Outside Fez

Most guests find they need to escape the intensity of the Medina for at least a day during their stay in Fez. Traditionally trips to Meknes, Volubilis, and the cedar forests near Ifrane have been the excursions of choice. However, it is now possible to visit an award winning winery, learn to make couscous in a traditional village, swim in a freshwater lake, or watch the sunset from Mount Zalagh.

Please contact us if you require further information and we can ensure reservations are made prior to your arrival at DAR 47.

Meknes:
Meknes was the capital of Morocco under the reign of Moulay Ismail (1672-1727) before it was relocated to Rabat. Sights not to be missed include the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail (one of the very few religious buildings you are allowed to enter in Morocco), the Royal Granaries (Dar el Ma) and Medersa Bou Inania.

Volubilis:
UNESCO World Heritage site dating from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. The ruins are well-regarded for the number of original and very impressive mosaics that are still in situ.

Moulay Idriss:
A small whitewashed town, scenically nestled in a fold of the Rif Mountains and visible from the ancient ruins of nearby Volubulis. Named after the man who brought Islam to Morocco, Moulay Idriss is considered the holiest town in Morocco.

Ifrane & Azrou:
Particularly recommended during the springtime when the flowers are in abundance. Ifrane has a remarkable European style, as if it were an Alpine village – the town experiences snow during the winter months and a cool climate during the summer. The view from the road linking Ifrane and Azrou is spectacular and you’ll drive through cedar forests where you can see monkeys. Azrou, a Berber mountain town, is famous for its carpets.

Other suggestions:
Sefrou – a Berber town 30 km. from Fes; pleasant medina and mellah.
Taza – a pleasant town to the east of Fez. Nearby Taza is the Gouffre du Friouato, the deepest cavern in North Africa.