Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Morocco: An 11-Day Journey in Moulay Idriss

A Day Trip to Meknes

Today, Aoife and I ventured beyond the familiar landscapes of Moulay Idriss to explore the imperial city of Meknes. After several days of tranquility, we were ready to dive into a place buzzing with history and culture. I was eager to see if Meknes could live up to its reputation as one of Morocco's most significant historical cities. I packed my camera, double-checked we had our sunscreen, and set off with a sense of anticipation. This trip also meant I could continue to practice my French, which, while still a work in progress, has been improving steadily thanks to Aoife's patient tutoring.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Baraka. It was a cozy spot, and I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast. The combination of fresh bread, local honey, and strong coffee was the perfect way to kickstart a day of exploration. Aoife, ever the early bird, had already scoped out the menu and declared the msemen (Moroccan pancakes) to be a must-try. I must admit, she was right; they were absolutely delicious. The friendly atmosphere of La Baraka set a positive tone for our Meknes adventure.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Baraka in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

With our appetites satisfied, we headed towards the heart of Meknes, our first major stop being Dar El-Makhzen, the Royal Palace. Although the palace itself isn't open to the public, the sheer scale and architectural beauty of its exterior were breathtaking. The intricate designs and vibrant tile work spoke volumes about the city's rich history. As an antiques dealer, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and imagine the stories these walls could tell. We spent a good hour wandering around the palace grounds, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere. It's truly a place where you can feel the weight of Moroccan history.


Explore Dar El-Makhzen in Meknes, a stunning royal palace showcasing Morocco's rich history and breathtaking architecture amidst lush gardens.

Exploring Meknes is like stepping back in time, each corner revealing a new layer of Morocco's rich and complex history.

Next on our list was exploring the vibrant Medina of Meknes. The Medina is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The narrow, winding streets were filled with the sounds of vendors hawking their wares, the smells of spices and street food, and the sights of colorful textiles and handcrafted goods. Aoife was particularly excited about the textiles, her eyes darting from one vibrant scarf to another. We haggled for a beautiful rug – a skill Aoife has truly mastered, much to my amusement and benefit. I picked up a few antique trinkets for my shop back in Dublin, always on the lookout for unique items that tell a story.

For lunch, we decided on Volubilis Restaurant, hoping to sample some authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant did not disappoint. We shared a tagine, the rich flavors of the slow-cooked meat and vegetables a testament to the culinary traditions of the region. The tagine was served with couscous, fluffy and light, making for a truly satisfying meal. I enjoyed a glass of local mint tea, the sweetness a perfect complement to the savory tagine. Aoife, always keen to try new things, opted for a harira soup, a traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas. She declared it delicious and perfect for a slightly cooler September afternoon.


Discover Volubilis: A Journey Through Ancient Roman History in Morocco's Enchanting Ruins.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, discovering hidden courtyards and admiring the architecture. The Bab Mansour gate was particularly impressive, a grand entrance to the old city with intricate carvings and imposing presence. We also visited the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a place of reverence and architectural beauty. The peaceful atmosphere inside was a welcome contrast to the bustling Medina. I found myself reflecting on the life and legacy of Moulay Ismail, a powerful ruler who shaped much of Morocco's history.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves at Bar Pegale, a local spot recommended by a fellow traveler. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The bar had a cozy atmosphere, with traditional Moroccan decor and friendly staff. I ordered a local beer, while Aoife chose a glass of Moroccan wine. We chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and laughing about our misadventures navigating the Medina. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. I even managed to practice my French with a friendly local, stumbling over a few words but ultimately getting my point across.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Pegale in Meknes, where local charm meets affordable drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we opted for Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon, drawn in by the promise of traditional Moroccan dishes. The restaurant had a relaxed vibe, and we chose a table on the terrace to enjoy the evening air. I ordered a kefta tagine, while Aoife decided on a vegetarian couscous. Both dishes were delicious, flavorful, and beautifully presented. We lingered over our meal, savoring the last moments of our day trip to Meknes.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the charming ambiance of Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.

As the evening drew to a close, we made our way back to Moulay Idriss, feeling satisfied and enriched by our day in Meknes. The city had indeed lived up to its reputation, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco's imperial past. From the grandeur of Dar El-Makhzen to the vibrant Medina and the delicious local cuisine, Meknes had captivated us both.

Back in our guesthouse in Moulay Idriss, I reflected on the day's adventures. Meknes is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. It’s a place where you can wander through ancient ruins, haggle for treasures in the Medina, and savor the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine. Aoife and I both agreed that it was a day well spent, a highlight of our Moroccan adventure.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our trip, and we plan to spend it soaking in the unique atmosphere of DAR INES MOULAY IDRISS ZERHOUN. We'll enjoy a leisurely breakfast at SCORPION HOUSE, have lunch at Cafe restaurant ain zwawk مقهى و مطعم عين زواوق, and then a farewell dinner at Restaurant Moulay Idriss. It's a bittersweet feeling, knowing that our Moroccan adventure is coming to an end, but I'm also excited to share our final experiences with you all. Stay tuned for one last blog post from the spiritual heart of Morocco!