Exploring the Enchanting Dades Valley with Family

Immersing Ourselves in the Heart of the Dades Valley

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of Morocco's Dadès Vallei. From the moment we woke up, the dramatic landscapes and rich Berber culture enveloped us, creating an unforgettable experience. It was a day filled with exploration, delicious food, and a deeper connection with the local traditions.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Auberge Miguirne chez Ali. The morning air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the nearby mountains. Ali's auberge was incredibly charming, decorated in traditional Berber style, with colorful rugs and intricate details. The breakfast itself was a feast for the senses: fresh omelettes, warm bread, local jams, and, of course, plenty of mint tea. Sipping the sweet, fragrant tea while overlooking the valley was the perfect way to start our day. Sophie was particularly taken with the Berber carpets, asking about the symbols and their meanings. It was a great opportunity to share some of the historical context I've learned in my work as a librarian.


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

Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set out to explore the Dadès Vallei. The valley itself is a geological marvel, with its towering cliffs and winding roads carved by the Dadès River over millennia. The landscape was breathtaking, and I found myself constantly reaching for my camera, trying to capture the sheer scale and beauty of it all. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the way the local architecture blended seamlessly with the environment, noting the use of traditional mudbrick techniques.

“The beauty of Dades Valley lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the warmth and resilience of its Berber people, who have thrived here for centuries.”

Our main activity for the day was a randonnée, a hike, through the Vallée Dades au Maroc. We opted for a moderate trail, suitable for the whole family, that promised stunning views and a chance to interact with local Berber communities. As we walked, we passed through small villages, where the locals greeted us with warm smiles and waves. It was humbling to witness their way of life, so different from our own, yet so deeply connected to the land.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Dades Valley, Morocco—an outdoor paradise for every adventurer.

I was struck by the resourcefulness of the Berber people, who have managed to cultivate the land in this harsh environment for centuries. We saw intricate irrigation systems, terraced fields, and orchards bursting with fruit. It was a testament to their ingenuity and hard work. Sophie, always curious about local customs, peppered our guide with questions about Berber traditions, clothing, and music. I was so proud of her inquisitive spirit and her genuine interest in learning about different cultures.

For lunch, we stopped at Snack Adrar, a small, unassuming restaurant that came highly recommended. The reviews were spot on! We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties: tagine, couscous, and grilled meats. The flavors were rich and complex, a delightful blend of spices and herbs. Even Hans, who is usually a creature of habit, raved about the tagine, declaring it the best he'd ever had. Snack Adrar had a cozy atmosphere, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after our hike.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack Adrar in Boumalne Dades – where every meal tells a story.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip behind the mountains, casting long shadows across the valley, we made our way to Auberge La Fibule Du Dades for dinner. This auberge was known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and its stunning views of the Dades Gorges. We were not disappointed. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art, and the ambiance was magical. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening air and the panoramic views, as we savored our meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Auberge La Fibule Du Dades, nestled in the breathtaking Dades Gorges, where adventure meets tranquility.

As the evening drew to a close, we decided to experience a bit of the local nightlife. We ventured to a local bar called Night Club. Now, I'm not usually one for nightclubs, but I was curious to see what the nightlife scene was like in the Dades Valley. The club was surprisingly lively, with a mix of locals and tourists dancing to Moroccan beats and modern electronic music. It was a fun, energetic atmosphere, and we enjoyed watching the locals let loose and have a good time. Sophie, of course, was in her element, dancing the night away with newfound friends. Hans and I mostly watched from the sidelines, enjoying the spectacle and the lively music.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ouarzazate at this popular night club, where music, dance, and local culture come alive.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the Dades Valley with my family. It was a day of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments. I am particularly grateful for the warm hospitality of the Berber people, who welcomed us into their homes and shared their traditions with us. It is experiences like these that remind me of the importance of travel, of connecting with different cultures, and of broadening our perspectives.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Gorges Dadés and visit Dar Blues. I’m eager to see more of the dramatic landscapes and discover more about the local music scene. I’ve heard that Dar Blues is a unique cultural center, showcasing the region's musical heritage. I am also looking forward to trying more local cuisine, with breakfast at Snack Asderm, lunch at Cafe restaurant Des Amis, and dinner at Auberge La Vallée des Figues. And perhaps, if we have time, we'll do a little shopping at Riad Luxury dades. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery.

The Dades Valley has truly captured my heart. It is a place of stark beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking an authentic Moroccan experience. As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. I am so glad we decided to include this hidden gem in our Moroccan adventure.

The air is cool and crisp here in Dades Valley, and I'm reminded that I forgot my travel journal at home! I'll have to make sure to jot down all of these memories as soon as I can. It's these little details that make travel so memorable, isn't it? Good night from Morocco!