Marrakech and the High Atlas

This part of romantic Morocco is the ideal place to get away from it all. Hidden deep in the High Atlas Mountains are the crumbling remains of the great fortress-palace of Telouet, where we stopped for the most delicious tagine lunch. No time for a siesta, we continued our drive through the picturesque Tijhza Valley, across the impressive Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m), before arriving at the lush and remote village of Tijhza.

Staying in a simple but pleasant gite, we took in the spectacular surrounds each day with walks straight from the front door. The relaxed pace allowed us time to enjoy the scenery of the mountains and learn a little about the way of life for the Berber people. Our guide, Yasin, was simply lovely and nothing was too much trouble. His knowledge of the area and the local people was second to none and he led us to the most picturesque spots, which I'm certain we couldn't have found without him. Our treks took us off the beaten track, where the only people we passed were goat and sheep herders.

From here we headed back to Marrakech and reality! A visit to the tranquil Majorelle Gardens helped lessen the blow before I immersed myself fully into the sights and sounds of the markets, the bartering and the buying! Great fun and great bargains to be found.