World Travel Guide

City Guide  - Marrakech  - Excursions
Excursions


For a Half Day

Atlas Mountains and Setti Fatma:
Set within grassy terraces, at the end of the road that passes through the Ourika Valley is the riverside hamlet of Setti Fatma. The village itself is an unremarkable mud-brick affair, but the seven waterfalls that tumble through the craggy rocks above make it a popular location. The first of the falls is quite an easy climb and it is possible to swim here in the icy cold waters of the rock pool or to sunbathe on the rocks. The higher falls are harder work and sturdy shoes and a good head for heights will be required, although there are plenty of guides willing to offer help. The best way to get to Setti Fatma is by grand taxi from the main bus station in Marrakech (journey time - 90 minutes).

For a Whole Day

Essaouria:
This eighteenth-century coastal resort offers a welcome escape from the hectic atmosphere of Marrakech. With its sandy beach and blue-and-white-painted houses, it has a long association with artists, which continues to this day. It was here at the harbour, the Skala du Port, that Orson Welles shot his film Othello (1952). A series of forts, a blend of Portuguese, French and Berber military architecture, built along the seafront lend a powerful mystique to the town. While the cooling Atlantic breeze, the alizee, has made it popular for surfing, it can be too harsh for sunbathing. The tourist office, on Avenue du Cairebut, is seldom open, but Jack's Kiosk, 1 Place Prince Moulay El Hassan (tel: (04) 475 538) can provide information.
The quickest way of getting to Essaouria from Marrakech is by grand taxi (journey time - two hours). Trains do go there from Marrakech, six times a day (journey time - three hours). An ONCF Supratours Express Bus leaves Marrakech train station at 1130 (journey time - 2.5 hours).



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