Ouirgane Valley

Set at around 1,000 metres in the N’Fis valley, 65 km south of Marrakech, Ouirgane is one of the most peaceful escapes in the High Atlas. The road passes through Asni, with the peaks of the Toubkal massif as a backdrop, then reaches a valley of orchards, olive and pomegranate trees surrounded by wooded mountains.

The Yacoub El Mansour dam lake reflects the surrounding mountains. All around, mud-brick Berber villages can be explored on foot, by mule or on horseback, and the valley is also great for kayaking and mountain biking. On Thursdays, the weekly souk draws families down from the neighbouring villages.

Ouirgane is also an ideal stop on the road to the Tizi n’Test pass: the Almohad Tinmel Mosque, built in 1156, lies about an hour further south. Guesthouses and eco-lodges welcome travellers who wish to extend their stay in peace and quiet.

Affected by the September 2023 earthquake, the valley is welcoming visitors again: staying here and hiring local guides directly supports the families of the region.