Hotel Les Mérinides sits on the northern hills above Fes, beside the ruins of the Merinid Tombs and close to the Borj Nord fortress. Travelers book it for one reason above all: a sweeping panorama over Fes el-Bali, the walled medina that ranks among the world’s largest car-free urban areas.
The hotel’s air-conditioned rooms use light tones, glass and wood, and include satellite TV and a minibar. The property has three restaurants, including a Moroccan dining room on the third floor where tagines and pastilla come with views across the medina rooftops (source: Les Mérinides). The pool terrace looks over the old city, and the Jbel Zalagh hiking trail starts about five minutes away on foot (source: Hotelfes.net). Expect mixed feedback on service and upkeep. Tripadvisor reviewers rate it 3 out of 5, while guests consistently praise the location (source: Tripadvisor).
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
The best seasons to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when hillside temperatures are mild. Peak summer heat makes the pool worth having. Request a medina-view room when you book, and reserve a terrace table for sunset, when the call to prayer echoes across the valley. Non-guests often walk up to the neighboring Merinid Tombs for the same view. To reach the medina, take a short taxi ride down to Bab Guissa or Bab Boujloud. Hiring a licensed guide makes navigating the souks far easier.
