5 Most Spectacular Places to Cycle in Morocco
Author: AdminDate: 2021-11-30 11:19:58City: Illunois
Road Cycling Holidays in Morocco are slowly gaining pace. From the magical Marrakech to the rural simplicity of the Berber villages, Morocco cycling trips through varied geography are not only fascinating but a great way to experience the local culture from scratch
The stunning beauty of the Atlas Mountains, from various routes, directions, and grades, will mesmerize you and make you fall in love with Morocco. On your cycle, you could take to the foothills of Mount Toubkal, golden Kasbahs, verdant valleys, impressive gorges, or the long sandy beaches of Essaouira. Spectacular routes across smooth tarmac roads and rugged climbs over high mountain passes will reward you with breathtaking vistas. Your cycle trip to Morocco will be a memorable one.
1. Agadir
The coastal city of Agadir is a great way to explore the cycle. Whether you’re pedalling through the streets of this friendly city or exploring further afield, this is a great destination for cycling. Hiring bikes and accompanied by a local guide, you can head out to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Morocco. Your Morocco travel can’t get better than this. Cyclists opting for a longer trip to the High or Anti-Atlas mountains are greeted by stunning views of nature with varied shades of green. Riding on and off the road through both lush green valleys and rocky canyons helps you discover the untouched flora and fauna. 33,000 hectares of green spaces, water bodies, and various birds and native animals in the Souss-Massa National Park can be explored all through pedalling.
2. Imlil
This picturesque village in the lap of the High Atlas Mountains, has always been a great cycling destination. Keen cyclists can spend the entire day riding from Marrakech to this Berber countryside and ascend the foothills of the scenic mountains. This awesome journey can be completed in a day. After exploring Imlil and spending the night in local accommodation in Riad Atlas Toubkal, you can continue to Ijoukak. The scenic valley village is located 62 km from Imlil and is equally fascinating. Moroccan vacation is splendid on your cycle.
3. Tafraoute
This oasis town in the Anti-Atlas mountains can be reached by cycling almost 166 km from Agadir. Travelling from the coast to the mountains lets you appreciate the varied topography of Morocco’s diverse terrains. Nestled in verdant valleys, Tafraoute is one of Morocco’s natural gems. Surrounded by nature and exuding a laid-back vibe, local attractions include Les RochesBleues, an eye-catching piece of artwork with painted blue rocks standing out against the naturally red surroundings, Ait Mansour Gorge, hilltop granaries and a lion head-like rock formation – La Tete du Lion.
4. Zagora
Sitting on the fringe of the Sahara desert, the route to Zagora is a spectacular cycling destination of 163 km from Ouarzazate. Starting from Ouarzazate, exploring the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, Taourirt Kasbah and then beginning your journey to the desert through the mountains is awe-inspiring. Soar through the marvellous drama Valley and feast your eyes on the wonderful vistas. Holidays in Morocco can’t get better than this.
5. Ourika Valley
Located 32 km from Marrakech, the fertile Ourika Valley is popular with hikers and cyclists. Snow-capped mountains rise in the distance as you peddle through the verdant country roads. You can witness local life as you cycle through villages and small communities; stop to refuel at a roadside eatery and soak up the atmosphere. You can cycle to Ourika and back in a day. Solo rides are possible if you rent a bicycle, or you can join a guided cycling trip whereby you will be transported part of the way towards the mountains by minivan. Nearby Gadji Valley is another ideal destination for keen cyclists.
The freedom of a cycling holiday is an awesome way to explore the beauty of Morocco. The slower pace gives you a chance to appreciate the kingdom you’re riding through, noticing things you’d never see from any other vehicle.
