What re the Top 5 Places to Swim & Lunch in Fes?
Fes is a UNESCO city, in Morocco along with being cited as one of the oldest intellectual-spiritual capitals in the world. In 1981, Fes was inducted into UNESCO’s world heritage list for its Islamic design, architecture, souks, lively markets, madrasas, and spiritual centers. The ancient medina dates back to the Idrisid dynasty in 789 AD. Travelers also appreciate the Fez medina given is, one of the largest urban car-free cities in the world. Fes is ideal to visit year-round however Moroccan summers are hot. If you plan to visit Fes in summer an escape to one of its luxurious properties to swim and lunch is a must. Fes has a variety of options in both the historic medina and Ville Nouvelle where visitors can relax poolside. If you plan to visit Fes in summer an escape to one of its luxurious properties to swim and lunch is a must.
5 of the Best Hotels and Spaces to Swim & Lunch in Fez
Hotel Sahrai, a 5 Star Elegant Boutique Hotel in Fes, Designed by Architect Chirstophe Pillet
Hotel Sahrai is well appointed in the Villa Nouvelle of Fes. This 5-Star elegant boutique hotel is the vision of architect Christophe Pillet. Hotel Sahrai is an ideal place to stay for travelers visiting Fes El Bali who is interested in sophisticated, contemporary design and luxury Western amenities. Moroccan design elements of leather, wood, stone, and stucco are fused together in public spaces to mirror the Fes Medina. Hotel Sahrai is perfect for a weekend getaway for pool and lunch when the Fez summer heat reaches over 100 Degrees. Lunch can be enjoyed pools side. Chef Chez Mezguelidi hosts three different restaurants. Relais de Paris is inspired by a Parisian brasserie, Amaraz invites you to sample gourmet Moroccan & Lebanese cuisine under the beams of the vast dining room and the Jungle Bar offers a wide selection of Tapas, carefully selected wine and cocktails or homemade Sangria. Hotel Sahrir has a heated infinity pool which offers panoramic views of the ancient medina. A day pass is available for 500 MAD ($52 USD) or with pool and brunch 600 MAD ($62 USD).
Address: Dhar El Mehraz Fes, Phone: +212- 535-94-03-32
Palais Faraj, a 19th Century Fes Boutique Hotel Designed by the Kings Former Architect Jean-Baptiste Barian
Palais Faraj is a 19th Century Fassis boutique hotel within walking distance of the Bou Inania Madrasa in the Bab Ziat district of Fes El Bali. The property was designed by the King’s former architect Jean-Baptiste Barian who aimed to stun palace guests with the magnificent design of Andalusian and Arabic architecture. Palais Faraj’s interiors feature laced stucco, columns and moucharabiehs, magnificent arches, carved wood, plaster, and brass work. Since it’s a grand opening in 2012, Palais Faraj has seen artists, writers, and world leaders cross its marble floors and occupy their 25 luxury suites. The hotel also hosts significant swimming on a grand scale pool wrapped. During the summertime, Palais Faraj extends a pool and lunch pass available for 450 MAD ($48 USD) which includes the option of a 30-minute massage or hammam treatment with black soap scrub and orange blossom water. For an additional fee argan oil or a rhassoul clay body mask are offered. These legendary natural products that Moroccan women have been incorporating into their bathing routine for centuries are a highlight of the spa treatment.
Address: Derb Ziat, Fes, Phone +212-5356-35356
Les Mérinides Hotel, a Classic Hotel Perched on the Hillside in Fes
Les Mérinides Hotel is an older, classic hotel perched on the hillside of the Fes just footsteps from the stunning ruins of the Merinides tombs that date back to the 14th century. This hotel is an ideal place for sunset cocktails or rooftop dining at La Kouba du Ciel, their Moroccan restaurant or at L’Imperial if you prefer French fare. Les Mérinides perfect for a pool day with its spectacular 360-degree views of historic Fes el Bali. A day pool pass is available for 200 MAD ($22 USD) without lunch or 350 MAD ($36 USD) with three-course lunch which includes salad, starter, and dessert.
Address: Avenue des Mérinides, Fes Phone: 05356-45226
Riad Fes, an Relais and Chateaux Property and the Sought after Place to Stay in Fes
Riad Fes is a refined and significantly elegant Relais & Châteaux property owned by a Moroccan architect and one of the most sought after places to stay in the Heritage city of Fes. The Riad has four courtyards and a garden lined with orange, lemon and bay trees. It reflects design elements from Baroque and Moorish style and is located near in the Batha region of the Fes Medina. Visitors can take in the soaring ceilings and beautiful Moroccan craftsmanship on display at every turn. There are carved stucco, cedarwood throughout the property, complemented by intricate zellij tile work, a treasured craft of Fes. Riad Fes offers an intimate setting for a swim and lunch. The pool is backlit and has a hanging garden which lends warmth to its contemporary setting. A pool pass is available to visitors for 200 MAD ($22 USD). Lunch can be enjoyed at L’Ambre which serves a fusion of Mediterranean and local flavors. Riad Fes is a must on any travelers bucket list for those interested in traveling back in time to discover a sense Fassi nobility.
Address: 5 Derb Zerbtana, Fes, Phone: +212- 535-74-12-06
Dar El Mandar, a Family-style Berber Inn Nestled in the Mountains
Dar El Mandar is a family-style Berber Inn nestled in the mountainside, 30 minutes from Fes. The owner Joued is French-Algerian with Berber roots and moved to Fes a decade ago with his wife. Together they spent five years transforming a large swath of rural land into the charming farm style property that is today Dar El Mandar. Experiencing village life is a part of the stay with their natures walks and Berber bakery workshop. Following the principle of Table D’Hôtes, all guests enjoy the same menu of traditional Moroccan dishes made with fresh, farm produce grown in the Amazigh traditional way. During the summertime, Dar El Mandar offers a pool pass for 350 MAD ($36 USD) that includes welcome tea, olive oil tasting served with artisanal bread prepared in the Amazigh way and a five-course lunch. Lunch is served under a Berber tent by their Dada Chef Fatima. The five-course lunch offered is aubergine and beetroot salad, tomatoes with honey, beef or lamb tagine with vegetables, and homemade bisara soup with olive cumin. The property’s large swimming pool has extraordinary views of the Fes countryside. Families who stay or come for a pool day also have the option to consider a nature walk in the surrounding region which is offered by a donkey or by foot. enjoy exploring the farm, gardens, and surrounding hills by a donkey or on foot.
Address; Douar Lahricha, Bni Mellala Commune Rurale Kandar Sidi Khiar, Caida Ait Youssi, Fes, Phone: +212-676- 14-13- 35