The Ourika Valley, High Atlas Mountains

The main reason I visit Marrakech is to get up into the High Atlas Mountains among ochre villages that cling to the side of steep semi arid mountains with thier lush valleys. The views from the winding mountain roads, many just gravel tracks, are stunning. First on the agenda is the Ourika Valley, just 30km from Marrakech and easiy accessible. This is a steep valley at the head of which are 5 waterfalls that tumble down the steep mountainside. Its a tiring uphill hike to get to the waterfalls but well worth it when you crest the final hill and look out over a steep cliff to the waterfalls both below and above you.

After hiking back down the the valey and the river its time to relax at one of the many riverside restaraunts with tables and chairs actually in the river. Its very cool just to sit there with feet in the cold rushing water while consuming a hot and hearty chicken Tagine slow cooked with figs.... yum!Read more