Solo Cultural Exploration in Marrakech

Mountains and Melodies

Today was a day of stark contrasts, a vibrant tapestry woven from the rugged beauty of the Atlas Mountains and the smooth, soulful sounds of Marrakech's jazz scene. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected juxtapositions, the way a single day can hold so many different worlds.

My alarm went off early, a jarring sound against the quiet of the riad. I quickly dressed and headed downstairs for breakfast at Le Bistro Arabe. The prospect of a hearty Moroccan breakfast and the promise of jazz later that evening made it easier to leave the comfort of my bed. The restaurant was already buzzing with activity. I took a seat and ordered a traditional breakfast, savoring the strong coffee and fresh pastries as the sounds of the city began to stir outside.

After breakfast, I met my tour group for our day trip to the Atlas Mountains. The drive was an adventure in itself, the landscape transforming from the bustling city streets to the arid plains and finally, the majestic mountains. As we ascended, the air grew cooler, a welcome change from Marrakech's warmth. The views were simply breathtaking, the rugged peaks stretching as far as the eye could see. I made sure to bring my camera, knowing that I’d want to capture the stunning vistas. I’d forgotten extra memory cards though, a rookie mistake!

Our first stop was a traditional Berber village. The people were incredibly welcoming, offering us mint tea and sharing stories of their way of life. It was a humbling experience, seeing how they lived in harmony with the harsh environment, their lives so different from my own in Zurich. I couldn’t help but think of Wei and Mei, wondering what they would make of this place. The simplicity and resilience of the Berber people were truly inspiring.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

We continued our journey, hiking through the valleys and past cascading waterfalls. The landscape was dotted with small villages, each one seemingly untouched by time. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. Lunch was at Cuisine De Terroir, a charming restaurant with stunning views. I opted for a traditional tagine, savoring the rich flavors and spices. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.

In the afternoon, we visited a local argan oil cooperative, learning about the traditional methods of extracting the oil from the argan nuts. The women who ran the cooperative were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their work. I bought a small bottle of argan oil to take back to Mei, knowing she would appreciate its nourishing properties.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Marrakech. The city seemed a world away from the tranquility of the mountains. After freshening up at Riad Nafis, I was ready for the second act of my day: dinner and jazz at La Mamounia. This legendary hotel is an oasis of luxury and elegance, its opulent décor a stark contrast to the rustic charm of the Atlas Mountains.

La Mamounia was an experience in itself. I decided to have dinner at the hotel before the jazz performance. The ambiance was magical, with soft lighting, fragrant flowers, and impeccable service. I savored every bite of my meal, a fusion of Moroccan and international flavors. The hotel was beautiful, and the amenities were outstanding. I made sure to book the restaurants in advance, as I had heard that it gets busy with outside visitors coming to see La Mamounia by dining at the restaurants.

After dinner, I settled into a plush armchair in the jazz lounge, a glass of Moroccan wine in hand. The music began, and I was immediately transported. The soulful melodies filled the room, weaving a spell of rhythm and emotion. It was the perfect end to a day of contrasts, a seamless blend of rugged beauty and refined elegance.

As I walked back to Riad Nafis, the sounds of the city faded into the background. My thoughts were filled with the images of the Atlas Mountains and the melodies of the jazz music. It was a day I would never forget, a reminder of the beauty and diversity of this incredible country. The weather in the mountains in March is ideal for outdoor adventures. The daytime temperatures are mild, perfect for hiking and exploring the Berber villages.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Marrakech with a guided tour, delving deeper into the city's history and culture. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Dar Yacout for dinner, which I hear is an unforgettable experience. And perhaps I'll end the evening at MY Kechmara, soaking in the city's vibrant nightlife. For now, though, I'm content to drift off to sleep, dreaming of mountains and melodies.


Experience the beauty of the Atlas Mountains with unforgettable day trips from Marrakech, exploring stunning landscapes and rich Berber culture.


Discover Le Bistro Arabe: A fine dining haven in Marrakech offering Moroccan cuisine paired with enchanting live jazz performances.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cuisine De Terroir in the heart of Marrakesh's Medina - a culinary journey you won't forget.


Experience the vibrant culture of Marrakesh while enjoying the luxurious comfort of Riad Nafis, a serene retreat with top-notch amenities.


Experience unmatched luxury at La Mamounia in Marrakesh – where timeless elegance meets vibrant culture.