect day. Perched high on a hillside, the views of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun were simply breathtaking. As we savored our meal, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The town below twinkled with lights, creating a magical atmosphere that was both serene and captivating. The restaurant is owned by Mike Richardson, also the proprietor of Cafe Clock in Fes, and is known for its personalized dining experiences. The unique setting and the delicious food made it a memorable conclusion to our day in Fes.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Scorpion House in Moulay Idriss - a hidden gem serving delightful lunches amidst rich cultural heritage.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore DAR INES MOULAY IDRISS ZERHOUN and Place Moulay Hassan. I've heard that DAR INES is a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan architecture, and I'm eager to see it for myself. As for Place Moulay Hassan, I'm hoping to soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps find some unique souvenirs to take home. We’ll also have breakfast at Al Andaloussiya Diyafa, lunch at Grillade Albanna, and dinner at Volubilis. A stop at The Anou Cooperative is also in the cards, to check out local crafts.

Quote of the day:

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

Fes has been more than just a place to visit; it's been an experience that has shifted my perspective, deepened my appreciation for different cultures, and created memories that will last a lifetime. And to think, this is only day seven of our Moroccan adventure! I can't wait to see what the rest of the trip holds.

With the sun setting over the ancient city, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Morocco, with its vibrant culture and captivating landscapes, had already exceeded all my expectations. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that tomorrow would bring even more adventures, more discoveries, and more unforgettable memories.

The day was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, a true immersion into the heart of Moroccan culture. From the grandeur of Bab Boujloud and Khemis Gate to the delicious tagines and mint tea, every moment was a feast for the senses. And as I reflected on the day's adventures, I realized that it wasn't just the places we visited that made the experience so special, but the people we shared it with. My friends, with their laughter and camaraderie, had transformed a simple day of sightseeing into an unforgettable journey. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow would bring even more adventures, more discoveries, and more unforgettable memories.

Now, as I sit here writing this blog, I'm already excited for what tomorrow holds. But for now, it's time to rest, recharge, and dream of the magical city of Fes.

What a day! What a city! What a trip!

Until tomorrow,

Carlos.