“legend has it that the beautiful and mysterious wife of the king,
lalla salma, spent the early years of her life in this inspirational riad”
_J.S 

Dar Drouj, our home, is located just outside the oldest part of Fez. This is a neighborhood where families still live in traditional houses, where children play in the squares and alleys, where people drink from ancient fountains, where artisans work in their small workshops, and where local shops and barbers are found on every corner. Donkeys and handcarts still carry goods through the narrow streets. Here, you are truly immersed in the authentic life of the medina.

  

The foundations of these homes were laid by the Pashas, judges, and notable figures of the city. Dar Drouj is one of the oldest and most proud houses in the neighborhood. Legend has it that the beautiful and mysterious wife of the king, Lalla Salma, spent the early years of her life here, and we naturally named the house after her. However, the authorities did not allow us to officially connect her name to the house.

The house is situated in a Derb (an alleyway) called Derb Drouj, which literally translates to 'the staircase alley.' Now, the house has been given the honorable name Dar Drouj, meaning "Staircase House." With this name, we aim to honor the neighborhood and the neighbors of Derb Drouj.

The old and cluttered alleys in this area do not reveal that behind the imposing doors lies a small palace where families have lived together for generations. There is almost always a courtyard with a fountain. Dar Drouj is no exception. The house is richly decorated with original traditional mosaics, cedar wood carvings, and
plaster ornaments. You will feel as if you have stepped into a palace from the tales of 1001 Nights.

As soon as you enter the house, you experience a serene tranquility and only hear the birds singing. You instantly forget that you are in a bustling city. The authentic architectural style provides natural air conditioning and a pleasant atmosphere. From the spacious and atmospheric rooftop terrace, you can overlook Fez, hear the call to prayer from the minarets, and enjoy a delicious Moroccan breakfast. This wonderful place will touch your heart—a perfect retreat to rest and find inspiration.

The location of Dar Drouj is an excellent base for exploring the sights of the Medina. For instance, there is a fantastic authentic souk
(market) just a 5-minute walk away, where you can find everything related to food and drink. Whichever direction you take, there is always something to discover. Cars are not allowed in the medina, making it the largest car-free city center in the world. Everything is easily walkable. Nearby the house, you can take a taxi for a small fee, and there is a large new parking area just a 10-minute walk away. A free bus line can also bring you to the nearby square.

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary experience. Wander through the ancient Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old city is a labyrinth of wonders waiting to be discovered, where every step unravels a new story.

Explore our offerings further, as we provide a variety of themed workshops, guided walks, and curated excursions, each carefully designed
to offer a unique perspective on the rich heritage of Fez and its surroundings. For those seeking an exclusive experience, our entire house is also available for rent, perfect for family gatherings or artists looking for inspiration in this captivating residence.

We have partnered with local artisans to renovate our property. Their skills are invaluable in preserving this cultural heritage.

Our goal is to contribute to the strengthening of the local community by entrusting them with the work. We aim not only to provide a sanctuary for our cherished guests but also to support the local community by organizing gatherings and events. We hope to contribute to improving the living environment in this way.

We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey in Dar Drouj, where tranquility, culture, spirituality, and inspiration will create cherished memories.