A brief but intense stay? Ouarzazate is the ideal destination for answering the call of the desert and, also the call of the valleys, the adobe fortresses, the oases…
Ever since Lawrence of Arabia was shot there in 1962, Ouarzazate has been a top spot for filming. The vicinity is full of surreal scenery: steeples, Roman temples, Egyptian statues, a Tibetan temple and even the temple of Jerusalem in full-size! Ouarzazate really thumbs its nose at the course of time!
The Taourit kasbah, situated less than 2km to the east of Ouarzazate, is considered to be the most beautiful adobe building in Morocco for its proportions and exquisite decoration. In the Tiffoultoute kasbah, where some scenes of Lawrence of Arabia were shot, take a break on the terrace often full of storks' nests. The vista is unforgettable. The ruins of the towers of the Tasmela kasbah are, too, covered with storks' nests.
When the sun seems to dominate the area, there are still oases and fertile valleys which allow life to flourish. The Fint oasis, an hour's drive from Ouarzazate, is splendid, nestled in a green rift dotted with kitchen gardens and palm trees. The green Drâa Valley, an hour and a half from Ouazazate, is lined with palm groves with ancient watchtowers overhanging them. Magic.
Even for a short stay, Ouarzazate is able to satisfy your most urgent needs for a change of scenery. Natural or cardboard, the scenery will always hold surprises for you!