16th day, May 1st 2023

Marrakech – Agouni

I left Marrakech this morning to take the R203 road towards Ourigane. I had to cross the city, and although roundabouts are convenient, you need to know how to handle them here. In Morocco, it seems that the vehicle entering the roundabout has priority, and going all the way around the circle is unnecessary if you can go straight ahead. Navigating Marrakech with its countless roundabouts was quite an experience. At least I was wide awake after that!

Today’s journey was short. I rode south and watched the Atlas Mountain range emerge from the mist. Some peaks soar over 3,000 metres and are still snow-capped. A few kilometres before Ourigane, I turned right to enter the Azzaden valley, where I’ll be staying tonight at Dar Da Omar, Auberge des Arts (https://www.google.com/travel/hotels/s/HF1UrmrTBjgBCxXS6).

After Moulay Brahim, the road became increasingly twisty as I entered the Atlas. The valley where I’m spending the night is remote and sparsely populated, but the welcome was all the warmer for it. The lady of the house offered me tea, almonds, and some biscuits. My room is spacious, and I have internet access, although with a very slow connection!

I was told I’ll be dining with the family. For the first time, I was asked if I have any food allergies, very thoughtful! Meanwhile, I’m enjoying some dates I bought last night in Marrakech’s famous Jemaa el-Fna square. They’re exquisite.

Today, I covered 75 km in 1 hour and 40 minutes.