The area around Fèz was settled in the late 8th century. The founding of the city dates back to 789 AD, when Idris I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, founded the first settlement on the right bank of the Oued Fès river.
Later, in 808, Idris II founded another settlement on the left bank of the river. These two settlements grew together and formed the present-day city of Fèz. The region between Fèz and Ifrane in Morocco is characterised by its diverse landscapes and changing climate. From the historic medina of Fèz, with its winding alleyways and lively markets, the route leads into the peaceful, green hills of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Fortunately, the charm of the medina’s past has been preserved to this day.
Atlas metropolis Fez and the Middle Atlas
Fez is the third largest city in the Kingdom of Morocco and has around 1.5 million inhabitants. The charming royal city of Fez is quite hilly in parts. The surrounding mountains reach 1600 metres and more, and in winter you can go skiing in Ifrane.
The mountains and landscapes are impressive
Let’s take a look at Ifrane, also known as ‘Little Switzerland’. The picturesque town lies at an altitude of around 1,665 metres and offers a cooler climate in summer, as well as European-style architecture. The region is known for its cedar forests, picturesque villages and the famous Michlifen ski resort. Between Fez and Ifrane, agricultural areas and the first forests can be seen. If you drive past Ifrane, fertile valleys, oak and cedar forests and impressive mountain landscapes stretch out behind it, ideal for outdoor activities.
A recommendation for travellers to Morocco
The “Dar El Mandar” is a luxury Berber farmhouse and guesthouse located between the village of Bhalil and the town of Immouzer, at the foot of the Middle Atlas Mountains. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Fèz and the Saïss plain. The property has seven exclusive rooms with panoramic views, an outdoor pool, several gardens and terraces as well as a Berber tent to relax in.
There are species-appropriate farm animals and secure free parking. This unusual luxury guest house combines comfort and authenticity in the midst of nature. The cuisine is excellent, the produce is organic and is sourced and grown as locally as possible. The unique guest house is eco-friendly and designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible. The creative and French-born hotelier Jaoued Saidi plans to plant trees on the 6 hectare property – at the same time growing more and more organic herbs, vegetables and fruit.
Excellent cuisine and homemade wholemeal bread
The cookery skills of the staff at Dar El Mandar are excellent. Authentic recipes from the past are still used here for the enjoyment and health of the guests. The cuisine offers traditional Berber dishes that have been passed down for generations. Exotic and tasty flavours and spices are skilfully used here.
With the astonishing effect that even spoilt guests wait in rapture for the next course: The use of Moroccan spices such as saffron, coriander and cumin creates rich and complex flavours. In fact, even a spoilt holidaymaker will experience a particularly enjoyable explosion of flavours from the very first taste of Dar El Mandar cuisine.
