Fez, the capital of Morocco for more than 400 years, has the best preserved medina in North Africa and the tiny winding alleyways, barely wide enough for a donkey, create interest and excitement at every turn. One of Islam's greatest cities, it is also one of Morocco's gems and should not be missed. Remaining almost totally unspoilt, the old city is a maze of alleyways and take you back into the past. Whilst here today you will see the Medrersa Attarine, the mighty Karaouine Mosque, the Nejjarine Fountain. The Heart of Fes is the old city and the magnificent palaces of the Fez el-Bali where you see the Royal Palace, the Mellah and souks in Fes Djedid.
Whilst here also make time to visit Meknes via the Roman ruins at Volubilis. Volubilis is the site of the largest and best preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, particularly noted for its superb mosaic floors. You will also pass through Meknes, a major attraction of the city being the old massive and decorative gate of Bab El Mansour. Visit the Mausoleum of Moualy Ismail once ruler of Morocco in the 17th century and Dar Jamai Museum of Moroccan art.
Listed below are a few our favourite riads in Fez, however there are others to choose from to suit all tastes and budgets.
At Dar Anebar, you will be embraced as one of the family. This was once the home of the Geussous family and was lovingly restored in 2000 by one of the grandchildren of the owners, Abdelhamid and his wife, Nadia.
For those seeking an authentic Moorish residence in the centre of the ancient city, La Maison Bleue and it's sister property, Riad Maison Bleue nearby are unbeatable.
This hotel is set in a wonderful garden of palms, orange and lemon trees. It is located by one of the gateways to the old medina but is a haven of peace and appears to be far away from the noise, hustle and bustle of the city.
Located at the gates to the medina, this Riad has been beautifully restored and converted into a friendly hotel by its owners, a young couple from Fez.
This is a delightful, traditional riad where you will be welcomed with the best of Moroccan hospitality. Huge beds and Moroccan carved furniture dominate the room, some scattered with richly coloured rugs and lanterns.
Riad Fes is an exquisite riad located with in the heart of the medina offering a comfortable hideaway from the busy streets. As you first step into this luxurious world, you will be distracted by the array of mosaic patterns, beautifully carved
Located in the heart of the ancient "Médina" in Fez, one of the most fascinating medieval walled cities of the Arab world, Ryad Mabrouka welcomes you in an authentic and traditional arabo-andalousian setting.
