Exploring the Serene Beauty of Ourika Valley, Morocco

Saffron and Splashing Waterfalls

Today was a sensory feast in Ourika Valley, a day where the vibrant colors and fragrant scents mingled with the soothing sounds of cascading water. Leaving the guesthouse early, Hans and I were eager to explore the valley's renowned Paradis du Safran Maroc and the famed Ourika Valley Waterfalls. I felt a particular excitement, reminiscent of my early days in Berlin exploring its hidden gardens, but this time, it was a Moroccan paradise waiting to be discovered.

Our first stop was Paradis du Safran Maroc, a saffron farm run by Christine Ferrari, a Swiss lady who traded her life in Basel for the serenity of the Atlas Mountains. The drive there was beautiful. As we took a sharp left at kilometer 31 in the Ourika valley, the landscape unfolded before us. Christine greeted us with a heartfelt welcome and a refreshing floral mineral water. She led us through her garden, explaining the intricate process of saffron cultivation. It was fascinating to learn how much labor goes into producing this precious spice. The plants weren't yet in full bloom, as Christine explained the recent weeks had been too warm, delaying their famous bright purple shine.


Experience the beauty of saffron cultivation in the stunning Ourika Valley of Morocco, a unique blend of nature and culture awaits.

As we walked through the garden, the air was filled with the scent of rosemary and other herbs. Christine showed us how to distinguish between real and fake saffron and offered us a taste of saffron dip. It was a delightful experience, and I couldn't resist purchasing some of her high-quality, Swiss-certified organic saffron to take back home. I plan to try my hand at some traditional Vietnamese dishes with a Moroccan twist!

The beauty of nature lies in its ability to awaken our senses and connect us to the world around us.

After the saffron farm, we were ready for a hike to the Ourika Valley Waterfalls. The journey to the waterfalls starts in the heart of Setti Fatma village. The trail was steep and rocky, requiring us to clamber across rocks and cross the river. I was glad I had packed my hiking boots, though I did see some tourists attempting the climb in flip-flops ! The path wound through a small village filled with souvenir shops selling everything from Berber carpets to pottery. I couldn’t help but stop at Ourika shop to admire the local crafts.


Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ourika Valley Waterfalls, a stunning Moroccan escape surrounded by lush landscapes and majestic mountains.

The hike was challenging but rewarding. The views of the valley were breathtaking, with lush greenery and the Atlas Mountains in the distance. As we climbed higher, the sound of rushing water grew louder, spurring us on. We passed several smaller cascades before reaching the main waterfall. Many tourists were gathered here, creating a bit of a bottleneck on the narrow path.

The waterfall itself was stunning, a powerful cascade of water plunging into a pool below. Hans and I took some time to rest and enjoy the view, soaking in the refreshing mist. I felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing we had conquered the challenging hike. We took some photos to immortalize the moment before making our way back down.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant La Nature. It was a cozy place with outdoor seating. Hans and I enjoyed a traditional tagine. While the restaurant isn't widely represented on major dining directories, we found the food satisfying after our long hike.


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

In the evening, we decided to try L'Olivier D'or for dinner. The ambiance was lovely, and the food was delicious. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and natural beauty.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at L'Olivier D'or—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

As we head to bed tonight, I am already excited about tomorrow's adventures. Our itinerary includes a visit to Kasbah Bab Ourika and Ourika Oufla. I'm particularly looking forward to exploring Kasbah Bab Ourika, as I've read it offers stunning views of the valley. We also plan to visit La Clé Des Huiles Ourika, a shop known for its exquisite oils. It sounds like another day filled with cultural immersion and scenic beauty. I am glad I brought my camera to capture all these amazing memories.

The Ourika Valley has a special charm, a blend of natural beauty and Berber culture that captivates the soul. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. As I reflect on today's experiences, I am reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. The fragrant saffron, the cascading waterfalls, and the warm hospitality of the Berber people have all left an indelible mark on my heart. I feel so grateful to be able to share these experiences with Hans, who is always up for an adventure, no matter how challenging the hike may be. His support and companionship make these trips even more special, and I cherish the memories we are creating together. Perhaps, when we return to Berlin, we can recreate a small piece of this paradise in our own little garden, a reminder of the beauty and tranquility we found in the Ourika Valley.