Taroudant

Like Marrakech, Taroudant has imposing adobe ramparts, adorned with square towers. A 7km horse-drawn carriage tour around it reveals its five gates, Bab El-Kasba being the main one and the most majestic. The excellent condition of the crenellated fortifications demands respect. Large fruit orchards surround the city. Its medina and its souks are very lively. The profusion of decorative items, jewelry and other antiques is astonishing.

Surrounded by mountains – the Upper Atlas to the north and east and the Anti-Atlas range to the south – Taroudant is at the center of a fertile valley. Perched on a rocky outcrop 30km to the south east, the village of Tiout looks over a palm grove which is reminiscent of the one in Marrakech. The ruins of an ancient kasbah transformed into a restaurant for tourists looks down onto the site. From the top of this outcrop, there is an exceptional view over the Upper Atlas and the Souss valley. Out of interest, Fernandel filmed Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves in this palm grove in 1954.

In addition to specializing in Berber crafts and silver items, the city of Taroudant is famous for its tanneries. It is easy to understand by visiting the souk tanners. Forty artisans working under your eyes skins of sheep, goats but also more exotic animals. Agricultural side, the region Amagour, pretty village located 32 km south of Taroudant, are covered argan. Argan oil, used in cosmetics and kitchen is ubiquitous in the region. Just as valuable and sought after saffron flower shot with fields that extend around Taliouine will amaze you.