Morocco Biking – Escape

Ait Ben Haddou

You can fly into Ouarzazate directly (we will meet you at the airport) or fly into Marrakech and take a coach to Ouarzazate and taxi to the hotel- arrive anytime between 4:00-7:00 pm. Ait Ben Haddou is Morocco’s most spectacular ksour, a collection of towered and crenellated Kasbahs that once guarded the lucrative caravan route through the Atlas mountains. We’ll stay at the intimate Ksar Ighnda, a charming and luxurious hotel.

On Day 2 you can cycle up to the incredible kasbah at Telouet, described so evocatively in Gavin Maxwell’s ‘Lords of the Atlas’. After lunch in Telouet, return to Ait Ben Haddou for an afternoon around the swimming pool.

Ouirgane

There is a morning option to ride to the kasbah Telouet along a quiet road, directly from our hotel. Afterwards, we’ll shuttle to lunch and then continue on bikes along a flat stretch of magnificent road where views of snow-capped peaks and lush farmland provide a dramatic change of scenery. Reaching the Ouirgane valley, we’ll stay at the Domaine Roseraie, a stunning property with horses, tennis courts, large pool and spa. Next day, we’ll hike into local villages where we’ll be offered tea and a chance to bake bread in community ovens. Afternoon options include cycling along the enchanting Oued Nfiss to the extraordinary Tin Mal mosque, built in 1156 and recently restored and open to visitors.
Distance D3 : 33 km, elevation gain 156m or 67 km, gain 155m.*
Distance D4 : 49 to 100+ km, elevation gain up to 272m.*
The distance between Ait Benhaddou and Ouirgane is 220 km.

Essaouira

Beginning in the village of Moulay Ibrahim, we will bike a stunning road across the Kik Plateau. Late afternoon, arrive to the hip town of Essaouira, famous for its artisan shops, European feel, and several kilometers of sandy beaches. On our second day, we’ll join a local historian exploring the medina here, where the maze of tiny streets reveal spice markets, marquetry workshops, ancient hammams and more. Cycling options include routes along the coast or to the village of Sidi Kaouki; for those who like to walk there are also hikes to secluded beaches from town. We’ll stay at Villa De L’O, located in the heart of the medina.
Distance D5 : 35 km, elevation gain 235 m.
Distance D6 : 49 km, elevation gain 270m or 25 km, gain 127m.*
The distance between Ouirgane and Essaouira is 210 km.

Marrakech

There may be a an opportunity for an early morning ride to Sidi Kaouiki before departing for Marrakech in time for lunch. Afterwards, we’ll visit the city’s sites including the Marjorelle Gardens, Museum of Yves St. Laurent, and El Bahia Palace; as dusk sets on the extraordinary Jemaa El Fna, we’ll watch as snake charmers, acrobats and street performers of every kind imaginable entertain. We’ll stay at a wonderful Riad near the historical center and for our final night, dine at one of the most atmospheric restaurants in Morocco.
Distance: 40 km, elevation gain 415 m.*
The distance between Essaouira and Marrakech is 185 km.

You can depart at your leisure anytime on this day.

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.