Solo Journey through the Scenic Ourika Valley

Finding Paradise in the Ourika Valley

Today was a day dedicated to immersing myself in the natural beauty and artistic wonders of the Ourika Valley. Leaving behind the familiar streets of Berlin feels like a distant memory as I fully embrace the vibrant culture and serene landscapes of Morocco. It's moments like these that remind me why I traded my urban garden, at least temporarily, for this solo adventure.

My day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Café Restaurant Azaghar Ourika. The cafe offered a stunning view of the mountains, which, combined with the fresh air, made the tagine taste even better. The staff were incredibly kind, and I enjoyed some mint tea while soaking in the exotic atmosphere.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Ourika Valley at Café Restaurant Azaghar – where flavor meets breathtaking views.

First stop: the bio-aromatique de l'Ourika Garden. This garden is a sensory explosion! From the moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped in a thousand different scents. The garden is beautifully laid out, with little nooks where you can sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. I learned so much about the local plants and their uses, and even enjoyed a relaxing foot bath with aromatic herbs. It was a truly unique and refreshing experience.


Experience serenity at Bio-Aromatique de l'Ourika Garden, where wellness meets nature in the stunning Ourika Valley.

The essence of the Ourika Valley lies not just in its scenic beauty, but in its ability to awaken the senses and nourish the soul.

Next on the agenda was Anima, André Heller's garden. This place is like stepping into a surrealist painting. The garden is filled with sculptures and art installations, all set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. It's a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors and unexpected shapes at every turn. I spent hours wandering through the garden, discovering new surprises around every corner. The fusion of art and nature is truly inspiring.


Experience the serene beauty of Anima Garden in Ourika Valley, a perfect blend of nature and art near Marrakech.

I found myself reflecting on how different this was from my usual gardening projects back in Berlin. While I find joy in transforming urban spaces into green havens, there's something profoundly different about experiencing nature on this scale. It’s a reminder that beauty exists in the grand landscapes as much as in the small details.

Lunch was at Ristorante Almandar. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I tried a traditional Moroccan dish that was bursting with flavor. The charming atmosphere and modern decor made it a perfect spot to relax and recharge after a busy morning of exploring.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Ristorante Almandar in Ourika—an affordable gem surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

In the afternoon, I decided to explore a bit of local craftsmanship at the Khalid Tafza Ourika pottery workshop. I've always admired the intricate designs of Moroccan ceramics, and I was excited to see the process firsthand. The artisans were incredibly welcoming, and I even got to try my hand at the pottery wheel. It was much harder than it looks, but also incredibly rewarding. I ended up buying a small tagine as a souvenir, a tangible reminder of my day in the Ourika Valley.


Discover the art of Moroccan pottery at Khalid Tafza Ourika, where tradition meets creativity in a stunning valley setting.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Auberge Ayam Atlas for dinner. This restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and delicious Moroccan cuisine. I enjoyed a tagine while reflecting on the day's adventures. The staff were friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Auberge Ayam Atlas amidst breathtaking landscapes in Ourika Valley.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit Setti Fadma and the Ourika Valley's famous seven waterfalls. I've heard it's a bit of a hike, so I'll need to make sure I have my comfortable shoes on. I'm also hoping to do some souvenir shopping at La kasbah d'ourika. It sounds like the perfect place to find some unique gifts for Hans and maybe a little something for myself.

Back in Berlin, Hans is probably busy working on his latest software project. I miss him, of course, but I know he's happy for me to have this solo adventure. We both believe in the importance of pursuing our passions, whether it's coding or exploring new cultures. And who knows, maybe I'll bring back some inspiration for my urban gardening projects.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a moment to simply breathe in the crisp mountain air and listen to the sounds of the valley. It's moments like these that make me feel truly alive. The Ourika Valley has a way of captivating the senses and nourishing the soul. It's a place where nature and art come together in perfect harmony, creating an experience that is both inspiring and unforgettable.

As I reflect on today's journey, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such profound beauty. This solo trip is not just about seeing new places; it's about connecting with myself and the world around me. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I know that the memories of the Ourika Valley will stay with me long after I return to Berlin.