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Head for Ouarzazate - gateway to the desert |
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The city of Ouarzazate is located in southern Morocco. Historically, this was a resting point for African traders on their way to the markets of Marakech and Europe, later becoming an important garrison town and customs post. Today, it is best known for its luxury hotels and movie studios - “Gladiator”, “Alexander” and “Babel” have all been filmed here. Visitors here shouldn’t miss the stunning Palace of Glaoui.
Local excursions include the famous fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, easily recognised by classic movie fans from its appearance in “Lawrence of Arabia”. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, only 10 families remain living within the towering “kasbahs”. Sunset here is particularly beautiful with the city’s red walls shimmering and reflecting the departing Saharan sun.
 Ouarzazate is the starting point for the 300 mile drive through the Draa Valley to the Sahara. Best visited in October, May or April, the valley provides a narrow green ribbon of date palms along an ever narrowing river, amongst the red and brown rock of the surrounding landscape. Along the way are a number of seemingly deserted, red clay villages which offer a unique insight into Berber life. The ksour (fortified castle) of Tamnougalt is one of the sightseeing highlights along the way. Also within easy reach is the oasis of Zagora, once a French Legion outpost from where camel trains traditionally departed across the Sahara for Timbuktu. Camel treks into the desert are still on offer here for tourists but this is as far as most venture - onwards lies Merzouga and the emerging desert sands of the Sahara
Alternatively, drive through the fig groves and Kasbahs of the Dades Valley to experience the spectacular Todra Gorge. This 1,000 foot tall canyon is a spectacular sight, dramatically cut from the pink and green walls of the High Atlas Mountains.
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Relax at the coast |
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Morocco's coastline is beautiful, stretching for hundreds of miles. Agadir is the main resort for a beach based holiday but also increasing in popularity, due to its impressive beach, is Essaouira.
Approximately 2.5 hours from Marrakech, Essaouira is a historic town, a former Portuguese port with cannon lined battlements looking out to sea. Today, things are slightly quieter - the harbour is the hub of activity, backed by the main square and small food stalls where you can choose from the best of the day’s catch - just take a seat and a server will gladly barbeque the fish of your choice.
This is a traditional town of whitewashed buildings and beautiful Portuguese architecture. Wander down the main street from the harbour and make your way to the souks of the Medina. Renowned for their marquetry, they are well worth a visit.
Along from the harbour is an expansive beach, backed by a long promenade and wafted by refreshing sea breezes. The sands shelve gently for safe bathing but there are plenty of activities to choose from if you fancy something more active - how about sailing, kite surfing, horse riding or even camel trekking? The area has also gained somewhat of a reputation as a windsurfing centre as well as a relaxed resort for independent types. There is a good choice of riads to choose from as well as numerous restaurants, shops and art galleries.
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