Monarch Travel: Your Travel
Agency in Morocco
Morocco
only 14Km from South of Europe
Morocco is the land of a thousand contrasts. With its diversity of landscapes, exceptional cuisine, and breathtaking nature, coupled with an extraordinary cultural and human heritage, Morocco is enticing. In Morocco, nature has given free rein to its imagination. From the Atlas to the Rif Mountains, from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean shores, from the wide sandy bays to small isolated rocky coves, from the southern large golden dunes to green oasis, the charm is boundless.
Tangier
The
gateway to Morocco & Africa
Legendary shores between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, two capes are looming proudly to chisel the beautiful Tangier landscape, Cape Malabata, Cape Spartel houses, the spectacular Caves of Hercules, natural caves with stunning views over the Strait of Gibraltar, lit by a single pass over the ocean which walls shaped like a map of Africa. Located in northern Morocco, Tangier overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar, 15 km off the Spanish coast, glorified by artists and scholars from all around the world who have walked its land and created their works (Henri Matisse, Eugene Delacroix, Paul Bowles and many others ...).
Tetouan
The
white dove
Tetouan is set where the mountain reaches into the sea. Sometimes green and lush, sometimes with translucent blue hues, Tetouan, the beautiful subtly combines the sweetness of the Mediterranean to the authenticity of the Rif. Surrounded by wild landscapes, canyons, wadis, steep trails on one side and beautiful beaches with wavering waters that run along the coast on the other side, Tetouan shows its natural grace.
Chefchaouen
The
blue city
Registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010, its rustic charm stems from its mysterious alleys where you can stroll among the white and bright blue painted houses looking out onto the fruit tree shaded Andalusian patios. Its medina is buried in the mountains and its winding cobbled streets, with colorful stalls and spicy scents are meandering beautifully along its slopes. Its main square is dominated by the red ramparts of the Kasbah, built in the seventeenth century with colorful Andalusian gardens and a small museum where you may find treasures of embroidery and colorful and varied clothes in the style of those worn by the women of the area.
Fez
Unesco
World Heritage & home of oldest university in the world
History: Founded in the 9th century and home to the oldest university in the world (Al Qaraouiyine founded by Lady Fatima Al Fihria), Fez reached its height in the 13th–14th centuries under the Marinids, when it replaced Marrakesh as the capital of the kingdom. The urban fabric and the principal monuments in the medina – madrasas, fondouks, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains - date from this period. Although the political capital of Morocco was transferred to Rabat in 1912, Fez has retained its status as the country's cultural and spiritual center.
Moroccan architecture is rich, alluring, and as varied as the landscape of the country itself. Its long history of indigenous Berber people and a series of foreign invaders as well as religious and cultural influences have shaped the countries architectural styles. The architecture can range from ornate with bold with colors to simple, clean lines with earth tones. Morocco’s architecture has been described as exotic, majestic, eclectic, contemporary and traditional a true mix.
The great classic dishes: The imperial cities offer plenty of renowned dishes perpetuated from generation to generation. Heir to the thirteenth century Arab-Andalusian cuisine, Moroccan culinary art combines deliciously the sweet and salted, expertly using all sorts of spices and condiments: cumin, coriander, saffron, paprika, cinnamon... Ingredients found in the pigeon pastilla with almonds, a local recipe. The light puff pastry that envelops the filling is a specialty that Fez women transmit to each other from generation to generation…
Meknes
The city that defies time!
Meknes is one of Morocco’s imperial cities, which medina is listed as
world heritage of humanity. Embedded between the Atlantic plains and the Eastern
highlands, between the northern Middle Atlas and the hills of the Rif Mountains,
it unveils a harmonious splendor. You will never forget your visit in-side its
walls where are combined wellness in its purest form, smooth lifestyle and ancient
grandeur. Meknes, with its architectural heritage, is an enchantment for its
visitors: its wide ramparts, impressive palaces, its mosques, madrasahs, gardens,
pools and museums.
The ramparts of the city covering nearly 40 km in length are pierced 20 fortified gates, towers and bastions.
Around
Meknes
Moulay
Driss Zerhoun: About twenty miles north of Meknes, built on the rocky
out-crop overlooking the valley of Oued Erroumane, the quiet town of Moulay
Idriss houses the mausoleum of the founder of the Idris-sides dynasty.
Volubilis Roman ruins: another key city in the region, was listed World Heritage by UNESCO in 1997. Volubilis is the largest archaeological site in Morocco and is renowned for the many mosaics decora-ting the antique buildings.
Rabat
A
capital to live
Imperial city, cosmopolitan centre of commerce and capital of Morocco, Rabat is a delight for holidaymakers. It’s a grand city, full of fine buildings and welcoming people, with plenty to see and plenty to do. Over the centuries Rabat has been owned by the Phoenicians, Romans, Almohads and Merenids and you’ll find plenty of monuments in the city to these past cultures, not least in the ancient medina. But it’s not all about history in Rabat, there are many fine restaurants to eat in, world class hotels to stay at, and a long warm beach to relax on.
Casablanca
Mosaic
of civilizations & tallest minaret in the world
Hectic
and modern, Casablanca, the economic capital of the kingdom, is a city which
never sleeps.
Impetuous, vibrant and frenzied by nature, it shows its worldly flamboyance
and traditional charm, a duality it demonstrates immoderately with brilliance.
While eyeing the future, Casa the white will retain openly its original aura.
Between modernism and authenticity, it cultivates an ever-renewed and secret
energy.
Marrakech
The
city of the 7 saints
Unmissable
ochre city
A mystical and yet exciting city, sparkling with life, Marrakech reveals its
splendor to tourists eager to discover art galleries, exhibitions, celebrities,
luxurious palaces and trendy nights. Its thrilling magic works divinely, know
why?: People always come back. Marrakech is more than ever a city of artists.
The many art galleries and literary cafes, offering beautiful spaces dedicated
to painters, sculptors and artists are here to prove.
Handmade
Treasures
Strong with an artisan origin, Morocco has cumulated over history typical
business activities and knowhow immortalized from father to son. Each region
is distinguished by its craftsmanship and its field of competence. The traditional
souks of the medinas exhibit admirable ingenuity and traditional works shaped
by talented hands. An un-matched dexterity whose secrets are transmitted inside
the workshops boundaries by master craftsmen.
Marrakech,
a world of Golf & Wellness
Friendliness,
taste and elegance, the golf courses are an invitation to exceptional moments,
and relaxation in the open air. Distinguished by specific settings, they are
some-times near the ocean, surrounded by dunes, embedded in lush nature or at
the heart of ancestral sites. Discover the unique golf courses in a country
where the sense of hospitality and service are legendary. Agadir, Marrakech,
Rabat, Casablanca, Benslimane, Essaouira, Tangier, Cabo Negro, Bouznika, Settat,
Lixus, Saidia, Fez, Meknes, El Jadida and Mazagan, they are all golfing destinations
for all the fans. Each course has its own personality, the fruit of its architecture
and the wide variety of lands, trees and climates found in Morocco. Whether
beginners or professionals, all players here will find a golf course to their
liking, with personalized services. The
hammam is a ceremony of blessings and virtues that has its origins in the Greco-Roman
antiquity.
Spas are developing very fast in all Moroccan cities. You will find a full range
of services combining quality natural products and expert hands, for a unique
sensory journey. From aromatic massages to face treatments, scrubs and baths,
all for one purpose: to offer you a great time. Spa in Morocco is the quality
of treatment, the change of scenery and an enchanting atmosphere. With its 3000
kilometers of Atlantic coastline and 500 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline,
Morocco has everything to provide care quality thalassotherapy.
Essaouira
The
Portuguese city of Mogador
The
city of tropical trade winds
In Essaouira, far from the urban bustle, delight and easy living are always
on the agenda. Proud and imposing, the city proudly unveils its landscape of
towering walls, historical fortifications and guns pointed towards the ocean.
Listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, its medina, dotted with proud and
untouched buildings travels through the ages and seems protected from the ravages
of time. You can stroll and let yourself be taken by the fragrance of spices
and scents of wood working. Inside the medina, the Moulay Hassan square is the
liveliest place in the city, near the ramparts and the port where grilled fish
is savored by all amateurs. Further away, in an old stately house built the
nineteenth century, the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah museum presents the cultural
heritage of Essaouira. Essaouira, a renowned art city, is a harmonious watercolor,
and offers, along its walls, frescoes of powerful colors. In its streets a range
of art galleries, exhibit the works of local talent. Legendary setting of Orson
Welles’ film «Othello», and a replica of Jerusalem in the
movie «Kingdom of Heaven», it falls in step with the major film
productions. Essaouira also vibrates to the rhythm of music, especially Gnaoua
percussions during its annual festival.
Sports
naturally
Along the coast connecting Safi, Essaouira, Dakhla, are some of the best surf
spots in the world. Today the region is world famous for its powerful waves
and steady swell from September to April. Another revered spots for surfers,
the coast of Imessouane is a paradise of bio-diversity, wild and authentic,
where you can surf all year round. Essaouira is a mecca for surfers. The city
has become in recent years, a paradise for water sports and hosts the final
stage of the Kiteboarding World Cup, a rendezvous the best kiteboarders world
never miss.
Agadir
& Taghazout
The
meeting point of the sun & the sea
Agadir: the pearl of Souss Massa. As a start, Agadir has one of the most beautiful beaches in Morocco, an escape where you can forget alll about your daily routine, and chill in a propitious laze. Agadir is also a place where tourisme parallels with well-being: Sports, and fitness in one of the seaside thalassotherapy centers. A vacancy from which you can go back home brand new, and full of energy. Being the capital o Souss Massa region, Agadir is also a cultural and economical city. Its littoral extends to the Southern Saharan provinces. Today, Agadir's port is the main fishing center in the country. The new city og Agadir allying modernity ans simplicity which is pictured in green spaces, big avenues, floral gardens, and elegant contemporary architecture.
Taghazout:Some kilometers away from the city, the village of Taghzout is a real paradise for surfers, the beaches of the region of Souss Massa offer all surf conditions due to a climate associated with satisfying waves, suitable for surf beginners, as well as professional surfers. Everything contributes to make your favorite sport practic go well and in excellent atmosphere. Starting from Surf in Taghzout to Tamraght, climate conditions are optimal; the unleashed waves from the Atlantic ocean, the wind, and water temperature are ideal assets encouraging the Surf practice. it is visited by Jimi Hendrix, Frank Zappa... 7 Km long. Taghazout beach is bordered by high Atlas mountains. K point, La Source and the Anka point, H point are some of the numerous spots knwon worldwide and located in Taghazout.
Dakhla
Also called the Moroccan Antilles
Dakhla
is an enclave of a striking beauty. Mysterious, it is a unique peninsula. The
city hosts a great annual cultural and sport festival in February between sea,
sky and desert. Dakhla is the kingdom of board sports where many tourists and
locals get carried away by its massive waves. Something which makes it stands
as the undisputed queen of the wave.
Before crossing the ocean, Antoine de Saint-Exupery stayed there and probably
wrote a part of his famous work "Le Petit Prince"..
Board
sports in Dakhla
In Dakhla they practice all sports including windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand
up paddle. In late February, the international surfing competition takes place
in Labouir Foum, the stronghold board sports. Dakhla is also where the world
longest race takes place with over 40 km. In this unique competition, the best
windsurfers and kite surfers in the world compete .
Saidia
One
of the longest beaches on the Mediterranean
Saidia, the blue pearl. With a pleasant beach, shallow clear waters, a backcountry which calls for adventure and excursions, Saidia, is the new beach resort and the future jewel of the Mediterranean coast. Saidia is becoming a tourist attraction in the heart of Eastern Moroccan, two or three hours from the major European cities by two international airports, Oujda and Nador. With a marina worthy of a boating destination equipped to international standards and considered to be the third largest marina in the Mediterranean. The city boasts of 4 and 5 star hotels, villas and luxury residential apartments, three golf courses and a «Medina Center» with many shops, restaurants and cafes. Close to Saidia, the small fishing village of Ras el Maa is not without charm. Small eucalyptus covered dunes dot the landscape, with a well protected beach backed to a cliff and a site of biological interest at the mouth of the Moulouya.
Ifrane
The
little Switzerland of Morocco
The
Second cleanest city in the world & the largest cedar forest in the world.
Ifrane, nicknamed Morocco’s Switzerland is a charming traditional province
at 1650 m. Dis-playing an urban character reminiscent of the alpine resorts
with stone chalets and red tile roofs, it has a delightfully quiet and discreet
atmosphere. The mountain tops are often snowy in winter and the landscapes are
pastoral. Skiers should not miss the slopes of nearby stations, Michlifen (2036m)
and Jbel Heb (2104m).
Beni-Mellal
& Azilal
In
the center of the Atlas
Nature
for adventure
Enjoy a stop in Beni Mellal to bathe in the springs of Ain Asserdoune
or the Ouzoud waterfalls (highest in North-Affrica). With its waterfalls and
many streams, the area is perfect for canoeing and kayaking, rafting and canyoning.
We can also go fishing on the lake of Bin el Ouidane, north of Azilal. In Beni
Mellal you can go paragliding, jump with a parachute or ride an ultralight aircraft
and fly over the valleys of the Atlas.
Atlas
Mountains
and
their highest peak of North-Africa
The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in the Maghreb. It separates the Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines from the Sahara Desert. It stretches around 2,500 km through Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The range's highest peak is Toubkal, which is near Marrakech, with an elevation of 4,167 metres (13,671 ft).
-
The Middle Atlas (maximum height of 3,356 meters, with the
Jbel Bou Naceur)
- The High Atlas (maximum height of 4,167 meters, with the
Toubkal)
- The Little Atlas or Anti-Atlas (maximum height of 2,712 meters,
with the Amalun`Mansur)
.
Ouarzazate
& Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
the Moroccan Hollywood
Guardian
of the Kasbah
Filled with powerful serenity, the majestic Ouarzazate Kasbah stand
on the heights of the city, great ocher citadels built in adobe, a mixture of
clay and straw. See for example the Taourirt Kasbah and the Tifoultout Kasbah,
two imposing buildings listed as national heritage. You must also visit the
epic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou located thirty kilometers from Ouarzazate, and
listed as world heritage by UNESCO.
An
epic aura
Setting of great film productions in the world, the city hosts the
best of cinema. With its magnificent set-ting for great international films,
Ouarzazate has been, for decades the meeting place of the directors in the world.
For example «Kundun» by Martin Scorsese, «The Jewel of the
Nile» by Lewis Teague, «Tea in the Sahara» by Bernardo Bertolucci,
«Gladiator» and «Kingdom of Heaven» by Ridley Scott,
«Asterix and Obelix» by Alain Chabat . With several movie studios
and a film museum, its visitors are immersed in incredible settings. The city
has also founded a film school offering training programs in film business,
a commendable initiative to encourage young talent in the making.
The Moroccan desert
Merzouga
dunes
and its highest dune reaches around 300
meters
Of all the sand seas in Morocco, the Erg Chebbi dunes are arguably
the highest and most easily accessible due to a paved road that runs inland
from Rissani to Merzouga and beyond. The dunes are spectacular, especially at
sunrise and sunset, when the shadows lengthen and they take on a reddish hue.
Zagora
52 days to Timbuktu straight through Sahara by camel
From Zagora to Tamegroute: A taste of the desert
Green oasis and main stop before the caravan route leading once to Timbuktu,
Zagora contrasts with the dunes of the Sahara, and is surprising by its colors:
bunches of yellow dates at the top of palm trees, pink laurel flowers, mud houses
and ocher slopes of the “Jebel Zagora”. Further away, the road continues
through the mountains and on a strip of cultivated land to the village of Tamegroute.
Several mosques with blue faience covered roofs and white minarets lie ahead,
as well as a renowned madrasa and a famous library containing religious works
of great value.
Info source : MNTO
To learn more on Morocco destination, please also check MNTO portal : Visitmorocco.com