Sefrou Medina and Cherry Town

Sefrou is a walled oasis town about 28 km south of Fès in Morocco's Fès-Meknès region, known for its cherries and for a medina that is smaller, quieter and more traditional than Fès. The old town stands on both banks of the Oued Aggaï, with narrow lanes, small mosques, workshops and local markets that cater mainly to residents rather than tourists. It has an old mellah dating from the Moulay Ismail era, a reminder of the historic Jewish community. Visitors walk through the medina gates, along the river with its old mills and bridges, and through alleys lined with crafts, spices and fruit stalls. The Agouray waterfall, a short distance outside the town, and the surrounding orchards and gardens add outdoor options. The Cherry Festival, held each June, brings parades, music and crowds, and is the best time for visitors who want to see local culture, though accommodation fills quickly. Otherwise, morning is the best time of day, when markets are busy and temperatures are cooler. A visit takes two to three hours, and the town is easy to see as a half-day trip from Fès. Crowds are small throughout the year, and visitors are often the only foreigners in the lanes. The medina is open all day, shops run from about 9:00 to 19:00, and entry is free. Shared grand taxis from the Bab Ftouh station in Fès cost about 15 MAD per seat for the 30-minute journey. Photography is generally fine, but visitors should ask before photographing vendors. Modest dress is appreciated.