Category: Morocco

Morocco Mountains: Scenic Route with Lunch at Kasbah Asmaa

Crossing the desert from Fez to Erfoud took the better part of a day. We didn’t drive straight through or rush. When traveling, particularly by bus, it’s nice to stop and smell the roses. Before stopping for lunch at the Kasbah Asmaa, we had a short visit with wild Barbary Apes alongside the road we were traveling.

Unplanned Stop with Barbary Apes

Macaque in Morocco's Mid-Atlas Mountains

Our journey included an unplanned stop in the middle-Atlas Mountains. Here, we interacted with a troop of Barbary Apes. This unexpected experience added a delightful touch to our day.

Lunch at Kasbah Asmaa

Exterior of Kasbah Asmaa

We stopped for lunch at a desert restaurant and hotel called Kasbah Asmaa. The restaurant is located at Route d’Er Rachidia, Midelt 54350, Morocco. Midelt is strategically placed about halfway between Fez and Erfoud, making it a convenient stop.

Convenient Location and Spacious Parking

Hotel Kasbah Asmaa entrance

Kasbah Asmaa sits right along the highway with plenty of parking. The parking can accommodate tourist buses, making it accessible for large groups. The restaurant is large enough to seat several buses at a time. However, it wasn’t crowded during our visit.

Unique Dining Atmosphere at Kasbah Asmaa

Inner courtyard Kasbah Asmaa

We chose a room at the back of the restaurant where our entire group could fit. The rooms were different colors, with photos and pictures on the otherwise sparsely occupied walls. Our room was green with small chandeliers hanging beneath mildly gaudy colored glass.

Limited Menu but Tasty Options

Courtyard dining area at Kasbah Asmaa

The lunch menu was a bit limited but offered something for everyone. It featured traditional Moroccan fare, primarily a variety of tajines. The daily special was fish. I ordered the chicken tajine, a dish I enjoyed throughout Morocco. It’s flavorful and always on the menu. My wife ordered the same but asked for white meat. Both dishes were tasty, although her chicken was a bit tougher.

Beverage Options and Pricing at Kasbah Asmaa

Chicken Tajine

My lunch included a choice of drink. Morocco is a Muslim country, but you can usually buy beer and wine. I had a choice between Casablanca Beer or Flag Speciale. I opted for the Flag, a typical lager that was decent. The food was good, which is most important. Tajines cost around seven to eight dollars, standard for the places we visited.

Service and Facilities

Inner courtyard at Kasbah Asmaa

Service at Kasbah Asmaa was decent but nothing to brag about. It was difficult to get the waiter’s attention, except when he took our order. The menus were in English, making things easier. The bathrooms were moderately clean and required a small fee. While not the most exceptional meal, the food was good and the atmosphere interesting.

Final Thoughts

Kasbah Asmaa provided a pleasant lunch stop on our journey from Fez to Erfoud. The experience with the Barbary Apes and the unique atmosphere of the restaurant made it memorable. If you find yourself on this route, Kasbah Asmaa is a convenient and tasty option.

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Luxury in the Desert: Stay at Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid

Arriving in Erfoud in the evening, we headed straight to our hotel, Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid. This posh boutique hotel is located just outside Erfoud, Morocco. The entrance features a typical kasbah wall and gate style. The hotel is geared towards tourists, immersing visitors in local culture with live performances and traditional garments. The arrival of guests almost has a circus-like feel.

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid courtyard

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid has a resort-style layout with a reception building leading to a central courtyard. The courtyard has a large pool area with dining facilities, billeting, a bar, and a spa. An indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness facilities are to the left, a bit beyond the guest rooms. The hotel offers an oasis atmosphere that really set the tone for our visit to the desert. The room was amazing, capturing the essence and atmosphere of Morocco.

Persian rugs adorn the walkways throughout the courtyard.

To appreciate this room, you have to appreciate the details. The large sink and countertop are made of fossilized stone. The fossils, estimated to be 500 million years old, are embedded in the sink and countertop. The large fossils in the countertop are even contoured to show the full shape of the fossil.

Panoramic view of Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid room.
Bathroom area.
Interesting tiling and fossilized stone accent the bathroom.
The sink made from fossilized stone native to Erfoud.

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid only has 144 rooms, which are spacious, and the grounds are spread out. The dining room can accommodate several large groups at the same time. Dinner and breakfast were included with our stay, served buffet-style. Drinks (other than coffee and juice) are not included, so expect to pay extra for water, soda, or beer.

Fireplace in Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid dining room.
Mosaic tile art in the dining room.
A sample of the food at Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid
Desert tray offered a wide variety of options.
Wide view of Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid dining room.

The pool area in the middle of the hotel grounds has a lush, tropical feel. Carpets are laid out throughout the outdoor area and into the exposed areas of the guest rooms. This gives the area an opulent feel, but also seems a bit out of place. Enjoy some more photos of the common areas of the hotel.

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid pool.

Off the hotel lobby is a small gift shop. I found this hotel gift shop to be very reasonable, as cheap as one might find in the medina. The gift shop has a variety of scarves, postcards, fossils, and more. The fossils are mined at a nearby quarry and are reasonably priced. If you wait to purchase fossils elsewhere, you are going to pay more. The price difference was more than double in Marrakesh. I ended up purchasing several postcards at the gift shop as they were the cheapest I found in Morocco.

Cultural performers greet guests as the arrive at Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid

The staff at the Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid were friendly and helpful. In the dining room, they ensured you had a drink with your meal, if needed. The front desk staff were friendly. The cultural performers seemed to genuinely enjoy interacting with guests. Overall, the hotel has great customer service to go along with the luxurious atmosphere. According to Hotels.com, this hotel is less than two hundred dollars per night, which is money well spent given the level of luxury.

Pool area of the hotel.

If I were booking my own hotels for a trip to Morocco, Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Maadid is definitely the hotel I would book near Erfoud. While I can’t say that about all the hotels we stayed at in Morocco, this one stands apart. It was our favorite hotel. If only the wifi worked in the guest rooms (something we experienced at all the hotels in Morocco), this would have been flawless. The wifi is a minor point. Overall, this hotel delivered in every area a guest could expect.

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Unearthing Morocco’s Ancient Fossils: A Journey Through Time in Rissani

Did you know that 250 million years ago, Morocco was covered by a vast sea called the Tethys Sea? This ancient body of saltwater left behind massive deposits of fossilized creatures embedded in the rock. The area around Rissani, Morocco, is renowned for these fossil deposits, which are now being mined for their visual and textural appeal. These ancient fossils provide the foundation for amazing craftsmanship.

A craftsman in Rissani carefully etching a stone slab.

During the Devonian Era, which spanned from approximately 420 million to 360 million years ago, the Sahara region was home to crab-like creatures called trilobites. Among the numerous species of trilobites found in Morocco, Gerastos Granulosus is the most dominant. Other common fossils in the Rissani deposits include ammonoids, orthoceras, and crinoids. Ammonoids, related to modern squid, resemble giant snails, while orthoceras have a tubular body similar to modern squid. Crinoids, with their plant-like appearance, are also a frequent find. Additionally, selenite and geodes are commonly sold in this region, adding to the rich variety of geological treasures.

Stone countertop with embedded fossils.
Showroom treasures that include intact fossils.

Artisans in the region skillfully craft these stones into beautiful designs, transforming them into countertops, sinks, or tables. They often discover full trilobites or ammonoids, meticulously removing the surrounding material to expose the fossilized animals. During our visit, we witnessed a demonstration of how workers cut stone and craft three-dimensional pieces. The tools they use range from gentle buffing equipment and router-like drills to large slab-cutting machines. Cutting these stones is truly an art form, as artisans must carefully navigate the varied sizes of the fossils within the rock. Their goal is to capture as much of the intact outer shell of the creatures as possible, a challenge they have mastered with impressive skill.

Tools of the trade for create art from fossils in Rissani.
Showroom of fossil art.

After learning about the history of the fossil mines and the process of cutting and creating these remarkable pieces, we explored a showroom filled with stunning examples of fossilized animals. The craftsmanship combined with nature’s artistry resulted in beautiful, functional works of art. The three-dimensional sinks and tables were particularly impressive, showcasing an amazing blend of aesthetics and practicality. Many of these pieces were quite expensive, often costing more than my entire vacation. However, I couldn’t leave without purchasing some smaller, more affordable items like fossilized pendants, a fossil plate, soap dishes, a trilobite, and some shark teeth. The abundance of fossils in the region makes these fascinating pieces attainable for the average person.

Fossil showroom
Fossil Showroom.

The trip to Rissani was a captivating journey through time, providing a unique glimpse into the prehistoric world that once thrived in Morocco. Whether you’re an avid fossil collector or simply curious about the natural history of our planet, a visit to Rissani’s fossil mines is an experience you won’t forget. The incredible craftsmanship of local artisans ensures that these ancient treasures continue to inspire and amaze all who encounter them.

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From Souk to Sands: Experiencing the Heart of Rissani Souk

Rissani is a small town at the edge of the Sahara Desert. Before heading into the desert dunes, we visited the local Rissani souk. This market was the least touristy one we visited in Morocco. Although merchants greeted us with scarves, daggers, and fossils, the market catered mainly to locals. It was filled with fresh vegetables, spices, and other essentials for Rissani’s residents.

Horse drawn cart at Rissani Souk

After exploring the Rissani Souk, we were scheduled to visit a mosque before heading into the desert. The wind picked up, so I decided to buy a scarf. Traditional scarves here are indigo. A tall, friendly, and persistent merchant sold me a blue and black scarf for about three or four dollars. He even showed me how to tie it. This scarf proved useful in the windy dunes.

Rissani Gate

Things to see in Rissani:

  • Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Chérif – This mausoleum, rebuilt in 1965, houses the tomb of Moulay Ali Chérif, founder of the Alaouite dynasty. Non-Muslims can explore the Islamic garden but the tomb and mosque are off-limits.
  • Ksar El Fida – Located 4 km northeast of Rissani, this ancient ksar was rebuilt under Moulay Abd al Rahman. It now serves as a museum with free admission, though photography inside is prohibited.
  • Ksar Oulad Abdelhlim – This ksar hosts a bustling souk every Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Visitors can see local medicines, the sheep market, and the bird market.
  • Sijilmasa – On the northwest edge of Rissani, these ruins of a medieval city were the northern point of the trans-Saharan trade route. Recognized as an endangered site, it’s preserved by the Moroccan Ministry of Culture. You might be able to walk there from Rissani.
Scarf merchant at Rissani Souk

The Rissani Souk was a respite from the sun, with reed structures covered by cloth or tarps. Small tables and early morning vendors made up the scene. Wee visited with a couple of dozen vendors, all offering fresh produce and other goods.

Donkey near the market
Goats at nearby animal stalls.
Fresh produce at the market.

The Rissani Souk is centralized in Rissani, making it easy to find. Traveling with a tour group often means missing out on local flavor. Tour groups usually follow the same paths, but this visit felt different. We experienced genuine local life and interactions. The merchants were present, but we could still enjoy the market.

Sheltered area not in use during our visit.

We learned about Rissani and visited local shops in the souk. It was a pleasant experience. Meeting Moroccans was a highlight. Everyone we met was outgoing and friendly. Rissani captured the heart of Morocco (and captured our own hearts) with its small-town charm.

Live poultry at the market.

Rissani offered us a peek into everyday Moroccan life, away from the tourist trails. This small town was a memorable and authentic experience. I hope your visit to Morocco brings similar encounters.

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4×4 Adventures, Camel Rides and a Stunning Desert Sunset

One of the highlights of our trip to Morocco was the chance to ride camels into the dunes and enjoy a stunning Saharan desert sunset. This all-day affair started with a thrilling 4×4 adventure through the desert, meeting nomads, enjoying an oasis lunch, and relaxing at a desert hotel before the grand finale – a camel ride up the dunes to experience a desert sunset.

long shadows cast as we ride camels up the dunes.

The Desert’s Dual Beauty

Morocco’s desert has two distinct looks. The dark, rocky terrain from volcanic remnants contrasts sharply with the reddish-brown dunes. This contrast adds a unique beauty to the landscape, as shown in the photo below.

Contrasting colors in the desert.

The 4×4 Adventure Begins

Our adventure began in Rissani, where our drivers and 4x4s awaited us. We traveled in groups of four, navigating barely visible paths marked with small stone piles. Along the way, we stopped for several photo opportunities, capturing the desert’s stark beauty.

My 4x4 driver in the Moroccan desert.
4x4s stop for photos.
Desert "roads" are barely visible.
Following other 4x4s into our lunch oasis stop.

Oasis Lunch Surprise

Just as we were arriving for lunch, our 4×4 got stuck in a sand dune. While the other drivers helped, we opted to walk the short distance to the oasis. The lunch spot, ornately decorated and complete with restrooms and running water, was a pleasant surprise. We enjoyed grilled chicken and beef, fresh salads, bread, and fruit – a delicious meal for the middle of the desert.

Oasis lunch in the desert.
Small oasis well.

A Glimpse of Nomadic Life

After lunch, we visited a small nomad camp, meeting the family of one of our drivers. His wife was weaving in one tent while his mother, in another larger tent, shared tea and stories with us about nomadic life. It was a humbling experience to see how they lived and to hear their stories.

Nomadic family in the desert.
Nomadic family invited us for tea in their tent.
Part of the nomadic family structures.

Relaxing at the Desert Hotel

Post-nomad camp, we headed to a desert hotel with a swimming pool and bar to await the desert sunset. While some swam, I opted to relax in the air-conditioned bar, enjoying a couple of drinks. This break was a welcome respite before our camel ride into the dunes.

4x4s navigating desert paths
Desert hotel staging area for camel trek into the dunes.

Camel Ride to the Dunes

We then traveled to another location where the camels awaited us. Tied in groups of two or four, we mounted our camels and began our journey. Moroccan camels, smaller than those in Egypt, provided a swaying, dipping ride up to the dunes. Despite their size, the ride was an exciting adventure.

Camels ready for the journey into the dunes.
My new desert friend.

Reaching the Dunes’ Peak

After about half an hour, we dismounted near the top of the dunes and walked the rest of the way. From a ridgeline, we took in the breathtaking scenery, the wind whipping across the dunes. I was glad I had bought a scarf at the Rissani souk to protect my face from the blowing sand.

The camels relax as we dismount to watch the amazing desert sunset.
Sunset on the Moroccan desert dunes.
Protip:

Expensive cameras can be ruined by blowing sand. One of my fellow travelers had a $1000 camera that stopped working due to sand in the aperture. I recommend using a cheap point-and-shoot or a smartphone, but be cautious as sand can damage charging ports.

This day in the Moroccan desert was an unforgettable experience, from the thrill of 4×4 rides to the serene beauty of a Saharan desert sunset on camel back. The journey through the desert showcased the incredible diversity and stunning landscapes of Morocco, making it a highlight of our trip.

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Adventure Awaits: Amazing Stop at the Stunning Todgha Gorge

Traveling from Erfoud to Marrakesh by bus is a long journey. Usually, the trip is split over two days with a stop in Ouarzazate. Even though it was a long bus ride, I didn’t find it boring at all. The journey was surprisingly engaging and filled with beauty. Rather than rushing, we stopped at various places to appreciate Morocco’s beauty, culminating in an amazing stop at Todgha Gorge.

View looking out over river valley near Todgha Gorge.

When we arrived in Tinerhir, we stopped at a high point for a stunning view. The lush valley running through the Sahara took my breath away.

Spring Water flowing at Todgha Gorge

After the scenic overlook, we continued to Todgha Gorge. The limestone canyons were created by the Todgha and Dades rivers. Todgha Gorge was close to Tinerhir, which was on our route to Ouarzazate. The road into the canyon is paved, which made the drive easier. We drove to the most majestic part of the canyon and then walked the last half mile.

View near the spring water river inside the gorge.

The massive canyon walls slowly converge as you walk along the clear, rambling stream. The water was ice-cold in late April. It looked clean enough to drink.

Merchants stalls set up near inside the gorge.

The Todgha Gorge had many locals selling their wares. As a tourist, I didn’t mind people trying to make money. However, I wanted to take in the natural beauty of the place. The merchants were a bit aggressive, which was distracting. I always try to be polite and grateful for the experience while being sincere about whether I am interested in buying something. A polite “no” was not always enough. Eventually, I managed to break free of a couple of aggressive merchants. I then took some great photos of the canyon. Despite the other tourists, I captured some of the natural beauty Morocco offers.

Spring water rippling through the Todgha Gorge

As we approached the end of the pavement, I realized that the stream did not continue further up the valley. It was created by a natural spring beneath our feet. The water was seeping from the ground and rock all around the area. A local woman was gathering water with her daughter near the source of the stream. Further up, it was a bit brackish where the water was not moving. Beyond that area, the canyon narrowed further. That area seemed reserved for horseback or hiking. Unfortunately, we did not have time for that.

A mother and daughter gathering water.

When spending most of the day riding in a bus, stops like Todgha Gorge are a welcome break. We enjoyed the cool air of the gorge, dipped our toes in the crisp water, and marveled at the sheer limestone walls. There are tours centered on hiking or even climbing the gorge. Many climbing routes are marked out in the gorge. It appears to be a nice place to plan for as a destination as much as it was a welcome change of scenery during our trip through the desert. Whether you just stop for a quick visit or spend a day here, the scenery is breathtaking and worth the trip

Goats inside the gorge with a nearby shepherd.

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My Poor Dining Experience at Annexe Yasmina Restaurant

After visiting the stunning Todgha Gorge, we settled back into our bus and headed towards Tinehir, reconnecting with highway N10 on our journey to Ouarzazate. It was lunchtime, so we called ahead to Annexe Yasmina Restaurant to let them know we’d be stopping by. Located just beyond the junction with N10, it was a convenient spot for a large group.

Exterior Yamina Restaurant

Yasmina restaurant’s exterior was somewhat nondescript, with beige walls and interesting off-green metalwork. Large white rose bushes in bloom near the entrance added a pleasant touch. This hinted at the rose country we were about to enter. Upon entering, we were given a limited menu, which is typical for large groups to ensure quick service. The choices included chicken tajine, eggs, skewers, soup, and salad. I opted for the tajine while my wife chose the skewers

Despite the quick order taking, our food was slow to arrive. Several other groups who arrived after us received their meals first. As our dishes were being served, three of us, including myself, were missed completely. We informed the waiter, who assured us it was being taken care of. However, time passed, and the other groups finished their meals and left. Eventually, my food arrived, but by then, the rest of our group had nearly finished eating.

The chicken tajine wasn’t particularly good, and I had to eat quickly so as not to delay our group. I didn’t even finish it all. Wanting to avoid sickness from hastily eaten food, I ate what I could and asked to pay.

Rose bushes outside Yasmina Restaurant

Different cultures handle service issues differently, and while I somewhat expected a discount, I wasn’t counting on it. Instead, the waiter significantly short-changed me on my change. Not wanting to cause a scene, I asked our guide to translate and verify the price. The correct amount matched my calculation, and the waiter begrudgingly corrected the mistake. Whether it was intentional or not, it added insult to injury.

Entrance to Yasmina Restaurant

Looking back, I wish we had chosen a different place. The food was average, the service was terrible, and getting short-changed didn’t help. If you find yourself in Tinehir, there are surely better dining options than Annexe Yasmina Restaurant.

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Ouarzazate’s Hidden Secrets and Our Experience at Kenzi Azghor Hotel

Ouarzazate, famously known as the Hollywood of Morocco, is a popular stopover for bus tours traveling between the Sahara Desert and Marrakesh. This city, with its notable movie studios, provides a glimpse into Morocco’s cinematic charm. However, during our visit, we encountered a less-than-ideal stay at the Kenzi Azghor Hotel.

Kenzi Azghor Hotel Exterior

First Impressions: A Grand Entrance to Kenzi Azghor Hotel

Upon arrival, the Kenzi Azghor Hotel made a favorable first impression. The entrance led to a large courtyard featuring a beautiful fountain and well-maintained landscaping. The lobby, with its high ceiling and comfortable sitting areas, was inviting. As we made our way toward the dining room, we passed the pool area. We stopped to capture a spectacular view of the surrounding scenery. Although the spa and gym were located downstairs, we didn’t have the chance to explore these facilities.

Pool area with scenic views.
Kenzi Azghor hotel lobby area.

Kenzi Azghor Hotel Lacked Comfort and Convenience

Our room, located on the second floor, had a decent view overlooking the courtyard and the distant mountains. However, the positive aspects ended there. The room itself was minimalistic, with furnishings that offered little comfort. The bed was exceptionally hard, making it difficult to sleep. The floor was covered with old, poorly maintained tiles. Additionally, the room felt cramped, leaving little space for our luggage.

Minimalist room with a hard bed.
View of the Kenzi Azghor courtyard from our room.
View from our room.

Kenzi Azghor Hotel Bathroom Required Renovations

The bathroom was one of the most disappointing aspects of our stay. The water temperature was inconsistent, and the fixtures were outdated. The complimentary soap and shampoo were of low quality, and the elevated bathtub/shower setup was inconvenient. Furthermore, the plumbing seemed to be in disrepair.

Bathroom needed updating.

Wi-Fi Woes and Lackluster Breakfast

One of the most frustrating aspects of our stay was the poor wi-fi connectivity. Unlike other hotels where the wi-fi was at least decent in common areas, the Kenzi Azghor Hotel’s wi-fi was practically non-existent throughout the property.

Breakfast, included with our stay, was served in a well-maintained dining room with plenty of seating. However, the food was average at best, and the service was subpar. They ran out of coffee cups, leading to long waits for coffee.

The Kenzi Azghor Hotel has beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Kenzi Azghor Hotel served its purpose as a stopover on our way to Marrakesh, but it fell short in many aspects. The beautiful exterior and common areas were deceptive, as the rooms were in dire need of renovation. Despite the cleanliness, the lack of comfort and modern amenities made for an unsatisfactory stay. If you find yourself in Ouarzazate, consider exploring other hotel options for a more pleasant experience.

Note: It appears that the Kenzi hotel change initiated major renovations throughout major properties late last year, to include Kenzi Azghor. With that in mind, my experiences are based on a visit prior to these renovations.

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Overnight in Ouarzazate: Unique Dining at Ovelix Restaurant

Our brief stay in Ouarzazate was a pit stop on our way to Marrakesh. We spent just one night in this charming town, arriving in the evening with just enough time to relax before dinner. Our accommodation for the night was the Kenzi Azghor Hotel, where we were advised the food would be rather mediocre. This was confirmed by our our breakfast experience the next morning. Thus, we decided to venture out and try the nearby Ovelix Restaurant for dinner instead.

Exterior of Ovelix Restaurant in Ouarzazate.

A Taste of Egypt in Morocco

Ovelix Restaurant is an Egyptian-themed restaurant, complete with wall paintings and sculptures reminiscent of the historic murals we encountered during a trip to Egypt years ago. This thematic choice likely nods to Ouarzazate’s fame as a filming location for numerous movies. However, the food was neither Egyptian nor strictly Moroccan. Our prix fixe menu featured goat tajine, chicken cordon bleu, and a seafood dish. My wife and I both chose the chicken cordon bleu. The meal started with a light salad and concluded with dessert.

Unique Chicken Cordon Bleu

Dining Ambiance and Service at Ovelix Restaurant

The restaurant’s interior boasts high, ornate ceilings and walls elaborately decorated with an Egyptian motif. We found the service exceptionally fast, likely because we ordered ahead. The staff were friendly and accommodating, making us feel welcome. The food presentation was impeccable, with each dish looking almost too good to eat. Those who chose the goat tajine were particularly impressed with their meals.

Interior of Ovelix reestaurant showing the high ceilings and Egyptian art.

A Quirky Twist on a Classic Dish

Our chicken cordon bleu, while visually appealing, had a quirky twist. Instead of the traditional ham, it contained something akin to pepperoni. The spiciness of the sausage was a bit too unusual for my taste, so I removed it and enjoyed the chicken, which was good on its own. For dessert, we had tiramisu, which was excellent and a delightful end to our meal.

Ovelix Restaurant: Reasonable Prices and Overall Experience

The prices at Ovelix Restaurant were reasonable. Most of the tajines were around 60 dirhams, slightly cheaper than the 70 to 100 dirhams we paid elsewhere. Desserts ranged from 25 to 30 dirhams, which seemed about average. The tiramisu portion was generous and delicious. The chicken cordon bleu, priced at around ten dollars US, was more expensive. Given the quirky twist on the dish, I might have been better off choosing the tajine. The restaurant’s website shows a photo of this dish with what looks like traditional sliced ham, unlike the cubed, darker meat we were served.

Ovelix Restaurant interior.

Despite the unusual twist on the cordon bleu, I would give Ovelix another try. I appreciated the service and atmosphere, and the restaurant was conveniently located just a short walk from our hotel.

Conclusion

Ouarzazate may have been a brief stopover on our journey, but it offered a memorable dining experience at Ovelix Restaurant. The town’s charm and the unique Egyptian-themed restaurant made our short stay enjoyable. If you ever find yourself in Ouarzazate, Ovelix is worth a visit—just perhaps opt for the tajine!

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Unveiling the Secrets of Kasbah de Taourirt in Morocco’s Hollywood

Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” is home to the country’s burgeoning film industry. While it may seem like a convenient stopover on the way to Marrakesh from Erfoud, it has hidden gems worth exploring. One such gem is the old Kasbah de Taourirt, a captivating historical site that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.

Entrance sign for Kasbah de Taourirt.

A Morning Visit to Kasbah de Taourirt

First thing in the morning, we visited the Kasbah de Taourirt. Unlike the bustling medinas found in cities like Fez, this kasbah is smaller and lacks a major market. However, it is in fairly decent condition and offers a unique charm. The kasbah, which saw its heyday in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, is a labyrinth of hallways and stairwells leading to plain rooms adorned with ornate engravings and common areas where local artists display their wares.

Old Cannon
Buildings with ornate designs sculpted into the exterior.

An Artistic Haven

The Kasbah de Taourirt is a haven for art lovers. The main items for sale here are artworks, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. I regret not purchasing any art during our visit, opting to wait until we reached Marrakesh. The prices were fantastic, with paintings as cheap as 200 dirham (about twenty US dollars). One large painting of a lady, priced at 1000 dirham, particularly caught my eye. It was a steal considering the quality, comparable to the art I later bought for twice the price.

Artwork at Kasbah de Taourirt
Smaller paintings for sale for the equivalent of fifteen US Dollars.
The galleries at Kasbah de Taourirt adorned the walls throughout the historic structure.
Interesting painting that was among those I was close to purchasing.
Artwork at the kasbah.

Ornate Details and Rich History

Some rooms within the kasbah featured ornate ceilings, while others had verses from the Koran inscribed on the walls. These intricate details offered a stark contrast to the otherwise faded and mildly neglected walls, adding to the kasbah’s unique charm.

Artistic Arabic writing
The Kasbah de Taourirt had ornate Arabic writing inscribed into the architecture.
More Arabic calligraphy.
Interesting design created from Arabic calligraphy.

Guided Tour Through the Maze

We were fortunate to have a local guide lead us through the maze-like structure of the kasbah. In about an hour, he explained the history and significance of the kasbah, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The tour concluded with a visit to the low-quality but usable restrooms near the entrance—an essential stop before embarking on another lengthy bus trip.

Conclusion

The Kasbah de Taourirt may not be as grand as some of the other historical sites in Morocco, but it offers a unique and enriching experience. Its combination of history, art, and architecture makes it a worthwhile stopover in Ouarzazate. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, this kasbah has something to offer. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem and perhaps even bring home a piece of Moroccan art.

Ouarzazate may be known for its film industry, but the Kasbah de Taourirt stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural history. Make sure to include it in your itinerary when traveling through this fascinating region of Morocco.

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