The area north of Marrakech around Beni Mellal, en route to Fez, is an ideal departure point to discover the Upper Atlas mountains, in particulalr, the city of Azilal and the entire surrounding region offer a wide variety of natural landscapes and living culture.

The region is the result of an Arab-Berber melting pot which has influenced its crafts, cuisine and architecture. An enlightening example of this architecture is the circular fortified clay storage area in the village of Sidi Moussa. These ancient grain stores characterize the rural life of the surroundings. The inhabitants, shepherds and farmers, launched themselves into honey, nut oil and cheese production. Women's associations and cooperatives grouping together several villages are open to the public. Feel free to step into one of the tighermts, the old tribal leaders' castles. Although the walls are made from adobe or stone, the internal decoration in wood is often skillfully painted with a variety of patterns. And you will understand why the hospitality of the region's inhabitants is so famous.

Sightseeing: The area around Azilal and more generally the central Upper Atlas lends itself to ecotourism due to its well-preserved and impressive nature. Some examples: 36km west of Azilal are the crashing waterfalls of Ouzoud, an exceptional site. A 100m drop cuts through the middle of a luxuriant chasm. The watercourse flows on for 2km to the deep gorges of El Abid wadi (400m). Other fantastic natural sights include the pretty Arous gorges near Agouti at the entrance to the Aït Bouguemez valley, and the Imi-n-Ifri bridge, near Demnate. A gigantic stone arch carved out by the Mahseur wadi from which hundreds of stalactites hang.

Trekking: Azilal is considered to be the ideal village for setting off to visit the treasures of the Upper Atlas, from the magnificent Bin el Ouidane lake to Jbel M’Goun. The Aït Bouguemez valley, also called the Happy Valley, is suited to walking, mule rides and mountain-biking. There are several circuits organized by travel agencies and many pass through the village of Aït Imi, famous for its irrigation system and water mills which have been transformed into wheat and corn mills. Mountain hikingis suitable for more experienced people depending on the level of difficulty. Skiing and cross-country skiingis possible is possible between February and April. The second-highest summit in Morocco, an ascent of Jbel M’Goun (4068m) takes six days. The less technical Arous gorges can also be climbed.

Other Activities: With its waterfalls and numerous section of white water, the region is ideal for enjoying kayaking, rafting and conyoning, in Tilouguite for example. Rainbow trout fishing is also possible. On the beautiful Bin el Ouidane lake, 27km north of Azilal, many water sports such as jet-skiing and windsurfing are practiced. Finally, take advantage of a stop at Beni Mellal to swim in the Aïn Asserdoune springs. The interesting caves at El Ksiba form a multitude of cavities which can be as much as 20m deep. The Aven des Ours (Swallow-hole of the Bear) is 6km away. This chasm plunges 117m down amid lush green vegetation. The spot, which is popular with Barbary macaques, is ideal for a lovely walk. With its caves and chasms, the entire region is ideal for potholing and palaeontology. Four sites form the Mesozoic Era prove the presence of dinosaurs in the Aït Bouguemez valley as well as in the Demnate nature reserve where fossilized footprints are visible.

Riad Cascades d'Ouzoud

(Ouzoud)

			Reservations - All our holidays are tailor-made so please feel free to request any combination of hotels, riads or tours for your own holiday. The minimum reservation for our accommodation only service is 3 nights in total, although not necessarily at same property. Simply contact us by phone or email or complete one of our enquiry forms. Why Rediscover? - All our reservations staff have worked in Morocco (or visited extensively) and will be more than happy to offer advice and suggestions on any of our featured destinations, tours and properties. Prices - our prices are similar to or quite often cheaper than our internet competitors or booking directly and significantly cheaper than those producing expensive brochures whilst our service, knowledge and after sales care is second to none. Security - Rediscover the World is a member of the TTA (T6816), we also hold our own ATOL bond (T7172). We therefore provide full financial security and assistance should any part of your holiday not happen entirely to plan. If you were to assemble your holiday yourself you may not have this sort of protection.

The Riad Cascades D'Ouzoud is built from traditional materials giving it an earthy red apperance; designed like a riad with rooms set around an interior courtyard. Dramatically perched at the top of a waterfall offering views down onto the River Ouzoud, a fast-flowing river bringing water to the surrounding valleys and their almond and olive trees.

Accommodation: All the bedrooms have bathrooms equipped with showers, a fireplace and heating in winter. The decor, carved ceilings and rustic furniture give the hotel a traditional atmosphere.

Facilities: The hotel offers two restaurants; one on the terrace and the other in the Moroccan-style lounge.

Transfer Time from Airport:

3 hour 30 mins from Fez (private transfer).

Holiday Prices

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