Beni Mellal

Nestled among the majestic ranges of the Middle Atlas, the city of Béni Mellal is a Moroccan oasis of peace and tranquility, enchanting visitors with its pristine natural beauty and authentic charm. As the capital of the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region, overlooked by Mount Tassemit, it is an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, immersing themselves in typical Moroccan culture and fascinating mountain landscapes for a journey of culture, relaxation, nature, and outdoor activities.

The city of Béni Mellal was populated in the 12th century by the Masmouda tribe, great builders and founders of the Almohad and Hafsid Dynasties. The vibrant heart of the city is the Medina, a maze of winding alleys and colorful souks, where one can get lost among the myriad hues and scents of Moroccan culture amidst stalls laden with fragrant spices, local crafts, silver jewelry, and intricate carpets.

Among the most important tourist attractions to visit in Béni Mellal is the ancient Souk market, the historic Mohammed VI Mosque, one of the city’s oldest mosques dating back to the Andalusian period, and the Béni Mellal Garden, a botanical green area where visitors can stroll among local plants and flowers. Meanwhile, the city museum is the ideal place to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the city and its region through a collection of archaeological findings, historical artifacts, and local artworks.

History and architecture enthusiasts can visit the Kasbah of Béni Mellal, an ancient fortress perched like a castle. Constructed around 1688 during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail, it is located near the rejuvenating spring of Aïn Asserdoun and is easily accessible by car. From atop the fortress, amidst expanses of orange and olive trees, one can enjoy a beautiful view of the Tadla Plain.

A bit further, about 35 km from Béni Mellal, one can also admire Kasbah Tadla, founded in the 11th century by the Banou Ifren dynasty and later under the dominion of the Almoravids. Revived by the Alaouite dynasty, the Ismailia Kasbah, the core of Kasbah Tadla, was built in 1687 by Sultan Moulay Ismail as a religious center with two mosques and administrative, urban, and military centers, and in 1916, it was declared a National Heritage.

However, one of the main draws of Béni Mellal is its incredible natural beauty. Indeed, the city is surrounded by a lush green countryside, marked by vibrant forests of olives, lemons, and oranges, extending to the slopes of the surrounding mountains. Here, nature lovers can walk along various hiking trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes.

Among the region's most spectacular natural wonders are the Aïn Asserdoun Falls, a short distance from the city center, forming a spectacle of crystal-clear water cascading down steep rocks, creating natural pools ideal for refreshing summer swims. A scenic path leads to the waterfalls, offering incredible views and the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna along the way.

For those wishing to relax and rejuvenate, the thermal springs of Aïn Asserdoune at 640 meters are a true paradise. Immersed in the warm and beneficial waters, one can let go of stress and unwind. It is reachable by a paved road known as the "tourist circuit" through a wooded area, ideal for hiking, horseback riding, or mule rides.

For those wanting to venture further into the province of Béni Mellal to better discover the beauties of nature, they can visit the mountains of Moudj (15.5 km from the city), the Taghzirt gorges (the village of Tagzirt is 20 km from Béni Mellal), the Tamda springs, Zaouiat Cheikh, and reach the Ahmed El Hansali Lake dotted with islands at an altitude of 950 meters, in the municipality of Aït Oum El Bekht 6 km from Zaouiat Cheikh, about 60 km from Béni Mellal.

And, for those who want to go even further, 120 km from Béni Mellal are the famous Ouzoud Falls, consisting of waterfalls of 110 meters at 1,060 meters of height, on the Middle Atlas mountain range, where one can also camp and stop to eat in restaurants specializing in Berber cuisine.

Beyond tourist attractions, Béni Mellal boasts a rich culture and tradition. Attending performances of traditional music and dance, participating in events and festivals throughout the year, and tasting the local cuisine rich in spicy flavors allows for a total immersion in Berber culture.

In the historic center of Béni Mellal, with its labyrinth of narrow streets and lively markets, one can shop for local products, traditional crafts, and culinary delights. In the bustling main square, there are several cafes and restaurants where one can savor Moroccan cuisine while observing local life.

 

Indeed, Béni Mellal is also a city rich in culinary traditions, where one can delight in a variety of dishes that reflect the essence of Moroccan cuisine. The city is located in an agricultural region dedicated to the cultivation of citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, and tangerines), olives with a unique flavor, aromatic honey, and spices such as saffron, cinnamon, cumin, and coriander.

 

Among the typical dishes to taste in Béni Mellal are Tagine (prepared with chicken, lamb, beef, or fish and vegetables with spices); Couscous (served with meat or stewed vegetables, made with durum wheat semolina and seasoned with spices and sauces); Pastilla (a savory pie filled with chicken or pigeon, eggs, almonds, and spices, all wrapped in puff pastry sheets and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon); Harira (a thick soup with tomatoes, legumes, meat, and spices); Mint Tea (mint tea with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar), a refreshing and aromatic drink that accompanies every meal; Chebakia (a dessert made of strips of fried dough, braided and immersed in a sweet syrup flavored with honey and orange blossom water and dusted with toasted sesame seeds).

Texts by Nicole Villa

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Photos: Copyright © Regional Council of Tourism of Beni Mellal-Khenifra