Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley: A Journey with Friends

Valley of Roses and Canyon Walls

Today was a day of sensory overload, in the best possible way. From the fragrant Roses Valley, Dades Valley unveiled its raw beauty and left me utterly speechless. It was a day of exploration, good food, and even better company, as we continued our journey through Morocco with my closest friends. Each moment felt like a scene from a movie, and I couldn't wait to capture it all through my lens and share it with you.


Discover the beauty of Roses Valley, a breathtaking floral paradise in Morocco, where vibrant gardens and rich culture await every traveler.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Snack Adrar. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. The simple meal was the perfect fuel for the day’s adventures ahead. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy. It reminded me of the small, family-run restaurants back in Los Ángeles, Chile, where the food is always made with love.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack Adrar in Boumalne Dades – where every meal tells a story.

Our first stop was the famed Roses Valley. While I had envisioned fields upon fields of vibrant blooms, I learned that the roses are typically harvested in April and May. Still, the valley was beautiful, with lush greenery contrasting against the red rock formations. We took a leisurely stroll through the valley, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The air was filled with a subtle, sweet fragrance, a gentle reminder of the roses that once blanketed this very ground. I could only imagine what it must be like during the rose harvest, with the entire valley bursting with color and aroma. Perhaps I'll have to plan a return trip sometime in the spring.

I found myself reflecting on the journey so far. It's not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing them with people who make the journey even more special. I am grateful for the bond we share, and I know that these are the moments we will cherish for years to come. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the beauty of life and the importance of human connection. Klara would have loved this place, I thought, as I snapped another picture, Mateo would have probably been running around chasing butterflies.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but also in the memories you create there.

Next, we ventured towards the Entrée du canyon, the gateway to the Dades Gorge. The landscape transformed dramatically as we approached the canyon. Towering rock formations loomed over us, their colors ranging from deep reds to earthy browns. The sheer scale of the canyon was awe-inspiring, a testament to the power of nature and the passage of time. We spent a good hour simply taking in the views, snapping photos, and marveling at the geological wonders around us. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things. It reminded me a bit of the Grand Canyon, which I saw years ago. This one, however, had a charm all its own.


Explore the stunning Entrée du Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder in Morocco, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

For lunch, we stopped at Café Achaf, a local eatery with stunning views of the valley. I decided to try a traditional Berber tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables. The flavors were rich and complex, a delightful blend of spices that warmed me from the inside out. It was the perfect meal to enjoy while gazing at the breathtaking scenery. I made a mental note to try and recreate the tagine back home in Potsdam, though I knew it wouldn't taste quite the same without the Moroccan sunshine and the stunning views.


Discover Café Achaf: A must-visit restaurant in Boumalne Dades offering authentic Moroccan flavors amidst breathtaking scenery.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to unwind at Snack Asderm, a local bar. We sat outside, sipping on refreshing mint tea and enjoying the lively atmosphere. It was a great opportunity to mingle with locals and learn more about their way of life. I always find it fascinating to connect with people from different cultures and hear their stories. It broadens my perspective and reminds me of the shared humanity that connects us all. I shared some anecdotes about my life in Germany, about Klara and Mateo, and about my passion for developing tourism apps that connect people with authentic travel experiences.


Experience the authentic taste of Morocco at Snack Asderm, a charming restaurant in Boumalne Dades offering traditional dishes and warm hospitality.

For our final meal of the day, we headed to Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt. This place came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant is known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. We indulged in a feast of local delicacies, including couscous, grilled meats, and an assortment of salads. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. What made the experience even more special was the restaurant's location, nestled in a traditional Berber house with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The cozy atmosphere and the delicious food made it a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt in Boumalne Dades' breathtaking Dades Gorge.

As I reflect on today’s adventures, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region of Morocco with my friends. Each day brings new discoveries, new experiences, and new connections. I am constantly amazed by the beauty of the landscapes, the richness of the culture, and the warmth of the people. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone, embracing new experiences, and connecting with the world around me. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our journey through the Dades Valley, exploring Azrou n itbirn and Gorge miguirne. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting some local shops, perhaps even Riad Luxury dades, to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Klara and Mateo. Good night from Dades Valley! I can't wait to share tomorrow's adventures with you all.

Oh, and I almost forgot! I did manage to find a small shop selling local crafts, and I picked up a beautiful, hand-woven rug for our living room in Potsdam. I can already picture it adding a touch of Moroccan charm to our home. It's these little souvenirs that make travel so special, tangible reminders of the places we've been and the memories we've made. I think Klara will adore it.

And, as I sit here writing, I realize that I forgot to buy sunscreen and a travel journal! I will have to make sure to get them tomorrow!

Thinking about the rest of the trip, I am also excited about the prospect of bringing some Argan oil home, especially after reading about the Argan Oil Festival in Essaouira. It would be a lovely, sustainable gift, reminiscent of this beautiful journey.

I might even try to find some inspiration for new features for my tourism app, maybe incorporating some of the local Berber traditions and stories. Who knows, perhaps I could even partner with some local artisans to sell their crafts through the app, creating a sustainable platform for their businesses. The possibilities are endless!

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in the Dades Valley. Until tomorrow!