Family Adventure in Taroudant, Morocco

A Palette of Experiences in Taroudant

Today was a vibrant collage of art, nature, and authentic Moroccan tastes. From exploring the artistic haven of Palais Claudio Bravo to wandering through the exotic gardens of Dar al Hossoun, and savoring local cuisine, Taroudant revealed its multifaceted charm. It was a day of sensory delights that left me feeling deeply connected to this 'Grandmother of Marrakech.'


Discover the artistic heart of Morocco at Palais Claudio Bravo, where art and hospitality converge in a stunning setting.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Complex Noblesse. Liam and Maya were particularly excited about the prospect of trying Moroccan-style pizza, and it didn't disappoint. I opted for a traditional tagine, a flavorful start to a day promising rich experiences. Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the artistic wonders of Palais Claudio Bravo.

The Palais Claudio Bravo was nothing short of breathtaking. The moment we stepped through the gates, we were transported into a world where art and architecture seamlessly blend. The Palais is the former residence of the late Chilean painter Claudio Bravo. The architecture of the house is noteworthy, as are its amazing contents, including paintings by Bravo and Francis Bacon, as well as dinosaur fossils, priceless antiques from Mali, India, Japan and Morocco as well as wonderful gardens. The palace itself is a striking example of colonial-surrealist design, where bold architectural forms meet dreamlike artistic themes. The luminous chambers filled with luxurious details each revealed a new layer of Bravo's vision. We wandered through the luminous chambers filled with Bravo's artwork and collections, each space telling a story of his unique vision. Maya was particularly fascinated by the dinosaur fossils, while Liam and I were captivated by the blend of Moroccan and international art. The staff were incredibly welcoming, sharing anecdotes about Bravo and the history of the Palais.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Leaving the Palais, we headed to Dar al Hossoun, a botanical lodge renowned for its exotic gardens. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a lush, green paradise. Dar al Hossoun began as a private residence built by French landscape designers Arnaud Maurières and Eric Ossart. They created a geometric paradise using seeds and cuttings collected during their years of travel. With over 900 species of plants and trees, it's not a stretch to think of Dar al Hossoun as contemporary garden first, hotel second.


Discover the beauty of Moroccan hospitality at Dar al Hossoun in Taroudant, where luxury meets tradition in a tranquil garden setting.

Walking through the gardens felt like stepping into another world. The air was filled with the scent of exotic flowers, and the variety of plants was astounding. Maya was thrilled to spot chameleons and peacocks roaming freely. Liam, ever the nature enthusiast, was in his element, identifying different species and snapping photos. I found myself lost in the tranquility of the sunken garden, a mini rainforest within the desert.

After our garden adventure, hunger called, and we decided to try Snack Omar for lunch. This local eatery came highly recommended for its authentic Moroccan flavors. We savored traditional tagines and fresh salads, each dish bursting with spices and local ingredients. Maya surprised us all by devouring a hearty portion of couscous, declaring it her favorite Moroccan dish so far.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Snack Omar, a charming restaurant in Taroudant offering traditional dishes and warm hospitality.

With the afternoon sun mellowing, we sought refuge in Café Coin d’Or, a charming spot known for its relaxing ambiance. We sipped on refreshing mint tea, a Moroccan staple, while Maya enjoyed a fruit smoothie. The café’s tranquil setting, with its colorful flowers and exotic birds, provided the perfect backdrop for reflecting on our day.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Coin d’Or, a cozy restaurant in Taroudant serving authentic dishes amidst a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

As evening approached, we indulged in dinner at Café Restaurant El Khair. This place is more than just a dining establishment; it's a cultural experience that showcases the essence of Moroccan hospitality. We enjoyed a delightful meal filled with traditional dishes that highlight the region's culinary heritage. From aromatic tagines to flavorful couscous, every meal is crafted with fresh ingredients and served with a side of warmth and generosity. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel like part of their family. The lamb tagine was a standout, and the homemade bread was simply divine.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant El Khair in Taroudant, where generous hospitality meets delicious traditional cuisine.

Tonight, as I write this, I am filled with a sense of contentment. Taroudant has a way of captivating you with its unpretentious beauty and genuine warmth. The blend of art, nature, and culinary delights created a day that was both enriching and deeply satisfying. I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Liam and Maya. Their enthusiasm and curiosity make every adventure even more special.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Thami bike tours and 20 August Place [see Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I am particularly excited about the bike tour, as it promises a unique perspective of Taroudant and its surroundings. I am also looking forward to visiting De Velasco Boutique for some shopping [see Itinerary of Tomorrow].

Before I sign off, I wanted to share a little anecdote. Today, while at Dar al Hossoun, Maya struck up a conversation with a gardener. She was fascinated by the different plants and asked endless questions. The gardener, with a twinkle in his eye, shared stories about each plant, making Maya’s eyes light up with wonder. It was a reminder of the simple joys of travel and the connections we make along the way. I am glad that I decided to bring my family with me in this trip, so they also experience the beauty of Morocco like I did.

Until tomorrow, Taroudant. May your nights be as peaceful as your days are vibrant.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I managed to find a travel adapter today! No more scrambling for charging spots. And I made a mental note to buy new sunglasses tomorrow.