Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley: A Journey with Friends

Chasing Sunsets and Serpentine Roads

Today was nothing short of spectacular as we ventured deeper into the Dades Valley. The landscapes here are simply breathtaking, a photographer's dream come true. It’s amazing to think that just a short flight from Germany, you can find yourself in such a dramatically different world. The textures, the colors, the sheer scale of everything – it’s all incredibly inspiring.

Our day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Café Restaurant zinyou sud. The mint tea was particularly invigorating, a perfect start to a day of exploration. The café itself was cozy, filled with the aroma of fresh bread and the friendly chatter of locals. It reminded me of some of the small, family-run cafes back in Los Ángeles, Chile, where the sense of community is just as strong. I made a mental note to try and recreate the mint tea when I got back to Potsdam for Klara and Mateo.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Zinyou Sud in Boumalne Dades - where every meal is a celebration of local culture.
Fueled up, we set off to explore the Gorges du Dadès, Maroc. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads clinging to the sides of the canyon walls. The views were simply stunning, with the Dades River snaking its way through the valley below. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the scenery. I really felt like I was in Morocco's Grand Canyon.

The beauty of the Dades Valley lies not just in its dramatic landscapes, but in the way it connects you to the raw, untamed heart of Morocco.

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Gorges du Dadès, a premier hiking destination in Morocco's stunning natural environment.
Next on our list was the famed Tisderine bends, Boumalne Dades. As a mobile app developer specializing in tourism apps, I’m always on the lookout for those iconic spots that define a destination. These bends definitely fit the bill. The road twisted and turned, creating a mesmerizing pattern against the backdrop of the valley. We spent a good hour here, taking photos from every possible angle. I even launched my drone to get an aerial perspective, capturing the full grandeur of the scene. I thought about Mateo and how much he would have loved to see the drone footage.


Explore the breathtaking Tisderine Bends in Boumalne Dades, a captivating natural attraction showcasing Morocco's stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.
For lunch, we stopped at Auberge Restaurant Oued Dades. The restaurant had a lovely terrace overlooking the valley, and we enjoyed a delicious tagine while soaking in the views. The service was warm and welcoming, and the food was authentic and flavorful. It was a welcome break after a morning of driving and hiking. I chatted with the owner about local Berber culture and learned about their traditional way of life. It’s these personal connections that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality at Auberge Restaurant Oued Dades in beautiful Boumalne Dades.
In the late afternoon, we decided to treat ourselves to some local flavors at CAFE RESTAURANT ROOFTOP ATLAS DADES. Sipping on mint tea while watching the sunset over the Atlas Mountains was the perfect way to end the day. The vibrant colors of the sky painted a breathtaking backdrop, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. It was the kind of moment that makes you feel truly grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures.


Discover Rooftop Atlas Dades: A culinary oasis in Boumalne Dades with stunning views and delightful Moroccan and international delicacies.
Dinner was at Chez Pierre. The reviews I had read online raved about its innovative cuisine that fuses European and Moroccan flavors. It was a bit of a splurge, but definitely worth it. The ambiance was elegant yet rustic, and the food was exquisite. I tried a traditional Moroccan dish with a modern twist, and it was simply divine. Klara would have adored the fusion of flavors; I'll have to find a similar restaurant in Potsdam to take her to.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Chez Pierre in Boumalne Dades - where every dish tells a story.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. The Dades Valley has exceeded all my expectations. It’s a place of dramatic beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures, which include visiting Dades view and Dadès Vallei [i]. It's going to be another day of breathtaking views and cultural immersion. I am also excited to try the local cuisine at Café restaurant amazir, Isabel - Chez Moha and Auberge Chez Pierre [i]. I am also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at DADES VERT [i].

Before I drift off to sleep, I should mention that I realized I forgot to pack sunscreen and my travel journal. Fortunately, the Moroccan sun in September is not too intense. I will try to find a journal tomorrow at DADES VERT. Good night from Dades Valley!

The weather in September is pleasantly warm and breezy, with average highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 58°F (14°C). September is also quite dry.

It’s funny, back in Potsdam, I spend so much time working on apps that help people discover places like this, but being here, experiencing it firsthand, is a completely different level of appreciation. I hope my stories and photos inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and explore the world. There’s so much beauty and wonder to discover, and it’s often just a plane ride away.