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

A Day of Discovery and Reflection

Today, Aoife and I embarked on a journey that took us from the serene heights of Zerhoun to the bustling heart of Fez, a day filled with historical insights and vibrant cultural experiences. It’s days like these that remind me why I love travel so much – the chance to immerse oneself in a new world, to learn and reflect, and to share those experiences with you all.


Discover the enchanting Zerhoun Mountain Peak in Morocco, a blend of breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage for every traveler.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Al Andaloussiya Diyafa. Fuelled up with traditional Moroccan fare, we set off to explore Zerhoun. The crisp morning air and the promise of panoramic views made the drive all the more exciting. Zerhoun, a mountain north of Meknes, holds a special place in Moroccan history. It's not just a geographical landmark but also a spiritual one, home to the town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, named after Moulay Idris I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty. He sought refuge here in the late 8th century, fleeing persecution and eventually establishing Morocco's first Islamic state.

Walking through Zerhoun, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence. The town itself is a maze of stairs clinging to the hillside, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Aoife and I paused frequently, cameras in hand, trying to capture the essence of this holy city. The white-washed buildings, typical of the region, stood in stark contrast to the vibrant green of the surrounding olive groves. The air was filled with the scent of olives, a testament to the region's long-standing tradition of olive oil production.

We learned that Moulay Idriss Zerhoun had been off-limits to non-Muslims until 2005, adding to its mystique. Even now, it retains its character as a holy city, a place where faith and history intertwine. The mausoleum of Moulay Idriss I is a central point of pilgrimage, though, sadly, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter. However, we were able to admire its green-tiled minaret from a distance, a striking feature against the backdrop of the town.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of Zerhoun, we drove towards Fez, eager to experience the vibrant energy of this ancient city. Our destination was Bab Boujloud, the iconic Blue Gate that serves as the main entrance to Fes el-Bali, the city's old medina. As we approached the gate, the throngs of people, the cacophony of sounds, and the explosion of colors were a stark contrast to the tranquility of Zerhoun.


Discover the stunning Bab Boujloud, the Blue Gate of Fes, a vibrant entrance to the historic medina filled with culture, history, and local charm.

Bab Boujloud is more than just a gate; it's a symbol of Fez. Built in 1913 during the French colonial period, it replaced an older gate and has since become one of Morocco's most famous gateways. The gate is adorned with glittering mosaic tiles, blue on the outside (the color of Fez) and green on the inside (the color of Islam).

Stepping through Bab Boujloud was like stepping back in time. The Fez medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling souks, and ancient buildings. We wandered through the maze, getting delightfully lost in the sensory overload. The smells of spices, the sounds of craftsmen at work, and the sight of colorful fabrics and ceramics were intoxicating.

We paused for lunch at a restaurant near Volubilis, savoring traditional Moroccan dishes while reflecting on the day's adventures. The tagine was particularly delicious, a flavorful blend of meat, vegetables, and spices cooked in a traditional clay pot.


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

Later in the evening, we treated ourselves to dinner at La Baraka. The ambiance was perfect, a blend of traditional Moroccan charm and modern comfort. Over a delicious meal, Aoife and I recounted our favorite moments of the day – the panoramic views from Zerhoun, the vibrant energy of Bab Boujloud, and the simple pleasure of getting lost in the Fez medina.


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

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we stopped by Dar Zerhoune, a local bar known for its convivial atmosphere. Sipping on mint tea, we watched as locals and tourists mingled, sharing stories and laughter. It was the perfect end to a day of discovery and reflection.


Experience the essence of Moroccan culture and hospitality at Dar Zerhoune, your home away from home in Moulay Idriss.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. From the spiritual heights of Zerhoun to the ancient gates of Fez, Morocco continues to surprise and delight us at every turn.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bassin Souani and Khemis Gate in Meknes. I am particularly excited to see Bassin Souani, as I read it was built in the 17th century as a water reservoir and granary. I'm looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all soon.

For those planning a trip to this region, remember to pack comfortable walking shoes, a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and an open mind ready to embrace the unexpected. Morocco is a country of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern life, and where every corner holds a new surprise.

The memories of today will stay with me long after we leave Morocco. The quiet reverence of Zerhoun and the vibrant chaos of Fez have both left an indelible mark on my soul. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new perspectives and connecting with different cultures.

And as we continue our journey through this beautiful country, I am excited to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, happy travels!