Family Adventure in Morocco's Dades Valley

A Day of Discovery in the Dades Valley

Today was a sensory feast, a deep dive into the heart of Morocco's Dades Valley. The landscapes here are simply breathtaking, and the Berber culture is so vibrant and welcoming. It's days like these that make all the planning and travel worthwhile. I'm excited to share our adventures from today, September 3rd, as we explored hidden gems and soaked in the local atmosphere with Mei and Lina.

Our day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Cafe restaurant Des Amis. The views overlooking the Dades Gorge were the perfect accompaniment to the traditional pastries and mint tea. Lina was particularly fascinated by the intricate patterns on the teacups, a small detail that sparked a lovely conversation about local artistry. After breakfast, we set off to explore Azrou n itbirn.


Explore Azrou n Itbirn, a captivating tourist attraction in Boumalne Dades, where stunning landscapes meet rich Moroccan culture.

The drive to Azrou n itbirn was an adventure in itself. The winding roads offered panoramic views of the valley, with its kasbahs and lush fields contrasting against the rugged cliffs. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a rocky terrain, and the air felt crisper. It was a moderately challenging climb, but the views from the top were absolutely worth it. From our vantage point, the entire Dades Valley unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of green and ochre hues. Lina was thrilled to spot a few eagles soaring overhead, adding to the magical atmosphere. I managed to capture some stunning photos, hoping to convey the sheer scale and beauty of this place.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

Next on our itinerary was exploring the Dadès Vallei itself. We drove along the famous Dades Gorges, stopping frequently to admire the dramatic rock formations and capture the scenery. The valley is often called the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, and it’s easy to see why. These ancient fortresses, built from mud brick, dot the landscape, each with its own unique story to tell. We even managed to find a spot where local kids were selling handmade crafts. Lina picked out a small, colorful bracelet, a perfect souvenir to remind her of our time here. The weather in September is quite pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings. It’s ideal for exploring without the intense heat of summer, though I was glad I packed a portable power bank, remembering I'd almost forgotten it amidst the pre-trip rush. The bright sunshine was perfect for photography, allowing me to capture the vibrant colors of the valley in their full glory.

For lunch, we stopped at Auberge Chez Pierre. This charming guesthouse and restaurant is nestled in a serene spot, offering stunning views of the valley. The food was absolutely delicious, a fusion of Moroccan and European flavors. We savored a tagine cooked with local ingredients, and Lina enjoyed a simple yet flavorful pasta dish. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was a perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing our adventure.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Auberge Chez Pierre in Boumalne Dades, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

In the late afternoon, we made a stop at DADES VERT. I was hoping to find some unique, locally made goods, and I wasn't disappointed. The shop had a great selection of Berber carpets, pottery, and jewelry. Mei found a beautiful silver necklace, a perfect reminder of our trip. I picked up a small, intricately carved wooden box, ideal for storing my photography accessories. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and it felt good to contribute to the community in this way. Lina was fascinated by the vibrant colors and patterns, and she even tried her hand at bargaining for a small trinket.


Discover the essence of Moroccan beauty at DADES VERT in Kalaat M'Gouna, where tradition meets quality in every product.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to kasbah Amlal for dinner. This traditional Moroccan house offered an authentic dining experience, with delicious food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We sat on cushions around a low table, enjoying a feast of local specialties. The tagine was rich and flavorful, and the couscous was light and fluffy. The staff at Kasbah Amlal were incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. The kasbah itself was beautifully decorated, with intricate tilework and traditional furnishings. It felt like stepping back in time, experiencing the true essence of Moroccan hospitality.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Kasbah Amlal - your gateway to culinary delights and breathtaking views in Dades Valley.

“Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.” – Gaby Basora

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll around the kasbah, admiring the stars and enjoying the cool evening air. Lina was tired but happy, her eyes sparkling with the memories of the day. As we headed back to our guesthouse, I reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared. The Dades Valley had truly captured our hearts, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm, welcoming people. It’s a place that I know we’ll remember for years to come.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the Monkey finger viewpoint and explore the Gorges du Dadès, Maroc. We’ll start our day with breakfast at Café restaurant amazir, followed by lunch at Auberge Miguirne chez Ali. In the evening, we’ll have dinner at Chez Pierre and perhaps unwind at Café restaurant Ait Moujan. I’m excited to see what new adventures tomorrow brings, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

As I sit here writing, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Morocco has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. I am glad that Mei and Lina are with me, experiencing the beauty and wonder of this magical place. It's moments like these that make our family bond even stronger, and I wouldn't trade them for anything.