Northern Morocco is one of the most charming parts of the country, but one that is often forgotten about when people are thinking about luxury Morocco tours. However, its situation between the rough peaks of the Riff Mountains and the crashing waves of the Mediterranean, makes this part of the world one of the most enchanting.
It is where Tangier is situated after all, a historic city seeing something of a rebirth as a fashionable Moroccan coastal town, dotted with high cliffs and sandy shores. You can also find the charming blue medina of Chefchaouen here, as well as the Spanish influenced Tétouan. The Spanish influence also continues to the enclaves of Ceuta and Melila which are packed full of architectural wonders and medieval fortresses.
Moving further inland, you can escape the stresses and strains of the day with an amble through the less-visited Beni-Snassen national park, although it is a little remote, or by taking a hike through the Riff mountains. With Hasina Morocco Tours it really is your choice.
Some of the top attractions of the Moroccan Mediterranean Coast and Ri mountains include:
Akchour Waterfalls
The path to the Akchour waterfalls is mostly flat and easy to navigate, but there are tagine and tea sellers about every 15 minutes along the route if you do feel the need to refuel. You will be rewarded at the end with a breath-taking view of the waterfalls cascading over the rocks and feeding into a turquoise pool.
God’s Bridge
This huge reddish-brown stone arch becomes even more wonderous when you discover that it wasn’t carved by human hand but by the river itself. To get to this natural wonder, you need to head to Akchour dam and walk along the steep mountainside all the way to the bridge. Alternatively, you can go down into the canyon and follow the river looking up at the dam. You can reward yourself for your effort with a tagine or glass of mint tea from one of the many small cafes that line the route.
It’s important to note that this is a challenging trip, whichever route your take. And please do not try to descend to the river from the bridge, there are lots of loose rocks around that will surely give way.
Kasbah Musem of Mediterranean Cultures, Tangier
The former sultan’s palace is now home to this recently refurbished museum whose focus is on the history of the local area from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Particular exhibits of note include the giant replica maps tracking trade routes from the Phoenician days right up to the modern electrical trade routes, and the mosaic of Venus by Volubilis. Once you are cultured out, you can stroll around the charming Andalusian inspired garden.
The Medina in Tangier
Considered by many to be the top attraction in Tangier, the Medina is a labyrinth of alleyways containing both commercial and residential properties around every turn. Most of the buildings may seem new by Moroccan standards, but the Medina is actually surrounded by the walls of a 15th century Portuguese fortress. It is a great place for tourists to head as it can offer you a real insight into traditional Moroccan living.
Petit Socco, Tangier
Petit Socco, also known as little souk, is one of those places that really tells you everything you need to know about the city in which it is located. This small square situated right in the heart of Tangier is the place to find out about the history and culture of the area. With a history including being frequented by artists and writers such as Allen Ginsberg, who were looking for inspiration, it is the perfect place to sit and sip on a mint tea while watching daily life take place. There are plenty of merchants about selling such delights as crafts, leather goods and spices, so make sure you haggle over your memento.
Plaza de Africa, Ceuta
Some of Ceuta’s most charming architecture can be found in this fine square, which is lined with cobblestone pathways and manicured tropical plants. The sqaure gets its name from the Santuario de Nuestra Senora de Africa, a beautiful yellow baroque-style catholic church that was built in the 17th century – and is still in use today. If there is not a service going on when you visit, feel free to head in and see the painting of the Lady of Africa with Jesus lying dead in her arms.
The Plaza de Africa is also home to the Catedral Santa Maria de la Asuncion, which some consider to be the finest church in Ceuta. This yellow and white cathedral features matching bells in twin spires, whose tips glow red at night. The attached small museum contains many artefacts from the 15th Century, including a pair of silver sceptres.
You should also head over to the Palacio de la Asamblea, a building from the 20th Century that has served both as a palace and a city hall and which features a clock and an elegant dome. The interior features paintings by Ceuta native Mariano Bertuchi.
Hopefully this blog has whet your appetite by showing you some of the sights you could experience on your own VIP Morocco Tours. Contact Hasina, your premier Morocco tours provider, to experience the wonders of Morocco and start your adventure today.
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