Fes riads - an authentic Moroccan holiday
Morocco's third largest city is becoming ever more popular, and what better way to get to know the city than renting a Fes holiday apartment or Fes riad? Whether you're holidaying with friends, family, alone, or as a couple, you're guaranteed to have a memorable time here.
You'll find that your Fes riad is the most unique holiday property you've ever lived in, reflecting the character and culture of the region. There's simply so much to see – the best place to start is the medina Fes el Bali. A medina is a market, but unlike anything you can find in Europe; as you make your way through the twisting passages and explore small side streets, you'll find anything from Persian rugs to handmade shoes, from incense burners to school rucksacks, as well as spices, dried fruit, and other local produce. Act like a local: don't forget to haggle!
As you walk through the medina, you will pass by many beautiful medersas, religious schools; if you are with a guide he will point them out to you. Tourists are allowed into the courtyard areas, and the incredibly detailed patterns covering the walls, ceiling and floors will blow you away. In contrast to the detail and finery of the medersas, and the palaces of al Glaoui and el Mokri, but equally fascinating, is the tannery, where cow hides are treated and dyed using ancient methods. It's a rather smelly process, so afterwards we recommend having a bite to eat, perhaps picking up some goods at the market to try your hand at Moroccan cuisine, or even taking a cooking lesson.
Despite the hustle and bustle of the city, a stay in a riad Fes is one of the most relaxing holidays imaginable. If you do need to unwind even further, visit a local hammam for a massage, or a traditional full body scrub.
Meknes and Volubilis
Just a short train ride from your Fes holdiay rental is the ancient imperial city and World Heritage Site of Meknes. The city has a rich history, and, like Fes, the best way to start a trip here is to explore the medina. The city walls are punctuated with gates, the grandest of which, Bab Mansour, is one of Meknes' must sees. Not far from the Bab Mansour is the splendid Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the Warrior King. Meknes is also home to one of Morocco's finest museums, Dar Jamai, a museum of Moroccan art and craftsmanship.
Volubilis, the Roman city, is also not far from Fes and Meknes. Founded in the third century BC by Phoenicians, it was inhabited by Romans and then Moroccans until the 11th century AD. Evidence of all of these civilisations can be seen in the extensive ruins, which include marble, bronze, baths and aqueducts, olive oil production rooms and much more. Simply breathtaking!
You have probably considered, or even already visited, Marrakech and Casablanca, so why not consider going to Rabat too?