Nestled at the base of Jbel Tassemit, Beni Mellal is a regional capital between Marrakesh and Meknes. It was established as a walled town in 1688 by Ismail Ibn Sharif, the second ruler of the Alaouites. Today, Beni Mellal is renowned for its textile industry and cultivation of oranges, olives and figs.
Things to do in Beni Mellal
On the southeastern outskirts of Beni Mellal is Ain Asserdoun, a freshwater spring that cascades over a picturesque garden terrace. It’s a popular spot for local families to picnic, with an on-site cafe where you can grab drinks and snacks throughout the day. You can stretch your legs along one of the paved walkways that hug the water channel or relax on a bench in the shade and watch the world go by.
Overlooking Ain Asserdoun is the Kasbah of Beni Mellal, a four-towered castle originally built by Moulay Ismail Ibn Sharif to protect the city from invaders. Now restored to its former glory, it offers magnificent views across the city below, with the panoramas particularly majestic at nighttime.
A short drive south of Beni Mellal is the Bin el Ouidane Reservoir, which was created with the damming of the Bin el Ouidane River in 1953. Marvel at the 133-metre-high dam wall designed by the French engineering firm Coyne et Bellier and learn about its role in producing hydroelectricity for the region. Famed for its brilliant turquoise waters, Bin el Ouidane Reservoir provides an idyllic setting for kayaking and fishing.
Getting around Beni Mellal
Beni Mellal is around three hours’ drive from Marrakesh and Marrakesh Menara Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Long-distance buses connect to Beni Mellal while grand and petite taxis are available for getting around the city.