Family Adventure in Taroudant, Morocco

Day 1: Unveiling Taroudant: A Family's First Day in Morocco's Ancient City

Explore Taroudant's majestic walls, vibrant markets, and artistic treasures with my family. Discover the charm of Morocco's 'Little Marrakech'!

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First Impressions of Taroudant
After months of planning and anticipation, our family adventure in Morocco has officially begun! Today marked our arrival in Taroudant, a city often referred to as 'Little Marrakech,' and it has already captured our hearts with its authentic charm and rich history. The journey here was smooth, and we are all eager to immerse ourselves in the local culture. I am excited to share our experiences as we explore this hidden gem with Ama and Klaus.

Our day started early as we prepared for our flight from Berlin to Agadir. Thankfully, the flight was direct, making the journey relatively easy with a toddler in tow. Ama, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by the airplane and kept pointing out the clouds. Klaus, as always, was our rock, ensuring we had everything we needed, including Ama's favorite snacks and toys. I must admit, I nearly forgot the portable phone charger and the first-aid kit in my rush to pack everything else!

Upon arriving in Agadir, we were greeted by the warm Moroccan sun and a driver who efficiently transported us to Taroudant. The drive was short, giving us a glimpse of the beautiful Moroccan countryside. As we approached Taroudant, the imposing city walls came into view, instantly transporting us back in time. The honey-colored walls, stretching for what seemed like miles, were a sight to behold.

Our first stop was Bab Tarɣunt, one of the ancient gates that guard the city. Standing beneath its archway, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the history that permeated every stone. Ama was particularly fascinated by the massive wooden doors, running her little hands over their weathered surfaces. We took some photos, capturing the moment and the sheer scale of the gate. It was a perfect introduction to the city and its rich heritage.

Explore the breathtaking architecture and rich history of Bab Tarɣunt, a historical gem in Taroudant, Morocco, steeped in culture and charm.
Explore the breathtaking architecture and rich history of Bab Tarɣunt, a historical gem in Taroudant, Morocco, steeped in culture and charm.

Taroudant is a city where history whispers from every corner, inviting you to lose yourself in its timeless beauty.

Next, we headed to the Musée Plein Air Claudio Bravo, an open-air museum showcasing the works of the renowned Chilean hyperrealist painter. This was an unexpected gem! Nestled amidst lush gardens, the museum was a tranquil oasis. The art was stunning, and the setting provided a unique way to appreciate Bravo's talent. Ama, surprisingly, was quite engaged, pointing at the vibrant colors and intriguing shapes. Klaus, with his architectural background, was particularly impressed by the design of the museum and how it seamlessly blended with the natural surroundings. I found myself drawn to the stories behind each piece, reflecting on Bravo's life and his passion for Morocco.

Discover the beauty of art and nature at Musée Plein Air Claudio Bravo in Taroudant, a unique open-air museum showcasing the works of Claudio Bravo.
Discover the beauty of art and nature at Musée Plein Air Claudio Bravo in Taroudant, a unique open-air museum showcasing the works of Claudio Bravo.

For breakfast, we chose Café Restaurant Roma, a local spot known for its traditional Moroccan fare. The café was bustling with locals, creating a lively atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tagine and couscous, all bursting with flavor. Ama, surprisingly, took a liking to the tagine, happily munching on the tender vegetables. The mint tea, a staple in Moroccan culture, was a refreshing treat. It was the perfect way to start our culinary journey in Taroudant.

Experience the essence of Morocco at Café Restaurant Roma with authentic dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Taroudant.
Experience the essence of Morocco at Café Restaurant Roma with authentic dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Taroudant.

Lunch was at Complexe El Kasbah, a restaurant offering panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and the city's palm groves. The setting was breathtaking. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the delicious Moroccan cuisine while soaking in the stunning scenery. The menu offered a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes, which was a plus for me. The couscous was particularly memorable, light and fluffy, and the tagine was rich and flavorful. Klaus appreciated the architectural details of the building, noting the intricate tile work and the traditional design elements. Ama, of course, was more interested in the pigeons that frequented the outdoor seating area, providing endless entertainment.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Complexe El Kasbah – where every meal tells a story through rich flavors and local ingredients.
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Complexe El Kasbah – where every meal tells a story through rich flavors and local ingredients.

In the afternoon, we ventured into the Grande marché de l'artisanat, a bustling marketplace filled with local crafts and goods. The market was a sensory overload, with vibrant colors, exotic scents, and the sounds of bartering filling the air. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the intricate pottery, hand-woven textiles, and traditional leather goods. I was particularly drawn to the jewelry, finding a beautiful silver bracelet that I couldn't resist. Ama, however, was more interested in the local treats, and we ended up buying her some delicious Moroccan sweets. Klaus, ever the negotiator, managed to haggle for some great deals, much to my amusement.

Explore the Grande Marché de l'Artisanat in Taroudant, a vibrant market showcasing the best of Moroccan craftsmanship and local culture.
Explore the Grande Marché de l'Artisanat in Taroudant, a vibrant market showcasing the best of Moroccan craftsmanship and local culture.

As the day drew to a close, we indulged in dinner at Dar Zitoune, a restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and charming ambiance. The restaurant was set in a beautiful garden, creating a tranquil and romantic atmosphere. We savored a delicious meal, enjoying the traditional flavors and the warm hospitality. The staff was incredibly attentive, making us feel right at home. Ama, tired from the day's adventures, fell asleep in my arms, lulled by the gentle music and the soothing ambiance.

Discover Dar Zitoune in Taroudant – A delightful blend of Moroccan cuisine and hospitality awaits you at this charming restaurant-hotel.
Discover Dar Zitoune in Taroudant – A delightful blend of Moroccan cuisine and hospitality awaits you at this charming restaurant-hotel.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, soaking in the atmosphere and the sights. The city was alive with activity, locals going about their evening routines, children playing in the streets, and the scent of spices filling the air. It was a truly immersive experience, giving us a glimpse into the heart and soul of Taroudant.

The weather in June is quite warm, with temperatures reaching around 34°C during the day, so we made sure to stay hydrated and wear light clothing. The clear skies and sunshine added to the beauty of the city, making it a perfect day for exploring.

As I reflect on our first day, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. Taroudant has already exceeded our expectations, and I can't wait to discover more of its hidden treasures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Dar al-Dabbagh to explore the traditional tanneries and Taroudant's Gardens for a relaxing afternoon. We're also looking forward to trying out Le Moulin de Taroudant!

I am so grateful for this opportunity to share my love for travel and culture with my family. Seeing Ama experience new things and witnessing her curiosity and wonder is truly priceless. And having Klaus by my side, providing his unwavering support and unique perspective, makes the journey even more special. I am excited to continue our adventure in Taroudant and share our experiences with you all.

As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, a famous Moroccan explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And I hope to continue sharing my stories with you all!

Until tomorrow!

Go to day 2 A Colorful Day in Taroudant: Tanneries, Gardens, and Tajine Delights
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Family Adventure in Taroudant, Morocco

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Taroudant, Morocco, with your family for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Sous Valley.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Abena Mensah
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Software Developer specializing in AI applications for sustainable agriculture.
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 27

Hello, fellow travelers! I'm Abena Mensah, a software developer from Ghana, currently living in Germany with my husband and daughter. My passion for sustainable living, combined with my love for exploring new cultures, has led me to create this blog. Here, I share my travel experiences, focusing on eco-conscious adventures, cultural immersion, and authentic connections with local communities. Join me as I navigate the world, one sustainable step at a time!

Interests:
  • Sustainable living
  • African history and culture
  • Technological innovation
  • Global cuisine
  • Photography
More about Abena Mensah

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  • Bab Tarɣunt

    Explore the breathtaking architecture and rich history of Bab Tarɣunt, a historical gem in Taroudant, Morocco, steeped in culture and charm.

  • Musée Plein Air Claudio Bravo

    Discover the beauty of art and nature at Musée Plein Air Claudio Bravo in Taroudant, a unique open-air museum showcasing the works of Claudio Bravo.

  • Café Restaurant Roma

    Experience the essence of Morocco at Café Restaurant Roma with authentic dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Taroudant.

  • Complexe El Kasbah

    Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Complexe El Kasbah – where every meal tells a story through rich flavors and local ingredients.

  • Dar Zitoune

    Discover Dar Zitoune in Taroudant – A delightful blend of Moroccan cuisine and hospitality awaits you at this charming restaurant-hotel.

  • Grande marché de l'artisanat

    Explore the Grande Marché de l'Artisanat in Taroudant, a vibrant market showcasing the best of Moroccan craftsmanship and local culture.

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