Family Cultural Immersion in Marrakech

A Day Among Giants

Today, our family traded the vibrant chaos of Marrakech for the majestic serenity of the Atlas Mountains and the lush Ourika Valley. Leaving the city behind, even just for a day, offered a refreshing perspective and a deeper connection to Morocco’s natural beauty. It was a welcome change of pace, reminding us that there’s so much more to this country than its bustling cityscapes.



We started our day with breakfast at La table du riad. The hotel offered a complimentary breakfast, a rich combination of Moroccan and Italian ingredients daily arranged by our morning Chef and daily changing: seasonal fruit salad, organic yogurt, fresh squeezed orange juice, tasty Moroccan pastries and cakes and fresh baked bread. As well as cheese, jam, honey and à la carte menu of eggs with bacon and ham. Gluten free and dairy intolerance items are available on request. I had a gluten free bread with jam and honey, and it was delicious!


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Table du Riad in Marrakesh's enchanting Medina.

The drive towards the Atlas Mountains was mesmerizing. The landscape transformed gradually, from the flat plains surrounding Marrakech to the rolling hills and rugged peaks of the Atlas range. Nadia was glued to the window, pointing out the sheep and goats grazing on the hillsides. Lukas and I were equally captivated, watching as the sun painted the landscape in hues of gold and ochre. I was glad I packed layers, as I knew the temperature would fluctuate between the warm day and the cold night. January in Marrakech means warm days and super cold nights where temperatures drop down to near freezing.



Our first stop was the Ourika Valley, a verdant oasis nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. The valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, with terraced fields, fruit orchards, and traditional Berber villages clinging to the hillsides. As we drove deeper into the valley, the air grew cooler and fresher, a welcome change from the bustling city. The Ourika Valley is situated southeast of Marrakech in the foothills of the snow-capped Western High Atlas Mountains. It is a beautiful region of Morocco, offering opportunities for mountain hiking, exploration of unique Berber villages, and even winter snow skiing.


Experience the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Ourika Valley, a hidden gem in the Atlas Mountains perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

We stopped at a roadside Berber village, where we had the opportunity to stretch our legs and explore the local market. The market was a riot of colors and sounds, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Nadia was fascinated by the chickens and goats wandering freely among the stalls, while Lukas haggled with a vendor over a colorful woven rug.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments, but in the simple interactions with people and the embrace of nature's untouched beauty.

For lunch, we stopped at Un déjeuner a Marrakech, a charming restaurant known for its French-inspired cuisine with a Moroccan twist. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and serves up what we've found to be the most tasty and reasonably priced food in the Medina. The French inspired menu is particularly good if you have got a bit tired of tagines and couscous! The roof terrace is great on a spring or autumn day and if you are unfortunate enough to get caught in the rain, there is a good sized interior dining room where you can shelter. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats, fresh salads, and flavorful tagines, all washed down with refreshing mint tea. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. The restaurant also has vegan options available, such as salad, quiche, and sandwiches.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in a stunning setting at Un Déjeuner à Marrakech - where tradition meets contemporary dining.

After lunch, we continued our journey deeper into the Atlas Mountains. The road grew steeper and narrower, winding its way through hairpin turns and rocky gorges. The scenery became even more dramatic, with towering peaks, plunging valleys, and cascading waterfalls at every turn. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer scale and beauty of the natural world.

One of the highlights of our day was a visit to the Setti Fatma waterfalls, a series of seven cascades that tumble down the mountainside. The hike to the waterfalls was challenging but rewarding, with stunning views at every turn. Nadia was determined to reach the top, scrambling over rocks and splashing through streams with infectious enthusiasm. When we finally reached the highest waterfall, we were rewarded with a breathtaking vista of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way back towards Marrakech. The sky was ablaze with color, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape. We arrived back at Riad Le Rubis tired but exhilarated, our hearts full of memories of our day in the Atlas Mountains. We had dinner at Restaurant Le Grand Bazar Marrakech. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the staff is very efficient. The decor is fancy. The restaurant is ideally located, and the storefront is well identified. The staff at the entrance is very welcoming. The restaurant has a very neat and unusual decoration. It plunges you several decades back where ancient objects come to adorn the walls like museum pieces. The staff were so friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The atmosphere was cozy and vibrant, perfectly capturing the spirit of Marrakesh. If you're looking for a place to enjoy delicious traditional food with exceptional service, this is the spot. Highly recommend!


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Le Grand Bazar Marrakech in the heart of Jemaa El Fna.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the cultural heart of Marrakech with visits to the House of Photography and the Museum of Women. I'm particularly excited to explore the Souk Jdid for some unique finds.



As I reflect on our day, I’m reminded of the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing new experiences. The Atlas Mountains and the Ourika Valley offered us a glimpse into a different way of life, a chance to connect with nature, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Morocco. It’s a day our family will cherish forever.