Between Ouarzazate and the Dades Valley, the so-called «Road of a Thousand Kasbahs» passes through two very special places: the Skoura palm grove and the Valley of Roses.
Skoura and the Kasbah Amridil
Skoura is a large oasis of palm, olive and pomegranate trees dotted with adobe kasbahs. The most famous is the Kasbah Amridil, one of the best preserved in Morocco, which even appeared on the old 50-dirham banknotes. Inside you can see how families lived: the kitchen, the granaries, the terraces and the traditional tools.
The Valley of Roses
Around Kalaat M’Gouna, at the foot of the High Atlas, the Damask rose is grown. The rose bushes do not form large fields but hedges that separate the orchards along the river. In spring the valley fills with color and scent, and women pick the flowers at dawn to make rose water, oils and cosmetics.
The rose festival
Every year, usually in May, Kalaat M’Gouna celebrates the rose festival, with music, traditional dances and parades. It is a great time to visit the area.
What to buy
In the valley’s cooperatives you will find rose water, creams and soaps at good prices. They make a perfect souvenir that is easy to carry.
Recommended trips through the Valley of Roses
- 5-day desert trip from Marrakech
- 5 days from Marrakech to the desert
- 10-day tour from Fez to Marrakech
- 13-day desert tour from Tangier
Travel with Vamos a Marrakech
We pass through Skoura and the Valley of Roses on our routes between Marrakech and the desert. Write to us and we will plan a tailor-made trip for you.