Visit Rural Morocco | Authentic Experiences in Souss Massa

Cedrat Valley

  • Valley

In the Anti-Atlas mountains, where nature unfolds its most precious secrets, lies a hidden gem—the Valley of Cedrates. This breathtaking oasis, nestled just 38 kilometers south of Taroudant, is a true invitation to wonder and discovery. Upon visiting, you’ll be captivated by the lush greenery surrounding you. The serene atmosphere and tranquil air create a peaceful ambiance. The vibrant environs offer a serene escape from the everyday, allowing you to unwind and appreciate nature’s magnificence. Time seems to slow down, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in the valley’s beauty and simply bask in its natural splendor.

The Anti-Atlas range is renowned for its breath-taking landscapes, concealing many of nature’s marvels within its boundaries. One such marvel is the Cedrates Valley, an extraordinary oasis located a short distance from Taroudant city. Arriving at this valley, you’ll be invited to explore its wonders and embrace the surroundings. Lush greenery will encompass you, providing a sanctuary for rejuvenation and tranquility.

A Path to the Unexpected

You must take Road 1714 towards Assadss and Tamguinsift villages to reach this natural treasure. There, your vehicle stops, leaving you to walk. Don’t worry; every step brings you closer to the region’s hidden wonders. A 3 kilometer canyon trek leads you to the valley’s treasures. The Oued Assadss riverbed guides you as nature transforms around you. Lush vegetation, towering palm trees against the blue sky, and refreshing coolness envelop you.

The Kingdom of Cedars

In the middle of this paradise, there’s an incredible sight of rare beauty. Due to an ingenious drainage system, moisture is everywhere, even during dry times. The slopes get watered, making a fertile grove for one of the oldest crops: cedar trees.

Cedars, also called “etrogs,”  are special citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. Jewish people value them, especially during the Feast of Tabernacles. For centuries, local Berbers have grown these fruits, once sold to Moroccan Jews. Now, they’re hugely traded and exported worldwide to Jewish communities, sometimes at very high costs.

A Meeting With History and Tradition

Nestled in the heart of a picturesque landscape, the Cédrats Valley offers a captivating journey through a tapestry of cultural richness and historical fascination. Every cedar whispers tales of its enduring presence, while each vibrant fruit represents a legacy of wisdom and traditions intricately woven across geographies.

Yet, this historic marvel transcends its ancestry, bestowing an entrancing sensory odyssey upon visitors. Succulent citrus fragrances perfume the air, lively fruit hues paint a vivid tapestry against verdant palm fronds, and the melodic murmur of flowing streams lulls the soul into tranquility.

A Treasure to Preserve

As you depart this haven of verdure and tranquility, carry not only memories of its captivating scenery but also an earnest wish to safeguard it. Though secluded and preserved, the Valley of Cedars remains delicate and invaluable. Upon your departure, ensure you leave its natural structure intact, respecting its inhabitants, and maintaining its delicate equilibrium.

By visiting this remote Anti-Atlas region, you embark on a journey transcending mesmerizing landscapes. You uncover a living history, a profound connection with nature, and a lesson in humility before the grandeur of this world. The Cedars Valley holds numerous wondrous surprises, but it’s up to you to unveil them, one stroll at a time.

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