Exploring the Historic Charms of Moulay Idriss

A Day of Discovery and Delight

Today was a blend of natural beauty and culinary adventures here in the Moulay Idriss Region. Hans and I set out to explore more of what this area has to offer, and it turned out to be a day filled with unexpected pleasures and serene moments. From the tranquil landscapes of Bab Rmila Natural Park, a stunning nature preserve offering lush greenery, serene paths, and a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, to the authentic flavors of local cuisine, every moment was a delightful experience.


Explore Bab Rmila Natural Park in Meknès, a stunning nature preserve offering lush greenery, serene paths, and a sanctuary for diverse wildlife.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Baraka. Knowing we had a day of exploring ahead, I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with freshly baked bread, local honey, and strong, aromatic coffee. Hans, ever the enthusiast for local flavors, tried the msemen, a flaky pancake that he absolutely loved. Fuelled up and ready to go, we set off towards Bab Rmila Natural Park.


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

The drive to Bab Rmila was scenic, with rolling hills and olive groves dotting the landscape. I couldn’t help but reflect on how different this was from the bustling streets of Berlin. The air here felt cleaner, crisper, and the September sun cast a golden glow over everything. It was a perfect day for a nature walk. As we approached the park, the landscape transformed into a lush, green expanse, a welcome sight after the more arid terrain we had been travelling through.

Bab Rmila Natural Park is a true hidden gem. As we stepped out of the taxi, the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves enveloped us, creating an immediate sense of calm. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, and I was eager to see what we could discover. We followed one of the well-maintained walking trails, winding our way through the greenery. The park was indeed a haven of biodiversity; we spotted various native plants and trees, each adding to the park's charm.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the park, taking our time to appreciate the natural beauty around us. I took several photographs, trying to capture the essence of this tranquil place. Hans, with his keen eye for detail, was busy identifying different bird species, a hobby he’s always enjoyed since childhood. We even found a quiet spot to sit and meditate, letting the peaceful ambiance wash over us. It was a refreshing break from our usual routines, and I felt a deep sense of connection with nature.

After our rejuvenating experience at Bab Rmila, we decided to explore Kasabah Senhaji, a charming spot known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. The Kasabah offered a glimpse into the local life and history of the region. Though we admired it from the outside, we decided to keep moving, eager to experience more of what Moulay Idriss had to offer.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Kasabah Senhaji, your perfect retreat in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, surrounded by cultural richness and scenic beauty.

By lunchtime, we were both quite hungry, so we headed to Cafe restaurant ain zwawk مقهى و مطعم عين زواوق, a local eatery recommended by a friendly shopkeeper. The café was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the aroma of Moroccan spices filled the air. We ordered a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew, and some refreshing mint tea. The tagine was rich and flavorful, the meat tender and succulent, and the vegetables perfectly cooked. It was a true taste of Morocco, and we savored every bite.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Ain Zwawk in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - where culinary traditions meet breathtaking views.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at Cafe machhour. This charming café offered a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Moulay Idriss. I ordered a coffee, while Hans opted for another glass of mint tea. As we sat there, watching the locals go about their day, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me.


Experience the rich flavors of Morocco at Cafe Machhour in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, where authentic cuisine meets a warm local atmosphere.

As evening approached, we made our way to SCORPION HOUSE for dinner. This restaurant, perched high on a hillside, offered panoramic views of Moulay Idriss and the surrounding hills. The setting was magical, with the town’s lights twinkling below and the distant ruins of Volubilis adding to the mystique.


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

The climb up to Scorpion House was quite the experience, navigating through narrow, winding streets that were more like staircases. But the view, as promised, was absolutely worth the effort. Mike Richardson, the owner, has created a truly special place here.

We enjoyed a delightful meal of Moroccan salads, each a burst of flavor, followed by a perfectly cooked tagine. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was both elegant and welcoming. As we dined, we watched the sunset over the hills, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. It was a truly unforgettable experience.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these moments of discovery and connection. Whether it’s exploring a serene natural park or savoring the flavors of local cuisine, each experience adds a new layer to our understanding of the world. It’s these moments that make travel so enriching and worthwhile.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and Dar El-Makhzen in Meknes. I am particularly excited about the mausoleum, as it represents such a significant part of Moroccan history and culture. Hans is looking forward to exploring Dar El-Makhzen, the historic palace, and capturing its architectural beauty through his photography. We also intend to visit قيسارية مولاي ادريس, a local shop, to experience the local crafts and maybe pick up a few souvenirs. I am also excited about trying the local cuisine at Haytam for breakfast and Grillade Albanna for lunch, and returning to La Baraka for dinner.

As I sit here, writing in my travel journal, I feel grateful for the experiences of today and excited about what tomorrow will bring. This trip to the Moulay Idriss Region has already exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to see what other treasures await us.

Before I turn in for the night, I must remember to charge my portable phone charger. It completely slipped my mind today, and I nearly ran out of battery while taking photos at Bab Rmila Natural Park. It’s a small thing, but definitely essential for a travel blogger like me!

Good night from Moulay Idriss! I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you tomorrow.