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Discover the captivating Valley of Roses

Written on : 11 October 2019
By : Clarisse Haurogné

To discover the beauty of Marrakech and Moroccan culture, sometimes you have to venture off the beaten track. Many treasures are hidden near the red city but are worth a few hours' drive. 

Located about 5 hours by car to the east of Marrakech, the Valley of Roses is a good example of this because it is one of the most authentic and captivating regions in Morocco. And it's not for nothing! If you want to discover why this little piece of paradise is so coveted by travellers, read on...

A paradise of colours not far from Marrakech

A paradise of colours not far from Marrakech

The Valley of the Roses, named M'Goun, is one of Morocco's natural wonders. It takes its name from the pink colour of its land but also from the Damascus roses grown there. Located at the foot of the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, the site is a veritable labyrinth of palm groves and gardens, each more charming than the next, and with spectacular gorges. As you stroll through these green valleys, you will also find fields of poppies and prickly pears surrounded by rose hedges offering a wonderful spectrum of colours. 

Visiting the Valley of Roses also means immersing yourself in history and traditions because Berber culture has remained almost intact in this part of Morocco. Walk along the banks of the Mgoun River and admire these small traditional villages made up of adobe houses and ancient kasbah. Some of them can be visited, like the Mirna kasbah. 

To access it, you will have to go through the town of Kelaat M'Gouna, the main access, then take a small road going north to the charming village of Bou Tharar located at the foot of the cliff and offering an incredible view of the valley. And if you want to fully immerse yourself in the scents and colours of roses, we strongly recommend that you visit the valley during the flowering period, i.e. during the spring months. However, the canyon keeps its enchanting soul all year round so in winter or summer, do not hesitate to come and enjoy the natural beauty of the landscapes. 

Rose growing, an ancestral tradition

Rose growing, an ancestral tradition

The Damascus Rose was introduced a long time ago in Morocco. It was in the 10th century that pilgrims, returning to Mecca, brought this rose to cultivate it for its benefits and scents. Roses are generally harvested during the months of April to June and usually in the morning to preserve the quality of their aroma. These will then be used to produce rose water, also produced in the valley, which will then be used for culinary or cosmetic purposes. 

This tradition is so popular in the region that a Rose Festival is held every year in mid-May in Kelaat Mgouna, coinciding with the date of the rose picking. During 3 days, there are many events such as a product exhibition, floats parades, traditional dances and songs, as well as a shower of petals. 

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