Meknes Uncovered: Exploring Morocco's Hidden Imperial Gem
- Margaux Delang
- 3 okt 2024
- 5 minuten om te lezen
Bijgewerkt op: 7 okt 2024
Nestled in northern Morocco, Meknès often flies under the radar compared to its more famous counterparts, Marrakech and Fes. Yet, this imperial city is brimming with historical richness and cultural treasures that make it a must-visit destination. With its intricate city walls, grand gates, and an old town that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Meknès holds a unique charm.
One of the city's standout features is the Bab Mansour gate, considered one of the finest gates in Morocco, with its grand arches and intricate mosaic tilework. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, another major landmark, is a testament to the grandeur of Morocco’s Alaouite dynasty. This mausoleum, resting place of the city’s founder and the Sultan who made Meknès his capital, is an iconic symbol of the city’s royal history.
Meknès' medina is an authentic experience, alive with vibrant souks, where merchants sell everything from traditional Moroccan textiles and spices to handcrafted pottery and leather goods. Strolling through the narrow alleys, visitors are transported back in time as they witness local artisans at work and can experience the sights, sounds, and aromas of daily life in Meknès.
But Meknès is not just about its imperial past. The city is surrounded by lush vineyards and fertile farmland, offering a beautiful contrast to its historical sites. Wine enthusiasts can explore the vineyards around the city, while nature lovers will appreciate the peaceful countryside. Meknès also provides easy access to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in North Africa, adding another layer of fascination for history lovers.
With its mix of historical grandeur, bustling medinas, and picturesque surroundings, Meknès offers a quieter yet equally enriching experience for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Morocco. Whether you're intrigued by its history or drawn to its natural beauty, Meknès promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Moroccan culture.
Food
Dining at Black Pepper: A Culinary Delight Outside the Old City
In the evening, we took a taxi to dine at Black Pepper, a trendy restaurant located just outside the old city district. Black Pepper is renowned for its diverse menu, offering a wide array of dishes that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Upon arrival, we were immediately impressed by the chic and modern ambiance of the restaurant. The interior design is sleek and stylish, creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for a memorable dining experience.
The menu at Black Pepper is extensive, featuring a variety of options including delicious pizzas, hearty pasta dishes, and perfectly grilled steaks. Each dish is crafted with high-quality ingredients and presented with an artistic touch.
One of the highlights of Black Pepper is its comprehensive sushi menu. The sushi is truly exceptional, made with fresh, premium ingredients that result in an exquisite taste and texture. The selection ranges from classic rolls to innovative creations, ensuring that every sushi lover will find something to enjoy.
In addition to the excellent food, the service at Black Pepper is top-notch. The staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and well-cared for.
Whether you're in the mood for Italian classics like pizza and pasta, craving a juicy steak, or looking to indulge in some of the best sushi in the area, Black Pepper is the place to go. It’s a culinary gem that promises a delightful dining experience just a short ride from the old city.
Where to stay?
Riad Yacout
During our visit to Meknès, we spent our first night at the charming Riad Yacout, located just a five-minute walk from the bustling main square in the old city. The riad offers an excellent value for money, with rooms priced at around €35 per person per night, including breakfast.
Upon arrival, you can conveniently park your car in a secure parking area located in the square right in front of the riad. The cost is quite reasonable at 20 Dirhams (approximately €2) for 24 hours.
Riad Yacout is a beautifully restored traditional Moroccan house, featuring stunning architecture and intricate tile work that reflects the rich history of the region. The staff at the riad are incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
One of the highlights of Riad Yacout is its rooftop terrace, which boasts a small but inviting swimming pool. This is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city, offering a peaceful retreat with a view over the medina.
In addition to its comfortable accommodations, the riad also features an on-site restaurant. In the evening, you can enjoy a delicious dinner, with a menu that includes both traditional Moroccan dishes and international cuisine. The dining experience is enhanced by the cozy atmosphere of the riad, making it an ideal place to relax and savor your meal.
Overall, Riad Yacout provides a wonderful blend of traditional Moroccan charm and modern comfort, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Meknès. Whether you are here to explore the historic sites or simply to enjoy the ambiance of the old city, Riad Yacout is sure to enhance your stay in this captivating part of Morocco.
A Luxurious Stay at Chateau Roslane in Meknès
For our final night in Meknès, we indulged in the luxurious surroundings of Chateau Roslane. This exquisite hotel is nestled within a sprawling vineyard estate, which produces an impressive 40 million bottles of wine each year. The chateau offers a multitude of high-end amenities, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to experience the finer things in life.
Chateau Roslane is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience. The hotel features a tennis court for those who enjoy a bit of sport, and a stunning swimming pool that overlooks the picturesque vineyards, offering a serene and beautiful setting to relax and unwind. The spa is equipped with a traditional hammam, providing a perfect way to pamper yourself after a day of sightseeing.
The on-site restaurant at Chateau Roslane is a culinary delight. The food is of exceptional quality, with a menu that showcases both local and international flavors. For a room at this opulent hotel, you can expect to pay around €270 per night. Our dining experience, which included tapas, a starter, a main course, and approximately four glasses of wine, cost around €80 per person. The meals were worth every penny, providing an exquisite end to each day.
One of the unique features of staying at Chateau Roslane is the opportunity to explore its impressive wine production facilities. Guests can request a free tour of the wine cellars, which includes a brief overview of the production installations, a visit to the cellars themselves, and a chance to take in the breathtaking views of the vineyards. For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of wine, the chateau offers a wine tasting experience for €45 per person. This includes a guided tasting session where you can sample some of the estate’s finest wines.
Our stay at Chateau Roslane was the perfect conclusion to our journey through Morocco. The combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and the unique opportunity to explore a world-class vineyard made it an unforgettable experience. If you are looking to end your trip to Meknès on a high note, Chateau Roslane is an unparalleled choice, offering a blend of elegance, relaxation, and gourmet indulgence.
