Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley: A Journey with Friends

A Day of Discovery in the Dades Valley

Today was another incredible day in the Dades Valley, filled with breathtaking landscapes and authentic Moroccan experiences. As I reflect on our adventures, I'm reminded of why I love traveling with friends – the shared moments, the laughter, and the collective awe at the world's beauty make every experience richer. It's days like these that fuel my passion for exploring and sharing these stories with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant ANBD in Boumalne Dades. The warm hospitality and delicious Moroccan pastries set the perfect tone for our explorations. I opted for a traditional tagine, while my friends went for the Berber omelet, and we all shared a pot of mint tea. Fueled up, we set off to explore the natural wonders of the Dades Gorge. I must admit, I did forget to pack sunscreen, a rookie mistake, but I'll be sure to pick some up tomorrow.


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

Our first stop was Azrou n itbirn, a unique rock formation that offered panoramic views of the valley. The landscape was simply stunning, the rugged terrain contrasting beautifully with the clear blue sky. We spent some time taking photos and simply soaking in the view. I couldn't help but think of Mateo and Klara back in Potsdam, wishing they could see this. I made a mental note to find a similar rock for Mateo to climb when I got back to Potsdam.


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

Next on our itinerary was Gorge Miguirne, a hidden gem that required a bit of off-roading to reach. The drive itself was an adventure, the winding roads offering glimpses of local life and stunning vistas. When we arrived, we were greeted by towering rock formations and crystal-clear streams. We decided to take a short hike, navigating through the narrow passages and marveling at the natural sculptures carved by time and the elements. The gorge was refreshingly cool, a welcome respite from the Moroccan sun. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility amidst the towering rocks, a feeling that is rare to find amidst the hustle of daily life.


Explore the breathtaking Gorges of Dadès, a stunning hiking area in Morocco known for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

For lunch, we headed to Maison D'hôtes Restaurant Chez L'habitant Amazigh, a charming guesthouse that promised an authentic Berber dining experience. The restaurant was nestled in a traditional Berber house, adorned with colorful carpets and intricate decorations. We were greeted by the friendly owner, who led us to a cozy dining area with views of the surrounding mountains. The food was incredible, a feast of local specialties prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. We savored the flavors of tagine, couscous, and grilled meats, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of our hosts. The experience felt so authentic, a true immersion into Berber culture. I couldn't help but compare it to some of the more touristy experiences I've had in other countries, and I felt grateful for the genuine connection we were making here.


Discover the charm of Berber culture and cuisine at Maison D'hôtes, a beautiful guest house in Gorges du Dadès offering authentic Moroccan experiences.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Riad Luxury Dades. The shop was filled with handcrafted goods, from carpets and jewelry to pottery and clothing. While my friends haggled for souvenirs, I found myself drawn to a collection of traditional Berber music. I bought a CD, eager to bring the sounds of the Dades Valley back home to Potsdam. I imagined playing it while cooking Chilean dishes for Klara and Mateo, a fusion of cultures that would surely bring a smile to their faces.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Riad Luxury Dades, a serene hotel in the heart of Morocco's Dades Valley, where traditional charm meets modern comfort.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to auberge restaurant oued dades for dinner. The restaurant was located in a picturesque setting, overlooking the Dades River. The ambiance was relaxed and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. We dined on a delicious meal of grilled meats and vegetables, accompanied by local wine. As we ate, we shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about the day's adventures. The camaraderie was palpable, a reminder of the special bond we share as friends.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality at Auberge Restaurant Oued Dades in beautiful Boumalne Dades.

The staff at Auberge Oued Dades were incredibly welcoming. The rooms were clean, fresh, and nicely designed. Many reviewers rave about the exceptional hospitality, clean and fresh rooms, and great food. One guest from Slovenia said they enjoyed the nice design and great food, while a guest from the United States mentioned the extremely friendly and welcoming host. A guest from Japan highlighted the beautiful location and kind host. It seems like a place where you can really feel at home. The location is also a highlight, being close to the Monkey Finger trail, which many recommend. It is wonderful to hear so many positive experiences from fellow travelers.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post under a sky full of stars, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. The Dades Valley has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and authentic experiences. I'm excited for what tomorrow holds, as we continue our exploration of this magical region. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kefroun (turtle's back) and go hiking with Abdo. A little adventure never hurt anyone, and I'm excited to see what the hike entails.

Before I turn in for the night, I want to share a quote that resonates with my experience today:

Travel is not about escaping where you are, but experiencing where you could be.

That's all for today, folks. Stay tuned for more adventures from the Dades Valley!