Exploring the Mystique of Moulay Idriss: A Moroccan Adventure

Whispers of the Past, Visions of Today

Today, Moulay Idriss whispered stories of ancient ingenuity and offered vistas that painted the soul. It was a day of gentle exploration, savoring the town's unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. I found myself reflecting on the simple joys of travel: a shared meal, a stunning view, and the quiet contemplation of history.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at SCORPION HOUSE. The name itself is intriguing, isn't it? I learned that in some cultures, the scorpion symbolizes protection and healing. Mike Richardson, the owner, created the terraces and gardens of Scorpion House as the perfect location for contemplating this spiritual heartland of Morocco. The climb up the narrow, stair-like medina streets was worth it for the unbeatable views overlooking Moulay Idriss. As the first non-Moroccan to buy property in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, Mike Richardson might have had qualms. But, he assured us, the locals welcomed him to town. Sipping on mint tea, I felt a world away from my cooking class in Hannover, yet connected to the universal joy of a good meal with a view. I made a mental note to try and recreate the Moroccan mint tea when I get back to Germany, perhaps adding a German twist.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Scorpion House in Moulay Idriss - a hidden gem serving delightful lunches amidst rich cultural heritage.

Some doors are only opened from the inside.

Fueled by breakfast and anticipation, Hans and I set out to explore the Haroune Aqueduct. The aqueduct is also known as the Roman aqueduct, though it's not that old. Many people believe it to be of Roman origin, but in reality, it is not. This remarkable structure, with its elegant stone arches, was built in the early 20th century by Moulay Abdel Aziz to supply water to Moulay Idriss from the Ain Chanch spring. It's a testament to how effective this technology from thousands of years ago still is. As we walked along the trails crisscrossing the Oued Lkhammane, I imagined the countless people who had walked this path before us. The aqueduct stands as a reminder of human ingenuity and the enduring quest to harness the resources of the land. I couldn't help but compare it to the modern engineering marvels Hans works on, each serving the same fundamental purpose: to improve people's lives.


Discover the Haroune Aqueduct in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, a historical marvel showcasing ancient engineering against stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we ventured to Haytam, a restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality. The aroma of spices filled the air as we stepped inside, and the vibrant decor immediately transported us deeper into the heart of Moroccan culture. We savored a tagine, the tender lamb infused with the rich flavors of cinnamon, saffron, and ginger. It was a culinary journey, each bite telling a story of generations past. The lamb tagine is a local favorite and truly embodies Moroccan flavors. I must admit, it rivaled some of my own Thai curries in complexity and depth of flavor. I even picked up a few tips from the chef, hoping to incorporate them into my cooking classes back home. I am definitely going to try the lamb tagine.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Haytam in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - a hidden gem for food lovers seeking traditional delights.

In the afternoon, we sought out the Small Terasse for a view of the mosque. The lofty medina vantage points provide stunning views over Moulay Idriss and the green-roofed mausoleum. As the town straddles across a pair of hills, there are dozens of lookouts bestowed with spectacular views of the old medina's patchwork of houses, mosques and alleyways. The Grande Terrasse is broader and better for capturing panoramic vistas of the hilltop town and surrounding landscape on camera. The view was breathtaking, a panorama of whitewashed houses cascading down the hillside, punctuated by the green-tiled roof of the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss. The Cylindrical Minaret is covered in pretty green zellige (colourful geometric mosaic. It was a moment of serene beauty, a reminder of the spiritual heart of this town. I closed my eyes, listening to the call to prayer echoing through the valley, feeling a sense of peace wash over me.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Grillade Albanna for dinner. The restaurant features takeaway and a beautiful view. If you want to remember Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, come to this restaurant first. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats and traditional Moroccan salads, savoring the flavors of the region as the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery hues. The distinct aromas wafting from the kitchen are a testament to the skill and passion of the chefs, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the way the grill was constructed, while I was more interested in the spices used to marinate the meat. Trying nicely cooked kefta.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Grillade Albanna in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

Our day concluded with a visit to La Colombe Blanche, a charming bar just a short walk from La Place Mohamed. La Colombe Blanche is a 5 minute walk from La Place Mohamed. We sipped on local wine, reflecting on the day's adventures and sharing stories with fellow travelers. The bar had a cozy atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. I felt a sense of camaraderie with the other patrons, a shared appreciation for the beauty and culture of Moulay Idriss.


Discover the charm of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun at La Colombe Blanche, where tradition meets comfort in an unforgettable Moroccan guest house experience.

As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to explore the Moulay Idriss Downtown and visit the Tombeau de Moulay Idriss 1er. I am excited to immerse ourselves further in the town's rich history and spiritual heritage. We'll also be having breakfast at Roman City, lunch at La Baraka, and dinner at Al Andaloussiya Diyafa. And, of course, I'm eager to do some shopping at قيصرية مولاي ادريس. It will be our last day in Moulay Idriss, so we want to make the most of it.

This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the power of travel to open our minds and hearts. Sharing these experiences with Hans makes it even more special. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore new cultures, taste new flavors, and connect with people from all walks of life. And I'm excited to share these stories with you, my readers, hoping to inspire you to embark on your own adventures.

The experience starts with the setting: an unbeatable location high above Moulay Idriss, with a view that stretches for kilometers in several directions.