Exploring the Heart of Morocco: A Journey to Moulay Idriss

Arrival in the Sacred City

After months of anticipation, Olivia and I finally arrived in Moulay Idriss, a town that holds a special place in Morocco's history and spiritual heart. The journey here was an experience in itself, trading the bustling streets of Toronto for the serene, rolling hills that cradle this ancient city. I'm eager to share our first day, filled with unexpected discoveries and the warm embrace of Moroccan hospitality.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at SCORPION HOUSE. The morning air was crisp and carried the scent of mint tea, a staple here, setting the tone for a day of exploration. Energized, we set out to explore the famed Haroune Aqueduct.


Explore the Haroune Aqueduct, a stunning historical landmark in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, showcasing ancient engineering and breathtaking landscapes.

The aqueduct, initially thought to be Roman, was actually constructed in the early 20th century by Sultan Moulay Abdel Aziz to transport water from the Ain Chanch spring. It's an impressive structure, with its arches straddling the valley, a testament to ancient engineering. As we walked along the trails that crisscross the valley, we saw shepherds guiding their livestock and farmers carrying produce, a scene that felt timeless.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that lead us off the beaten path, where the echoes of history resonate in every stone and smile.

Next, we ventured into the heart of Moulay Idriss Downtown.


Experience the rich history and spiritual essence of Moulay Idriss Downtown, Morocco's sacred town nestled in the stunning hills of Zerhoun.

The medina was a maze of narrow streets, each corner revealing a new sensory experience. The sounds of artisans at work, the vibrant colors of the shops, and the aroma of spices filled the air. We paused to admire the vintage wooden doors and the intricate details of the old buildings, feeling as though we had stepped back in time.

One of the highlights was finding a small terrasse offering a panoramic view of the mosque. The Small Terasse provided an extraordinary vantage point overlooking the majestic mosque.


Discover tranquility at the Small Terrasse with breathtaking views of the mosque in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, a serene escape for every traveler.

From there, the town unfolded before us, a tapestry of rooftops and winding alleyways, all watched over by the green-tiled roof of the mosque. The serenity of the scene was captivating, a perfect moment to soak in the spiritual ambiance of Moulay Idriss.

In the afternoon, we visited The Anou Cooperative, a shop I had read about that supports local artisans.


Explore The Anou Cooperative in Fès for a unique shopping experience that supports local artisans and celebrates Moroccan craftsmanship.

It’s an artisan-led e-commerce platform enabling hundreds of Moroccan artisans to overcome the barriers that have traditionally held them out of the global marketplace. I was particularly interested in seeing the traditional crafts and supporting the local community. Olivia, with her keen eye for design, was in her element, admiring the intricate patterns and craftsmanship. We ended up buying a beautiful rug, handwoven with Berber designs, a piece that will surely remind us of our time here.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Moulay Idriss, a local favorite.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Moulay Idriss in Fes El Bali - a true culinary gem for travelers seeking local flavors.

I opted for a tagine, while Olivia chose couscous, both bursting with flavor and spices. It was a delightful culinary experience, a true taste of Morocco.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at La Baraka for dinner.


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

The restaurant was alive with the sounds of locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the delicious food and lively atmosphere. Over dinner, Olivia and I recounted our favorite moments of the day, already feeling a deep connection to this place.

Before heading back, we took a stroll through the main square. The square was bustling with activity, shops, and people. The atmosphere was electric.

Today was a day of firsts, a day of immersion into a culture so different from our own. As I write this, I can still smell the spices, hear the calls to prayer, and feel the warmth of the Moroccan sun on my skin. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the Tomb of Moulay Idriss Ier. I can't wait to see what other treasures this region holds. Good night from Morocco!

The call to prayer echoes softly in the distance as I reflect on our first day in Moulay Idriss. It’s a sound that encapsulates the essence of this sacred town, a blend of history, spirituality, and vibrant culture. Olivia and I are both eager for what tomorrow holds, another day to explore the heart of Morocco.

I forgot to pack my sun hat, which was a rookie mistake. I also realized I should have gotten a local SIM card at the airport in Casablanca. Note to self for future trips!