A Solo Journey into the Heart of Ourika Valley

A Valley Remembered

As my final day in the Ourika Valley drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I've had this past week. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the stunning landscapes and the warmth of the Berber people. This solo journey has been a beautiful blend of adventure and introspection, and I'm so grateful for every moment. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of this magical place and finding the perfect memento to bring home.

My morning started with a delightful breakfast at Dar Zohra Boutique Guesthouse. The fresh air and the view of the valley as I sipped my coffee made it a truly serene experience. It’s funny how quickly a place can feel like home, even when you’re miles away from your familiar Delft. I made a mental note to try and recreate the mint tea when I got back – Pieter would love it! After breakfast, I decided to revisit Ourika Oufla, wanting to etch its beauty into my memory one last time.


Discover the beauty of Ourika Valley at Ourika Oufla, a serene holiday apartment rental surrounded by nature and rich Berber culture.

The village was already buzzing with activity. Locals were setting up their stalls, and the air was filled with the sounds of bartering and laughter. I wandered through the streets, taking in the sights and smells. The vibrant colors of the textiles, the aroma of spices, and the friendly faces of the people made it an immersive experience. I paused to watch a group of children playing, their joy infectious. It reminded me of my own childhood in Rimouski, exploring the forests and shores of Bas-Saint-Laurent. Those early experiences instilled in me a love for nature and a thirst for adventure, which ultimately led me to places like this.

Next on my list was La vallée d'ourika, a place I had only glimpsed in passing earlier in the week. I wanted to take a leisurely stroll and fully appreciate its beauty. The valley was even more stunning than I remembered. The Ourika River flowed gently through the landscape, nourishing the terraced fields and creating a soothing melody. I walked along the riverbank, admiring the lush greenery and the wildflowers that lined the path. I thought about Pieter and how much he would have loved this. We’ve always shared a love for the outdoors, and I knew he would appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of this place.


Explore the stunning La Vallée d'Ourika, a natural paradise in Morocco with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant Berber villages.

The best souvenirs aren't things, but moments.

Lunchtime found me at Hôtel Restaurant Azro, a charming spot with a terrace overlooking the valley. I ordered a traditional tagine, savoring the flavors of Morocco one last time. As I ate, I reflected on the incredible meals I’ve had throughout the week. From the flavorful couscous to the aromatic spices, Moroccan cuisine has been a delightful culinary journey. I even picked up a few new recipes to try at home, hoping to add a bit of Moroccan flair to our dinners in Delft.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Hôtel Restaurant Azro in Ourika Valley - a tranquil retreat with exquisite dining options.

After lunch, I decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. I had been eyeing a beautiful Berber carpet all week, and I knew this was my last chance to get it. I headed to The Carpet Source, a local shop known for its authentic, handmade rugs. The shop was filled with carpets of all shapes, sizes, and colors. The owner, a friendly Berber man, greeted me warmly and offered me a glass of mint tea. We chatted for a while about the history and craftsmanship of the carpets. He explained that each rug is unique, telling a story through its intricate patterns and designs. I learned that Berber carpets are typically made from hand-knotting organic, undyed natural sheep’s wool. The women weave Berber carpets made from wool and cotton.


Explore the enchanting world of handmade rugs at The Carpet Source, where Moroccan artistry meets breathtaking landscapes in Ourika.

I spent a good hour browsing through the selection, carefully examining each rug. I was drawn to one in particular – a vibrant piece with geometric patterns in shades of red, orange, and brown. It reminded me of the colors of the desert and the warmth of the Moroccan sun. I knew it would be the perfect addition to our living room in Delft, adding a touch of exotic flair to our cozy home. After a bit of haggling (a must in Morocco!), I struck a deal with the owner and purchased the carpet. I couldn’t wait to bring it home and show it to Pieter.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to La Clé Des Huiles Ourika for my final dinner in the valley. The restaurant was nestled in a quiet corner, surrounded by lush gardens. The atmosphere was peaceful and romantic, the perfect setting for a farewell meal. I ordered a selection of Moroccan delicacies, savoring each bite. As I ate, I thought about all the things I had seen and done this week. I had hiked to waterfalls, explored Berber villages, learned about Argan oil production at a women's cooperative , and immersed myself in the local culture. It had been an incredible journey, one that I would never forget.


Discover La Clé Des Huiles Ourika - A serene dining experience surrounded by nature's beauty with exquisite Moroccan cuisine.

After dinner, I took a final stroll through the valley, breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sounds of the night. The stars were out, and the sky was ablaze with light. I felt a sense of peace and contentment, knowing that I had made the most of my time here. As I packed my bags, I carefully wrapped the Berber carpet, knowing that it would be more than just a souvenir. It would be a reminder of the beauty, warmth, and adventure that I had experienced in the Ourika Valley. A reminder of the Berber women and their artistry.

Tomorrow, I’ll be heading back to Marrakech to catch my flight home. It’s always bittersweet to leave a place you’ve grown to love, but I know that I’ll carry the memories of Ourika with me always. I’m looking forward to seeing Pieter and sharing my stories with him. I can’t wait to decorate our home with the beautiful Berber carpet and to try out my new Moroccan recipes. This solo journey has been a wonderful experience, but I’m also excited to return to my life in Delft and to continue exploring the world with my favorite travel partner.

As I close this chapter, I am already dreaming of my next adventure. Perhaps Pieter and I will explore the tulip fields of the Netherlands in the spring, or maybe we’ll venture further afield to discover new cultures and landscapes. The world is full of possibilities, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

For now, though, I’ll cherish the memories of the Ourika Valley and the lessons I’ve learned here. This solo journey has reminded me of the importance of connecting with nature, embracing new cultures, and finding joy in the simple things. And as I drift off to sleep, I’ll be dreaming of Berber carpets, mint tea, and the warm smiles of the people who have made this journey so special.