Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley: A Journey with Friends

Dades Valley Delights

Today was a day of exploration and immersion in the Dades Valley, a place that continues to surprise and enchant me with its raw beauty and the warmth of its people. From unique geological formations to delicious local cuisine, every moment was a sensory delight. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling with friends, sharing experiences that etch themselves into our memories forever.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at L’habitan Amazigh. The morning air was crisp as we enjoyed traditional Moroccan fare. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect start before setting off to explore the natural wonders of the valley. It felt great to fuel up for the day ahead, knowing we had a full itinerary planned. I made sure to grab an extra bottle of water, remembering my forgotten sunscreen from the trip essentials—lesson learned !

Our first stop was Kefroun, also known as the Turtle's Back. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Dades Valley. As we approached Kefroun, the landscape transformed into a dramatic display of rock formations, sculpted by centuries of wind and rain. The Turtle's Back itself was an impressive sight, a massive rock formation that truly resembled a turtle's shell. We spent a good hour exploring the area, taking photos, and simply marveling at the natural beauty. The vastness of the landscape made me feel incredibly small, yet connected to something ancient and powerful. Klara would have loved this geological wonder; I know Mateo would have enjoyed climbing all over the rocks.


Discover the breathtaking Kefroun, the Turtle's Back, a stunning natural formation in Taadadate, Morocco, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The beauty of the Dades Valley isn't just in its landscapes, but in the way it connects you to the earth and its people.

Next on our agenda was a hiking experience with Abdo. This was something I was particularly looking forward to, as I had read great reviews about Abdo's knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and Berber culture. We met Abdo near a small village, and he greeted us with a warm smile and a pot of mint tea. As we set off on our hike, Abdo shared stories about the valley's history, the traditions of the Berber people, and the unique ecosystem that thrives in this arid landscape. The hike was challenging at times, with steep inclines and rocky paths, but the views were more than worth it. We passed through lush oases, ancient kasbahs, and met local villagers who welcomed us with open arms. It was an immersive experience that gave us a deeper understanding of the Dades Valley and its people. I made a mental note to bring Klara and Mateo here someday; they would both be captivated by the stories and the scenery.


Explore the breathtaking trails of Hiking With Abdo in Boumalne Dades, Morocco, where nature's beauty and adventure await every hiker.

For lunch, we stopped at Café Restaurant ANBD. This charming establishment is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. We indulged in a variety of dishes, including tagines, couscous, and freshly baked bread. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The restaurant was a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike sharing stories and laughter. It was a perfect place to relax and recharge after our morning adventures. I even tried my hand at a few German idioms with one of the local patrons, a fun way to bridge cultures through language.


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

In the late afternoon, we found ourselves at Café restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR. Although some sources suggest it might be closed, we decided to check it out, and to our surprise, it was open and bustling with activity. We enjoyed some traditional mint tea, soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The café had a lively atmosphere, filled with both locals and tourists. It was a great spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I took the opportunity to practice my photography, capturing the vibrant colors of the landscape and the smiling faces of the people around us. I imagined sharing these photos with my Evendo blog readers, inspiring them to embark on their own Moroccan adventures.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR in Boumalne Dades, where local cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Dar Ahlam Dades hotel for dinner. This hotel is renowned for its exceptional accommodations and blend of traditional Moroccan charm with modern comforts. The dining experience was nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant was beautifully decorated in a Berber style, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. We savored authentic homemade Moroccan dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The lamb tagine was a standout, tender and flavorful, a true culinary delight. The staff was incredibly attentive, ensuring that every detail was perfect. As we dined, we shared stories and laughter, celebrating the bonds of friendship that make these trips so special. The starlit sky provided a magical backdrop, making it a night to remember.


Discover luxury dining and serene accommodations at Dar Ahlam Dades, where authentic Moroccan flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.

Before heading to bed, a few of us decided to check out Café restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR once more for a nightcap. The atmosphere was even more lively, and we enjoyed some local music and engaging conversations with fellow travelers. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration, adventure, and cultural immersion. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience the Dades Valley with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Dadès Gorges and the Labyrinth kasbah Dades. I’m particularly excited about the gorges; I’ve heard they offer some incredible hiking opportunities. We'll also have breakfast at Kasbah planète bleue dades, lunch at Isabel - Chez Moha, and dinner at Café restaurant Ait Moujan. A visit to ORINO SHOP is also on the cards, perhaps to pick up some souvenirs. I'm eager to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring!

As I reflect on today, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the unexpected and connecting with the people and places we encounter along the way. The Dades Valley has a way of capturing your heart, and I am grateful for every moment of this incredible journey.