Family Adventure in Morocco's Dades Valley

A Day in the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

Today was all about absorbing the raw beauty and cultural richness of the Dadès Vallei. Leaving the familiar behind and embracing the unknown is what travel is all about, and Dades Valley didn't disappoint. It was a day filled with stunning landscapes, warm encounters, and flavors that danced on my palate.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Dadès Valley, a breathtaking gem in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, perfect for adventurers and culture seekers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant ANBD. Mei opted for a traditional Moroccan pancake, while Lina, ever the predictable one, chose a croissant. I went for a classic Berber omelet, packed with local herbs and spices. It was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. The café itself was a cozy spot, buzzing with locals and fellow travelers, all eager to start their day in this stunning valley. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant ANBD - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Randonnee Vallee Dades au Maroc. The drive itself was an experience, with the road winding through dramatic gorges and past ancient kasbahs. The landscape was a photographer's dream, with the changing light casting shadows on the rugged cliffs and verdant valleys. I stopped frequently, much to the amusement of Mei and Lina, to capture the perfect shot. I couldn't help but think about how different this was from the grey skies of Berlin, a world away from my IT consultancy work. Sometimes, you just need to disconnect to reconnect, you know?


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Dades Valley, Morocco—an outdoor paradise for every adventurer.

The beauty of Dades Valley lies not just in its landscapes, but in the warmth and resilience of its people.

Our main activity for the day was a randonnée (hike) through the Vallee Dades au Maroc. We chose a trail that promised panoramic views and a chance to immerse ourselves in the local Berber culture. The hike was challenging at times, but the views were more than worth it. We passed through small villages, where we were greeted with smiles and offered mint tea. Lina was particularly fascinated by the local children, who were eager to show her their games and share stories. It was a heartwarming reminder of the simple joys in life. I made sure to pack enough water for all of us, remembering the portable power bank I had forgotten back in Berlin. We definitely needed to stay hydrated under the Moroccan sun.

For lunch, we stopped at Kasbah planète bleue dades. The setting was idyllic, with tables set up on a terrace overlooking the valley. We feasted on a delicious tagine, packed with vegetables and tender lamb. Lina, surprisingly, devoured her portion, declaring it the best meal she had had in Morocco. Mei and I shared a couscous dish, savoring the delicate flavors and spices. The Kasbah planète bleue dades had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were very friendly, making our lunch even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Kasbah Planète Bleue Dades amidst stunning landscapes in Boumalne Dades.

After lunch, we visited Dar Essyaha, a local shop recommended by our guide. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back to Berlin. The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts, from handwoven carpets to intricately carved wooden boxes. I ended up buying a beautiful Berber rug for our living room and a small wooden camel for Lina. Mei found some argan oil, known for its beauty benefits, and we chatted with the shop owner about his craft and his life in the valley.


Discover the serene beauty of Boumalne Dadès at Dar Essyaha, where authentic Moroccan hospitality meets breathtaking landscapes.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Le Basilic Restaurant Des Rêves for dinner. The restaurant had a romantic ambiance, with soft lighting and traditional Moroccan decor. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, followed by a grilled chicken dish for Lina and a traditional tagine for Mei and me. I decided to try their pot-au-feu. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the skill of the chef. We finished the meal with some Moroccan pastries and mint tea, savoring the sweet end to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite Moroccan cuisine at Le Basilic Restaurant Des Rêves, where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Monkey Paw Mountains and the Labyrinth kasbah Dades. We'll start with breakfast at Snack Asderm, have lunch at Canyon Dades Restaurant, and end the day with dinner at Isabel - Chez Moha. I'm also intrigued by the Ayour cafe restaurant, so we might stop there for a drink. I'm looking forward to more adventures and discoveries in this magical valley.

The Dades Valley has a way of getting under your skin. It's not just the stunning landscapes or the delicious food, but the warmth and authenticity of the people. It's a place where time seems to slow down, and you can truly connect with yourself and the world around you. As we head into our eighth day, I am reminded of why I started this blog in the first place: to share these moments of connection and discovery with all of you. Maybe it will inspire you to embark on your own adventure, to step outside your comfort zone, and to find the beauty in the unexpected.