Family Adventure in Vibrant Marrakech

A Day of Refreshing Escapes

Today, we ventured beyond the vibrant chaos of Marrakech to discover the serene beauty of the Ourika Valley. I was eager to immerse myself and my family in the natural landscapes and Berber culture that this region promises. It was a day filled with scenic drives, gentle hikes, and delicious food, offering a refreshing contrast to the bustling city life.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at L'Mdina Marrakech. The restaurant's decor was charming, setting a delightful tone for the day. The live music in the evening is something I'll keep in mind for future visits, but for now, a quiet breakfast was perfect. After fuelling up, we packed our essentials – sunscreen, water bottles, and of course, my camera – and set off towards the High Atlas Mountains.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at L'Mdina Marrakech amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the historic Medina.

The drive itself was an experience. As we left Marrakech, the landscape gradually transformed from the city's red hues to the lush greenery of the Ourika Valley. The road wound through charming villages, offering glimpses into traditional Moroccan life. Leela was especially fascinated by the donkeys carrying goods and the women selling colourful handicrafts by the roadside. Thomas, ever the geography enthusiast, pointed out the terraced fields and explained how the Berber people have ingeniously cultivated the land for centuries.

Our main destination was the Ourika Valley Waterfalls, specifically those near Setti Fatma. The village itself is a bustling hub, with locals offering guided tours to the falls. We decided to hire a guide, a friendly Berber man named Omar, who spoke excellent English and shared fascinating insights into the local culture and the valley's history. He explained that the Ourika Valley is inhabited mainly by Berber people who speak the Shilha language and have maintained their traditional mountain way of life, despite the valley's proximity to Marrakech.


Explore the breathtaking Ourika Valley Waterfalls, a stunning natural oasis in Morocco's majestic landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The hike to the waterfalls was relatively easy, though some parts were a bit steep and rocky. I was glad we had our comfortable walking shoes. Leela needed a bit of help in some places, but she was a real trooper, determined to reach the top. Along the way, we passed several small shops selling Berber crafts, argan oil products, and refreshing drinks. The sound of the Ourika River accompanied us throughout the hike, its cool water a welcome respite from the warm sun.

The waterfalls themselves were a sight to behold. The water cascaded down the rocks in multiple tiers, creating a series of small pools. Many people were swimming in the pools, but the water looked quite cold, so we decided to skip that. Instead, we enjoyed the view and the refreshing mist, taking plenty of photos to capture the moment.

The beauty of the Ourika Valley lies not only in its natural landscapes but also in the warmth and resilience of its Berber people.

After our hike, we were ready for lunch. Omar led us to Restaurant Casa Lalla, which offered a delightful setting and amazing service. We sat on a terrace overlooking the valley, enjoying the panoramic views while we savoured traditional Moroccan dishes. I opted for the tagine, while Thomas chose the couscous, and Leela enjoyed some grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Casa Lalla in Marrakesh's historic Medina - where tradition meets taste.

During lunch, Omar shared more about Berber culture and traditions. He explained the importance of family and community in Berber society and how they have preserved their unique identity despite the influences of modern life. He also talked about the challenges they face, such as limited access to education and healthcare, but also their determination to maintain their way of life.

One of the most interesting things I learned was about the traditional Berber homes, often made from local materials like clay and stone, blending seamlessly with the landscape. Omar explained that these homes are designed to be sustainable and energy-efficient, using natural insulation to keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

After lunch, we visited a local argan oil cooperative, where we learned about the process of extracting argan oil from the argan tree nuts. The women at the cooperative demonstrated the traditional methods, which involve grinding the nuts by hand and pressing them to extract the oil. I was impressed by their skill and dedication, and I purchased a bottle of argan oil to support their work.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Marrakech, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by our escape to the Ourika Valley. The experience had given us a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of Morocco, and I was grateful for the opportunity to share it with my family.

For dinner, we decided to indulge in a truly Moroccan dining experience at Dar Yacout. The restaurant is known for its opulent setting and traditional cuisine, and it did not disappoint. From the moment we stepped inside, we were transported to a world of Arabian Nights. The decor was lavish, with intricate mosaics, soaring arches, and glittering chandeliers. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was magical.


Experience the essence of Moroccan culture through exquisite cuisine at Dar Yacout in Marrakech's historic Medina.

The evening began with a welcome drink on the rooftop terrace, where we enjoyed stunning views of the Marrakech Medina and the Koutoubia Mosque. As the sun set, the city lights twinkled below, creating a romantic and enchanting ambiance. We then moved to a sumptuous room with a rose-petal-covered fountain, where we enjoyed pre-dinner drinks and listened to traditional Moroccan music.

Dinner was a feast for the senses, with a seemingly endless array of Moroccan salads, tagines, and couscous dishes. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Leela was particularly fond of the pastilla, a sweet and savory pie filled with pigeon or chicken and almonds. Thomas and I enjoyed the tagine with lamb and vegetables, which was cooked to perfection.

Throughout the meal, we were entertained by a troupe of musicians and dancers, who performed traditional Moroccan music and dances. The atmosphere was festive and lively, and we felt like we were part of a grand celebration.

As we savoured our mint tea and pastries, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the refreshing waterfalls of the Ourika Valley to the opulent setting of Dar Yacout, it had been a day filled with unforgettable experiences. I was grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family and to create memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the El Badi Palace and the Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam. I'm particularly intrigued by the Cyber Park, as it seems like an interesting blend of technology and nature. We'll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Le Jardin Restaurant Marrakech Medina for lunch and Rooftop Restaurant Koulchi Zine for dinner. And if we have time, we might even check out BAROMETRE COCKTAILS in Marrakech for a nightcap.

As I drift off to sleep, I'm filled with anticipation for another day of discovery in this magical city. Marrakech, you continue to surprise and delight me at every turn.