Family Adventure in Morocco's Dades Valley

Dades Valley Delights

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Dades Valley. From exploring dramatic gorges to savoring traditional Moroccan dishes, every moment was a feast for the senses. It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the joy of discovering new places with my family and to inspire others to embark on their own adventures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Snack Adrar in Boumalne Dadès. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm bread filled the air, setting a cheerful tone for the day. I ordered a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (Moroccan pancakes) and mint tea, while Mei opted for a croissant and Lina enjoyed some fruit. Snack Adrar had a cozy atmosphere, perfect for starting our explorations. I chatted briefly with the owner, who recommended we visit the Gorges Dadés early to avoid the crowds. Fueled up, we set off to explore the Gorges Dadés. The drive itself was breathtaking, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the valley. The dramatic rock formations and the lush greenery along the Dadès River created a stunning contrast. I stopped frequently to capture the scenery with my camera, trying to capture the play of light and shadow on the canyon walls. Lina was especially excited, pointing out the various shapes she saw in the rocks, like faces and animals.

Explore Gorges Dadés, a stunning gorge in Morocco known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant colors, and rich Berber culture.

The beauty of the Dades Valley lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people.

As we drove deeper into the gorges, we came across the famous “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs”. These ancient fortified villages, built from mud brick, stood proudly against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. I imagined what life must have been like centuries ago, when these kasbahs served as defensive strongholds and symbols of power. We decided to stop at Citadelle Dades, an ancient fortress turned guesthouse, offering panoramic views of the Dades Valley. Although we didn't stay there, we explored the grounds and learned about its history from a local guide. He explained that the Citadelle dates back to the 18th century and was once a major tower used to control access to the Berber village of Ait Ibrirne. The architecture was fascinating, with thick clay walls and intricate geometric patterns.

Discover the serene beauty of Citadelle Dades in the heart of Morocco's Dades Valley, where authentic hospitality meets breathtaking landscapes.
For lunch, we stopped at Café Achaf, a charming restaurant in Boumalne Dadès known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The café had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with colorful décor and friendly staff. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains while we waited for our food. I ordered a tagine with lamb and vegetables, while Mei chose the couscous with chicken. Lina opted for a simple pasta dish, which the chef happily prepared for her. The food was delicious, bursting with flavors of local spices and fresh ingredients. We ended our meal with traditional mint tea, a refreshing and aromatic drink that perfectly complemented the rich flavors of the tagine.

Discover Café Achaf: A must-visit restaurant in Boumalne Dades offering authentic Moroccan flavors amidst breathtaking scenery.
In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip, we decided to take a break at aubesrges resstauraune zahra. This bar offered a relaxing atmosphere and a chance to unwind after a day of exploration. I ordered a local beer, while Mei enjoyed a refreshing juice. Lina played nearby, enjoying the open space. It was a perfect way to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Experience the charm of Moroccan hospitality at Auberge Restaurant Zahra, a cozy bar in the heart of Tamellalt with stunning views and delightful drinks.
For dinner, we chose auberge restaurant oued dades, drawn in by its excellent reviews and promise of authentic Moroccan cuisine. The auberge was a little outside the main town, offering a tranquil setting. We were greeted warmly by the host, Daoud, who made us feel immediately at home. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate ambiance, with traditional Moroccan décor and soft lighting. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including tagine meatballs with egg, couscous, and grilled meats. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were rich and satisfying. The service was exceptional, with Daoud going out of his way to ensure we had a memorable dining experience. As we ate, we chatted with Daoud about the local culture and history, gaining valuable insights into the region.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality at Auberge Restaurant Oued Dades in beautiful Boumalne Dades.
As the day came to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared as a family. The Dades Valley had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. As we drove back to our accommodation, the stars began to appear in the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere. I couldn't help but feel excited about what tomorrow would bring. We plan to explore more of the Dadès Vallei and hopefully do some hiking at Randonnee Vallee Dades au Maroc. After a quick breakfast at Café Restaurant ANBD, we plan to have lunch at Kasbah planète bleue dades, and dinner at Le Basilic Restaurant Des Rêves. Lina is also excited to check out Dar Essyaha for some local crafts.
Back at our guesthouse, I spent some time reviewing the photos I had taken throughout the day, reliving each moment. Mei and Lina were already asleep, tired from our adventures. I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that we were creating memories that would last a lifetime.
The weather in Dades Valley in September is pleasantly warm and breezy, with average highs around 83°F (28°C) and lows around 58°F (14°C). It’s a comfortable time to visit, though it can get a bit windy. There weren't any specific local events happening today, but the valley itself is a vibrant hub of Berber culture. I’m hoping we might stumble upon some impromptu music or a local gathering tomorrow.
Reflecting on our day, I’m reminded of how travel can broaden our perspectives and deepen our appreciation for different cultures. The Dades Valley is a testament to the beauty and resilience of the human spirit, and I feel privileged to have shared this experience with my family. As I drift off to sleep, I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures, eager to discover more of this enchanting region.