Exploring the Natural Beauty and Culture of Ourika Valley

Embracing the Essence of Ourika Valley

Today was a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of Berber culture, stunning landscapes, and the most delectable Moroccan cuisine. It's days like these that remind me why Liam and I traded the familiar comforts of Kelowna for the unpredictable beauty of the open road. The experiences, the people, the flavors – they all come together to create memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned home.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café restaurant El Baraka. The aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with the sweet scent of mint tea, a combination that instantly invigorated my senses. We sat on the terrace, watching the valley awaken as the sun painted the landscape in hues of gold and amber. The simple yet satisfying breakfast of local bread, olives, and jam was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. It reminded me of the simple pleasures in life, something I often miss amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant El Baraka in P2017 – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After breakfast, we ventured to Dar Soulaimane Ourika Marrakech. The place was beautiful, and the staff were incredibly kind. The location offered stunning views of the Ourika Valley. We spent a good hour wandering through the gardens, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. I even managed to capture a few stunning photographs, adding to my growing collection of Moroccan memories. The architecture was beautiful, with its traditional Moroccan design and intricate details. It felt like stepping back in time, a glimpse into the rich history of this fascinating country.


Discover the tranquility of Dar Soulaimane in Ourika Valley, a perfect blend of Moroccan charm and breathtaking natural beauty.

Next on our itinerary was Ourika House. This was a truly immersive experience, allowing us to witness firsthand the craftsmanship and artistry of local artisans. I was particularly captivated by the intricate weaving techniques used to create the vibrant carpets and textiles. I even tried my hand at it, but quickly realized that it takes years of practice to master the craft. It gave me a newfound appreciation for the skill and dedication of these artisans. Liam, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the logistics of the operation, peppering the artisans with questions about sourcing materials and distribution channels. He's always thinking about the bigger picture, my Liam.


Experience the charm of Ourika Valley at Ourika House, where Moroccan hospitality meets natural beauty in a tranquil setting.

For lunch, we indulged in a feast at Restaurant Kasbah Ourika. The restaurant is perched in the Ourika Valley, offering an enchanting setting blending tradition and elegance. The Moroccan cuisine created by the chef was magnificent. We savored a delectable tagine, its rich flavors a testament to the culinary heritage of Morocco. The staff were friendly and the service was impeccable. The restaurant itself was a work of art, with its traditional Moroccan décor and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch, a chance to relax and recharge before the afternoon's adventures.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors in a stunning setting at Restaurant Kasbah Ourika, a true culinary gem in the heart of the Ourika Valley.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore the valley a bit more. We drove along the scenic roads, stopping at various viewpoints to capture the breathtaking vistas. The Ourika Valley in September is stunning. The temperature hovers around 26°C during the day, cooling down to about 14°C at night. The landscape is lush and green, a stark contrast to the arid desert landscapes we had encountered earlier in our trip. We even stumbled upon a small Berber village, where we were greeted with warm smiles and offered mint tea. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the simple joys of life and the importance of human connection.

As evening approached, we made our way back towards Marrakech, but not before stopping for dinner at Agdal ourika. While some reviews mentioned mixed experiences, we found the setting charming and the food satisfying. We enjoyed a traditional Moroccan meal under the stars, the sounds of the valley providing a soothing soundtrack. The staff were attentive and the service was prompt. It was a lovely way to end our day in the Ourika Valley, a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine with breathtaking views at Agdal Ourika in the scenic Ourika Valley.

To cap off the night, we decided to experience Marrakech's nightlife at Comptoir Darna. The restaurant is known for its Moroccan and international cuisine, and the ambiance is incredible. We arrived to a traditional orchestra band and later enjoyed a belly dancing show. The atmosphere was electric, the music infectious, and the dancers mesmerizing. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way. I even managed to convince Liam to join me on the dance floor, much to the amusement of our friends. It was a night of laughter, music, and pure joy, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the essence of Moroccan culture with exquisite cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Comptoir Darna, Marrakech's premier dining and entertainment venue.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. The Ourika Valley has exceeded all my expectations, offering a glimpse into a world that is both ancient and vibrant. The Berber people have welcomed us with open arms, sharing their culture, their cuisine, and their way of life. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with new people and experiencing new cultures. And as we prepare for our final day in Morocco, I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Smile Park and Ourika Lodge. I'm excited to see what these attractions have in store for us. We'll also be dining at Dar Zohra Boutique Guesthouse for breakfast, Restaurant La Nature for lunch, and Chez Larbi Ourika Restaurant Maison d'hôtes for our final dinner. And of course, we'll be making a stop at Au Fil d'Or for some last-minute souvenir shopping. It's going to be a busy day, but I'm determined to make the most of our final hours in this magical land. I may even pick up a portable phone charger, since I forgot mine.

As I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the sounds of the Ourika Valley – the gentle murmur of the river, the distant call of the muezzin, and the laughter of the Berber people. It's a symphony that will forever be etched in my memory, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of this incredible place. Goodnight from Morocco!