Exploring the Natural Beauty of Ourika Valley

Sensory Overload in Ourika Valley

Today was a symphony for the senses, a deep dive into the artistic and aromatic heart of the Ourika Valley. Leaving behind the familiar buzz of Berlin feels like stepping into another world, and each day here unfolds with new and unexpected treasures. I'm especially grateful to be sharing this experience with friends; their laughter and camaraderie amplify every moment.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Aghbalou House. The family-friendly atmosphere was so welcoming, and the Moroccan charm radiated from every corner. Sipping mint tea while overlooking the valley was the perfect way to start our explorations.


Experience the beauty of Ourika Valley at Aghbalou House—where family-friendly hospitality meets Moroccan charm.

Aromatic Awakening at bio-aromatique de l'Ourika Garden

Our first stop was the bio-aromatique de l'Ourika Garden. As an urban beekeeper, I'm naturally drawn to the botanical world, but this garden was something else entirely. It was more than just a collection of plants; it was an immersive experience. The air was thick with the scents of herbs and flowers, each one telling a story of traditional Moroccan life. We wandered through the garden, learning about the medicinal properties of various plants and their uses in local traditions. The garden is beautifully maintained, and it was easy to see why it’s so highly rated.


Explore the fragrant world of the Bio-Aromatique de l'Ourika Garden, where nature's beauty meets wellness in the heart of Morocco's Ourika Valley.

The garden was a sensory explosion, a testament to the power of nature and the beauty of traditional Moroccan practices.

We enjoyed a refreshing tisane, made from the garden's own herbs, and I couldn't resist picking up a few aromatic oils to bring back to Berlin. I can already imagine incorporating these scents into my beekeeping practice, perhaps creating a special honey infused with Moroccan herbs. I am always looking for new ways to bring in sustainable elements into my work and life. Hans would love this place; I’ll have to bring him here someday.

Artistic Wonder at Anima Garden

Next on our itinerary was Anima (André Heller Garden). This garden, created by the Austrian artist André Heller, is a stunning blend of art and nature. As we strolled along the winding paths, we were greeted by vibrant sculptures nestled among lush greenery. The Atlas Mountains provided a breathtaking backdrop, making the experience even more surreal.


Discover the enchanting Anima Garden in Marrakech, a botanical paradise filled with vibrant flora, art, and tranquility, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

The garden featured works by renowned artists like Picasso, Keith Haring, and Auguste Rodin. It was incredible to see these masterpieces set against the natural beauty of the Ourika Valley. The garden truly lived up to its reputation as a magical place of sensuality, wonder, and inspiration. The blend of art and nature created a stimulating environment, perfect for reflection and creativity.


We stopped at the Café Paul Bowles for lunch, enjoying refined Moroccan cuisine made with ingredients from the garden. The flavors were incredible, and the view from the café was simply breathtaking. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of Anima Garden.

Crafting Memories at Khalid Tafza Ourika Pottery Workshop

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Khalid Tafza Ourika pottery workshop. I’ve always admired the intricate designs of Moroccan ceramics, and I was excited to try my hand at this ancient craft. The workshop was filled with vibrant colors and the rhythmic sounds of artisans at work. We were greeted warmly and given a hands-on demonstration of pottery making.


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

Under the guidance of skilled artisans, we learned the techniques of shaping clay and creating our own unique pieces. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding to mold the clay with my own hands. I even managed to create a small bowl, which I’m excited to bring back to Berlin as a souvenir. The experience provided a deeper understanding of Moroccan culture and the importance of preserving traditional crafts.

A Culinary Finale at Restaurant La Nature

As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at Restaurant La Nature. The cozy atmosphere was perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. We savored traditional Moroccan dishes, reflecting on the day's adventures. The flavors of the tagine were rich and satisfying, a perfect end to our sensory journey.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Restaurant La Nature in Ourika Valley.

Tomorrow's Adventure

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore more of the natural beauty of the Ourika Valley with a visit to Vallée de l'OURIKA and the Maison du meunier berbère. I’m particularly excited about seeing the traditional Berber mill. And perhaps we'll end the day with a drink at Churchill Bar.


Today was a reminder of why I love to travel: to experience new cultures, connect with nature, and create lasting memories with friends. The Ourika Valley has a way of captivating the soul, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.


What I forgot today was my sunglasses. The sun here can be quite intense, especially when you're spending the day outdoors. I will make sure to pack them tomorrow! I also wish I had brought a portable phone charger. All the photo-taking drained my battery quicker than expected!


I am so happy that I decided to come to Ourika Valley with my friends. I am learning so much about myself and the world around me. This is something that I will never forget. I hope that Hans and I can come back here together someday. Perhaps we can even bring our future children here to experience the beauty and culture of Morocco.