Dar Zerhoune in Moulay Idriss

Take one mountainside house in a charming village medina, add lots of light and a flash of artistic flair, and you get a superb retreat that's ideal for a break away from the imperial cities of Fez and Meknes.

While in Moulay Idriss, The View from Fez was invited to preview Dar Zerhoune, the new hotel that's the brainchild of Rose Button and Mike Richardson of Cafe Clock. High up on the hill, the house has stupendous views across the mountains, the plains around Volubilis, and down to the river.

Relaxing on the terrace and gazing
across the valley is highly therapeutic.

The bedrooms are well-equipped to sleep three or four people, there's a comfortable sitting room, and meals are available. Prices are extremely reasonable - a dorm room is Dh180 per person per night and a double with en suite bathroom is Dh450, including a delicious Moroccan breakfast. You'll be well looked after by Faisal and his father.

The hotel is light and airy.

The house is full of interesting Moroccan design features

Maybe the greatest pleasure was to sit on the terrace in the sunset, watching the changing colours of the houses as the sun set far across the plain beyond Volubilis.

Look after yourself!

Moulay Idriss can be very hot in summer. Drink plenty of water, wear a hat, cover your arms and take some sun screen. This is especially inportant if you are visiting Volubilis as well.

The Details:

Getting there.
Take the train from Fez and get off at the 2nd stop in Meknes. (ticket 52 dirham for 1st class). Take a small taxi to grands taxis station. Ask for Moulay Idriss. Cost for two people is 60 dirhams or if you share it - 10 dirhams per person.

In Moulay Idriss, leave the taxi and walk up the hill to the main square. Here you will find cafes and down one particular side street a lot of small street restaurants that serve good cheap food.

At the top of the square are steps leading to the Moulay Idriss Mausoleum, which on Muslims may enter. However you can take the stairs at the side of the entrance way and climb to the top of the city for a fabulous panoramic view.

Staying:
Staying overnight and using Moulay Idriss as a base for visiting Volubilis is recommended. Book in advance +212 (0)618108175.

Visit Dar Zerhoune at www.buttonsinn.com or book through Fez Riads

Tags: Moroccan Morocco Fes, Maghreb news