Le Jardin du safran
Almost anything thrives in Ourika’s rich soil, including saffron (Crocus sativus), organically grown here from bulbs that are cultivated near Talouine. Saffron is a high-maintenance plant, with flowers harvested before dawn for maximum potency. Guided tours are given by staff who reiterate key points on explanatory placards.
the village of Setti Fatma
One of the main destinations for day-trippers from Marrakech, Setti Fatma is a top place for nature lovers. Attracting both domestic and international visitors, the charming village has traditional buildings that were homes when the area was a Berber settlement.
Jardin Bio-Aromatique d'Ourika
Just after the bridge in Tnine, signs off the main road point down a dirt track towards the organic botanical gardens of a Franco-Moroccan natural bath-product company that combines Berber herbal remedies with modern aromatherapy. The garden certainly smells great, and a footbath and foot massage with organic essential oils (Dh250) is just the thing after a trek.
traditional Berber house
Several families in the Ourika Valley make a living by inviting tourists into their homes to experience the traditional Berber way of life. Some experiences must be pre-booked, while you can simply show up at other places and take a peek inside. Common activities include seeing traditional cooking implements and learning about different dishes and cooking methods, sitting down for a chat over a pot of mint tea, and tasting freshly baked bread.
