Exploring the Enchanting Dades Valley with Family

A Day of Discovery in the Dades Valley

Today, the sixth day of our Moroccan adventure, promised a deeper dive into the natural wonders of the Dades Valley. With the family in tow, I was eager to explore beyond the well-trodden paths and discover some of the valley's hidden gems. I must say, the blend of geological marvels and local culture made for a truly unforgettable day.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant AIT SEDRAT. The restaurant was simple, yet the food was delicious. We enjoyed traditional Moroccan pancakes and strong coffee, which gave us the energy we needed for the day ahead. The kids were particularly fond of the mint tea, a staple here, and Sophie even tried to learn a few Arabic phrases from the friendly staff. It’s moments like these, sharing simple joys, that make traveling with family so special. I made a mental note to buy a portable charger as I realized I had forgotten it at our guesthouse.

Fueled up and ready, our first stop was Kefroun, also known as the Turtle's Back. This unique rock formation, resembling a giant turtle shell, is a testament to the area's rich geological history. The drive to Kefroun took us through winding roads and offered panoramic views of the valley. When we arrived, the kids were immediately fascinated by the unusual shape of the rock, and we spent a good hour exploring the area and taking photos. The landscape was rugged and beautiful, with diverse flora and fauna adding to the allure.


Discover the breathtaking Kefroun, the Turtle's Back, a stunning natural formation in Taadadate, Morocco, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The beauty of the Dades Valley lies not just in its landscapes, but in the warm embrace of its people and the stories etched into its ancient stones.

Next on our itinerary was the Cascade, a hidden waterfall nestled amidst the rocky terrain. Reaching the cascade involved a bit of a hike, but the effort was well worth it. The trail led us through lush greenery and offered glimpses of the valley's dramatic gorges. As we neared the cascade, the sound of rushing water grew louder, and soon we were greeted by a stunning waterfall cascading down the rocks. The kids were thrilled and immediately wanted to splash around in the cool water. I, on the other hand, found a quiet spot to sit and soak in the beauty of the surroundings. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure everyone was safe and hydrated.


Experience the serene beauty of the Cascade in Ait Ibriren, a natural wonder offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape into nature.

For lunch, we stopped at L’habitant Amazigh, a local restaurant known for its authentic Berber cuisine. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, adorned with traditional décor. We indulged in a tagine, flavorful couscous, and freshly prepared salads, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The meal was a true culinary experience, and we savored every bite. We chatted with the owner who told us stories about the Berber culture and traditions. It was fascinating to learn about their way of life and their deep connection to the land. Sophie was particularly interested in the traditional Amazigh music and asked if we could buy a CD to take back home.


Discover rich Amazigh culture through authentic cuisine at L’habitant Amazigh—your gateway to Morocco’s culinary heritage.

In the late afternoon, we decided to visit Café restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR for a refreshing break. This café is a hidden gem located in Boumalne Dades, known for its warm hospitality and traditional Moroccan cuisine. Although some sources mention it being permanently closed, we decided to check it out and were pleasantly surprised to find it open and bustling with locals and tourists alike. We sipped on traditional mint tea while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The café had a vibrant atmosphere, and we enjoyed watching the locals play traditional music and dance. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR in Boumalne Dades, where local cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hotel La Gazelle du Dades for dinner. The hotel restaurant offered a cozy ambiance and a menu featuring both Moroccan and international dishes. We opted for Moroccan specialties, including tagine and grilled meats. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. After dinner, we sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and reflecting on the day's adventures.


Discover the serenity of Dades Gorge at Hotel La Gazelle du Dades, where breathtaking views and warm Moroccan hospitality await.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a moment to stargaze. The night sky in the Dades Valley is incredibly clear, and we were able to see countless stars twinkling above us. It was a magical experience, and we felt a sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of the universe. I couldn’t help but think about how different this was from my work at the historical archives in Sarnen, yet both offered a unique way to connect with history and the world around us.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Monkey Finger viewpoint and Maison D'hôtes Restaurant Chez L'habitant Amazigh. I’m particularly excited about the Monkey Finger viewpoint, as I've heard it offers stunning panoramic views of the valley. I am also looking forward to another day of culinary exploration and cultural immersion.

As I write this, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've had today. The Dades Valley has exceeded all my expectations, and I am so glad that we decided to include it in our Moroccan itinerary. Traveling with family has made the experience even more special, and I cherish the memories we are creating together. I’m also grateful that we get to experience this trip during this time of year. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are simply breathtaking. As we continue our journey through Morocco, I am excited to see what other wonders await us.