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Morocco // City Hopping by Train Part One // Marrakech – Atlas Mountains
9 days, 5 stops, 1 railroad: Marrakech – Atlas Mountains – Casablanca – Rabat – Fez. Let’s go!
1. Marrakech
We started off in Marrakech, also know as the “Ochre city” of Morocco. I was immediately captivated by the contrast between the stunning modern airport and the cosy medieval atmosphere of the old medina. We arrived late at night and made our way through what felt like a giant buzzing maze (better known as the souks) in order to get to the central market place: Jemaa el-Fnaa.
And there you have your second big contrast, we were taken aback by the enormity of this place amidst the tiny streets of the souks. Jemaa el-Fnaa is a joy for all senses: the setting is alluring, the food is to die for, the aromas are incredible, the murmur mingles with music and flute players trying to charm their snakes, and… let’s face it, eating all kinds of delicacies with your hands is just a lot of fun!
The next day we visited the Majorelle Garden, an oasis of green, blue and yellow. The botanical garden was originally designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle, later it was owned by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé.
I completely fell in love with this garden and its remarkable architecture, fountains, birds and vibrant contrasting colours (as you see, Marrakech is all about the contrast :)). It is so peaceful that you are bound to spot some visitors sleeping blissfully (or funnily, depending how you look at it) on one of the many benches in the garden.
Another interesting place to see (and smell) are the tanneries of Marrakech. Less popular than those of Fez, but definitely still worth your while! Here you can learn more about the ancient process of turning hides of goats, sheep, camels and cows into all kinds of leather products. But be prepared, there is an unofficial “exit through the gift shop” policy.
And last but not least for Marrakech: go wander through the souks! The spring in your step will automatically lift from all the energy flowing these narrow streets. Get you camera ready, because there will be plenty of scenes you will want to capture! (Photo gallery following soon)
2. Atlas Mountains
From Marrakech you can book a (day)trip to the nearby Atlas Mountains. We went to the Ourika Valley by bus (the only time we did not take a train) and climbed up the mountains to a secluded waterfall. A little tip: don’t wear flip-flows like we did ;) it involves some steep climbing and you have to cross some wobbly bridges.
Okay, time to catch the train to Casablanca! Continue reading the second part of our journey!
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