Solo Adventure in the Atlas Mountains

A Tapestry of Treasures

Today was a vibrant blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, a day where the artistry of the Atlas Mountains came to life. From exploring local crafts to savoring traditional cuisine, every moment felt like a rich tapestry woven with the threads of Moroccan life. I'm continually amazed by the warmth and hospitality of the Berber people, and today was no exception.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Café-restaurant Assanfou. I decided to try their renowned 'nus nus' coffee, which was the perfect blend of strong coffee and creamy milk – a delightful way to kickstart the day. The café had a cozy atmosphere, and I enjoyed watching the locals start their day as I planned mine.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café-Restaurant Assanfou with breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains.

With a caffeine-induced spring in my step, I set off to Art De Cuivre Travel. This wasn't just a travel agency; it was a gateway to the soul of Morocco. As a freelance software developer, I appreciate the blend of creativity and precision in any craft, and the intricate copper work here was fascinating. I learned about the traditional techniques used to create stunning pieces of art, each telling a story of Moroccan heritage. I was particularly drawn to a beautiful copper teapot, but I resisted the urge to buy it, reminding myself of luggage space. Perhaps Greta would appreciate something like this.


Discover the essence of Moroccan culture and stunning landscapes at Art De Cuivre Travel in the heart of Marrakesh.

The beauty of Morocco lies not just in its landscapes, but in the artistry and warmth of its people.

Next on the agenda was Trek Atlas Desert. While I wasn't planning a full-blown trek today, I was eager to experience a taste of the desert landscape. I arranged for a short excursion that took me through the outskirts of the Atlas, where the mountains meet the arid plains. The views were breathtaking, and the silence was broken only by the occasional bleating of goats and the wind whistling through the rocks. It was a stark contrast to the lush greenery I had seen earlier in the trip, but equally captivating. I was reminded of hiking with Greta in the Odenwald Forest back in Germany; she would have loved this raw, untamed beauty.


Discover the thrilling hiking trails and exciting car racing experiences at Trek Atlas Desert, a must-visit adventure destination near Marrakesh.

For lunch, I headed to Restaurant La Vallee, enticed by its reputation for authentic Moroccan cuisine and scenic views. The restaurant was nestled beside a river, and I opted for a table on the terrace where I could soak in the natural beauty of the valley. I ordered a traditional tagine, and it was a burst of flavors – tender meat, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked vegetables. It was the perfect fuel for the afternoon's adventures. While the food was delicious, the service was a bit slow, but I didn't mind. I was in no rush, content to simply enjoy the moment.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at Restaurant La Vallee in Setti-Fatma.

After lunch, I decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Atlas Accessoire. This bustling shopping mall in Agouim was a treasure trove of local handicrafts and souvenirs. I browsed through the stalls, admiring the colorful carpets, intricate pottery, and sparkling silver jewelry. I finally settled on a beautiful Berber carpet, small enough to fit in my luggage but vibrant enough to remind me of my time here. I also picked up a few small trinkets for Greta and some friends back home. I even bartered a little, feeling like a true local!


Discover the lively Atlas Accessoire Shopping Mall in Agouim, your ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.

My final stop for the day was La terrasse, restaurants & Lounge Atlas Golf Marrakech. Although I'm no golfer, I was drawn to this place by its promise of stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. And it didn't disappoint! I sipped on mint tea as I watched the sunset over the golf course, the Atlas Mountains providing a majestic backdrop. The air was cool and crisp, and the sky was ablaze with color. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover exquisite Moroccan cuisine and breathtaking views at La Terrasse in Atlas Golf Marrakech—a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of the Atlas Mountains. Tomorrow marks the final day of my solo adventure, and I plan to make the most of it. The itinerary includes a day trip to the Atlas Mountains and a hot air balloon ride with Ciel d'Afrique. I'm excited to see the mountains from a new perspective and to soak in the last moments of this incredible journey. I am also planning on having breakfast at Café Restaurant Tagudalt, lunch at Restaurant Barka Tizi, and a final dinner at Restaurant - Le 68 Bar à Vin Marrakech. And maybe, just maybe, I'll find time for a cocktail at BAROMETRE COCKTAILS in Marrakech before heading back to Germany. I am sure Greta would love to hear all about it.

This trip has been a reminder of the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. The Atlas Mountains have a way of stripping away the unnecessary and revealing the simple beauty of life. And as I prepare to return to Heidelberg, I know that I'll carry a piece of this magic with me always.

Perhaps next time, I'll convince Greta to join me. I think she'd fall in love with this place, too.

Until tomorrow,
Oliver