Exploring the Enchanting Dades Valley with Family

Day 9: A Day of Wonders in the Dades Gorges

Discover the dramatic landscapes of Gorges Dadés, savor local flavors, and find unique treasures in the heart of Morocco.

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Exploring the Heart of the Dades Valley


Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true immersion into the raw beauty and vibrant culture of the Dades Valley. The landscapes here are simply breathtaking, and every moment felt like stepping into a postcard. From exploring dramatic gorges to savoring authentic Moroccan cuisine, today was a sensory feast.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Snack Asderm. The aroma of freshly baked bread and mint tea filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventures. It’s amazing how a simple meal can taste so extraordinary when enjoyed amidst such stunning scenery. We shared stories and laughter with the family, making the experience even more special.

Experience the authentic taste of Morocco at Snack Asderm, a charming restaurant in Boumalne Dades offering traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
Experience the authentic taste of Morocco at Snack Asderm, a charming restaurant in Boumalne Dades offering traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the famed Gorges Dadés. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads clinging to the sides of towering cliffs. The views were simply mesmerizing, a panorama of rugged red valleys carved over millions of years by the Dades River. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the scenery with my camera, trying to freeze those moments in time. Sophie was particularly thrilled, pointing out rock formations that resembled fantastical creatures.

Explore Gorges Dadés, a stunning gorge in Morocco known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant colors, and rich Berber culture.
Explore Gorges Dadés, a stunning gorge in Morocco known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant colors, and rich Berber culture.
We decided to take a short hike to truly appreciate the scale and grandeur of the gorges. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional birdsong. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Hans, ever the practical one, made sure we had plenty of water and sunscreen. He always looks out for us.
The Dades Valley is more than just a destination; it's an experience that touches the soul and awakens the senses.
After our hike, we drove a bit further into the valley and visited Dar Blues. This traditional Berber palace is a true gem, hand-crafted by its owner, Mustapha Azarag. The architecture is stunning, with intricate designs and vibrant colors that reflect the local culture. We were greeted with warm hospitality and offered refreshing mint tea. It felt like stepping into another world, a place of tranquility and beauty.

Discover the essence of Moroccan hospitality at Dar Blues, your tranquil guest house in the stunning landscapes of Boumalne.
Discover the essence of Moroccan hospitality at Dar Blues, your tranquil guest house in the stunning landscapes of Boumalne.
Mustapha shared stories of his life and the history of Dar Blues. He explained how he incorporated elements from various inspirations into the design, creating a unique and inviting space. Sophie was fascinated by the traditional Berber style and the cozy environment. I admired the way Mustapha blended traditional architecture with modern comforts.

For lunch, we stopped at Cafe restaurant Des Amis. The cafe offered stunning views of the Dades Gorge, making our meal even more enjoyable. We savored authentic Moroccan flavors, indulging in tagines and couscous dishes. The spices were fragrant, and the flavors were rich and complex. It was a true culinary delight.

Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Des Amis with stunning views of Dades Gorge – a culinary delight for every traveler.
Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Des Amis with stunning views of Dades Gorge – a culinary delight for every traveler.
After lunch, we decided to explore a bit of local shopping. We stopped at Riad Luxury dades. While I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs, I was also struck by the beauty of the riad itself. The rooms were beautifully decorated, capturing the essence of traditional Moroccan architecture while providing modern comforts. We didn't buy anything, but the visit was worth it to admire the craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Riad Luxury Dades, a serene hotel in the heart of Morocco's Dades Valley, where traditional charm meets modern comfort.
Experience the enchanting beauty of Riad Luxury Dades, a serene hotel in the heart of Morocco's Dades Valley, where traditional charm meets modern comfort.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Auberge La Vallée des Figues for dinner. This charming guesthouse is nestled in a picturesque setting, surrounded by fig trees and stunning mountain views. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and we felt right at home. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Dades Gorge at Auberge La Vallée des Figues, a perfect blend of comfort and authentic Moroccan hospitality.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Dades Gorge at Auberge La Vallée des Figues, a perfect blend of comfort and authentic Moroccan hospitality.
We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties, savoring the flavors of Morocco one last time for the day. The tagine was particularly memorable, cooked to perfection with tender meat and fragrant spices. Sophie even tried some new vegetables, which was a small victory in itself. After dinner, we sat on the terrace, gazing at the stars and reflecting on our incredible day.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit La Porte du Dades and meet with an Official Tour Guide Gorge Dades. I am eager to learn more about the history and geology of this region. We might even visit maison isabel on the rocks for a drink in the evening, as a way of celebrating this incredible journey.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. The Dades Valley is a truly special place, a hidden gem in the heart of Morocco. I encourage anyone planning a trip to Morocco to include this valley in their itinerary. You won't be disappointed.

Good night from Dades Valley!
Go to day 8 A Day of Berber Culture and Natural Wonders in Dades Valley
Go to day 10 A Day Among the Rocks and Rivers of Dades Valley
trip photo
Exploring the Enchanting Dades Valley with Family

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Morocco's Dades Valley on a family adventure blending history, nature, and local traditions.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Nathalie Bernard
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Librarian specializing in historical archives
  • Country icon Country: Switzerland
  • Age icon Age: 47

Bonjour, fellow travelers! I'm Nathalie, a librarian from France with a passion for history and a love for exploring the world. My blog is a place where I share my travel experiences, blending historical facts with personal anecdotes to create narratives that are both educational and entertaining. Join me as I uncover hidden gems, delve into local traditions, and seek out unique and authentic destinations. I hope to inspire you to embark on your own journeys of discovery!

Interests:
  • History
  • Genealogy
  • Art History
  • Reading
  • Learning new languages
More about Nathalie Bernard

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Gorges Dadés

    Explore Gorges Dadés, a stunning gorge in Morocco known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant colors, and rich Berber culture.

  • Dar Blues

    Discover the essence of Moroccan hospitality at Dar Blues, your tranquil guest house in the stunning landscapes of Boumalne.

  • Snack Asderm

    Experience the authentic taste of Morocco at Snack Asderm, a charming restaurant in Boumalne Dades offering traditional dishes and warm hospitality.

  • Cafe restaurant Des Amis

    Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Des Amis with stunning views of Dades Gorge – a culinary delight for every traveler.

  • Auberge La Vallée des Figues

    Discover the enchanting beauty of Dades Gorge at Auberge La Vallée des Figues, a perfect blend of comfort and authentic Moroccan hospitality.

  • Riad Luxury dades

    Experience the enchanting beauty of Riad Luxury Dades, a serene hotel in the heart of Morocco's Dades Valley, where traditional charm meets modern comfort.

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