Travel Essentials | Taroudant, Morocco
In our Summer Travel issue, which hit newsstands on Sunday, Christopher Petkanas waxes poetic about Taroudant, an out-of-the-way, stylish haven from Morocco’s well-trodden tourist route. Here’s where to stay, eat and sleep in this remote market town.
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WHERE TO STAY:
DarZahia | Just about 150 miles from Marrakesh, this four-bedroom guesthouse is a traditional mud building. Its clay walls reflect the area’s historic architectural style, and its patios brim with lush jasmine plants. From here, venture out on hiking or horseback riding excursions, or visit the nearby Turkish baths. 175 derb Chrif, Taroudant 83000, Maroc; 011-212-15-341-6223; darzahia-taroudant.com.
Dar al Hossoun | At this property covered in desert gardens, join the peacocks in the gardens, take a swim in one of the pools, bathe in a traditional Turkish bath, enjoy traditional Moroccan rejuvenation remedies at the spa, or learn the basics of traditional Moroccan cooking in the kitchen. 011-212-66-502-8274; alhossoun.com.
La Gazelle D’Or | This privately owned hotel exudes luxury and opulence amid the backdrop of rustic Taroudant. But despite almost palace-like accommodations — the intricately decorated lobby with antique furnishings — the 30-room resort has a laid-back feel, and breakfast is served as late as you wish. La Gazelle d’Or B.P. 260; 011-212-52-885-2039; gazelledor.com.
Aziyade Taroudant | Sip traditional Moroccan mint tea on the pink clay balconies here while taking in the Atlas mountain ranges. This small hotel is only a few miles from the city’s markets, where guests can shop for local foods and crafts. 358 Jnan si Moussa Derb Akka; 011-212-67-762-075; aziyadetaroudant.com.
WHAT TO DO:
The souks | Smaller, but notably cheaper than the markets in Marrakesh, Taroudant’s souks are also known for sellers who are a bit less aggressive and friendlier toward shoppers and browsers than their counterparts in the more touristy Moroccan towns.
Ramparts | Stroll along the reinforced mud walls that surround the city. In the late afternoon and early evening, the walls’ colors change with the position of the sun.
The Souss Massa National Park | Just a short ride from the city and along the Atlantic Ocean, this bird-watching preserve is a good excuse to see what’s outside the city. Catch glimpses of yellow wagtails, greater flamingos, spoonbills and red-necked nightjars at a park that was founded to protect endangered birds.
WHERE TO EAT:
Riad Maryam Restaurant | Hotel dining rooms appear to be the go-to destinations for culinary experiences in Taroudant. This restaurant, with its traditional tagines and homegrown citrus fruits, has the right amount of local flair for, say, a last meal in the city. 140 Db Maalem Mohamed, Bd Mohamed V; 011-212-66-612-7285; riadmaryam.com.
Dar Zitoune Restaurant | A must for vegetarians, who can munch on dishes created with produce — oranges, lemons, papayas, olives and herbs — straight from its gardens. Boutarial El Berrania, 83000 Taroudant, Maroc; 011-212-52-855-1141;
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