Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley with Friends

Scent of Roses, Echoes of History

Today was a sensory feast, a vibrant tapestry woven with the delicate fragrance of roses and the imposing presence of ancient architecture. From the moment we set out, I knew this would be a day etched in my memory, a beautiful blend of nature's artistry and human history. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable comfort of my Heidelberg garden for the unpredictable allure of the open road.

Our first stop was the enchanting Roses Valley. Though I know the full bloom happens in spring, around April and May when the Rose Festival takes place, the air still carried a sweet, subtle perfume. I learned that during the Rose Festival a Rose Queen is elected to reign over the year's scented crop. The purpose of the festival is for rose farmers to celebrate the year's crops and to celebrate the beauty of nature. Even in October, the valley offered a serene beauty, a peaceful contrast to the rugged mountains surrounding it. The industriousness of the local women was evident; I could almost picture them during the harvest, their hands deftly gathering the precious petals that would eventually become rosewater, soaps, and perfumes.


Discover the beauty of Roses Valley, a breathtaking floral paradise in Morocco, where vibrant gardens and rich culture await every traveler.

Klaus, ever the architect, was fascinated by the terraced farms clinging to the hillsides, marveling at the ingenuity of the Berber people who have cultivated this land for generations. I, of course, was captivated by the idea of returning in the springtime to witness the valley in its full floral glory. I made a mental note to learn a few more German idioms to describe the experience – perhaps something about a 'rosaroter Brille,' seeing the world through rose-tinted glasses!

We paused for breakfast at CAFE RESTAURANT AIT SEDRAT. The terrace offered a panoramic view of the valley and the majestic rock formations. I savored a traditional Berber omelet, while Klaus enjoyed strong Moroccan coffee. It was the perfect start to our day, fueling us for the adventures ahead.


Discover exquisite grilled delicacies at Café Restaurant Ait Sedrat in Gorge Dades - where Moroccan flavors meet stunning landscapes.

The beauty of the Roses Valley lies not just in its fragrant blooms, but in the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who call it home.

Our next destination was La Porte du Dades, a striking example of Berber architecture. As we approached, the kasbah rose majestically against the clear blue sky, a testament to the enduring spirit of this land. Inside, the air was cool and hushed, a welcome respite from the midday sun. We wandered through the traditional rooms, admiring the intricate tadelakt walls and the handcrafted details that spoke of a rich cultural heritage.


Discover the charm of La Porte du Dades, a tranquil guest house in the heart of Morocco's stunning Dades Valley, blending comfort with authentic local experiences.

Olivia, always eager to learn, peppered our guide with questions about the history of the kasbah and the families who had lived within its walls. Klaus, meanwhile, was busy sketching the architectural details in his notebook, capturing the essence of the building's design. I found myself drawn to the rooftop terrace, where the panoramic view of the landscape was simply breathtaking. From there, I could see the winding roads snaking through the Dades Valley, the lush oases clinging to the riverbanks, and the towering peaks of the Atlas Mountains in the distance.

Lunch was at Le Basilic Restaurant Des Rêves. The restaurant was beautiful and had a great atmosphere. I chose a tagine with lemon and olives, a flavorful dish that perfectly captured the essence of Moroccan cuisine. Klaus opted for grilled meats, savoring the smoky flavors and the tender texture. Olivia, ever adventurous, tried the local specialty, a pigeon pastilla, and declared it surprisingly delicious.


Experience exquisite Moroccan cuisine at Le Basilic Restaurant Des Rêves, where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

In the late afternoon, we found ourselves at Canyon Dades Restaurant, a charming establishment known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and stunning canyon views. We didn't have a full meal, but we stopped at the bar for drinks. The Canyon Dades Restaurant is an ideal stop while exploring the region. Sipping mint tea, we watched as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape. The air was cool and still, and the only sound was the gentle murmur of conversation from the other patrons. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a perfect ending to a day filled with beauty and wonder.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Dades Valley at Canyon Dades Restaurant.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Auberge Miguirne chez Ali for dinner. This restaurant and guest house is located in the heart of the Dades Valley. The auberge boasts a cozy atmosphere. The menu featured traditional Moroccan cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients. I enjoyed a hearty tagine, while Klaus sampled the flavorful couscous. Olivia chose a vegetarian option, a fragrant vegetable tagine that was both delicious and satisfying. The warm hospitality of the staff made us feel like welcome guests, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains added to the overall experience.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Auberge Miguirne chez Ali in the stunning Dades Valley - a perfect blend of adventure and culinary delights.

We lingered over our meal, savoring the flavors and the memories of the day. As we walked back to our guesthouse, the stars twinkled brightly in the night sky, and the air was filled with the scent of woodsmoke and spices. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey, for the opportunity to explore new places and experience new cultures.

Tomorrow, we are planning to do some trekking. We'll be venturing into the heart of the Dades Gorge with DADES TREKKING and Hiking With Abdo. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of hiking through the Monkey Fingers Canyon, a natural rock formation that promises stunning views and a thrilling adventure. And of course, we'll be sure to sample the local cuisine at Soffi Cafe Restaurant for breakfast, Kasbah planète bleue dades for lunch, and Restaurant Fatima Berber gorges du dades for dinner. I am also hoping to visit Riad Luxury dades. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

As I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of the adventures that await us tomorrow. The Dades Valley has captured my heart, and I know that I will carry its beauty and its spirit with me long after I've left its rugged landscapes behind. I am also glad that I remembered to pack my hiking boots!