Before we dive fully into the mystical heart of Sufism, we need to understand its context, the land in which is took root, grew, and flourished. We need to understand timeless Maroc.
We begin in fabled Marrakech, the “Red City” named for its’ rose stone walls, founded in 1062 and sitting at the edge of the Atlas foothills.
From there we meander through the gorgeous countryside, explore the startling, ingenious earthen fortresses called “Kasbahs” (you probably always wondered what that was – we did), cross over the ridge of the Atlas mountains, pass through Ouarzazate, the “Door of the Desert,” and descend to edge of the trackless sea known as the Sahara.
We’ll dive deeply into the life of the local people: visiting craft studios and agriculture cooperatives. We’ll stay in unique, magnificent “Riads” – traditional Moroccan palace-like homes – and in the evenings we’ll be joined by local Sufis and musicians… slowing the pace of life and easing us into the rhythms of the spirit… the rhythms of the land…
Day 1 April 10, 2015 – Arrival Marrakech
Check into our Riad, Les Yeux Bleus
Day 2 April 11 – explore Marrakech.
Day 3 April 12, 2015 – Ouarzazate
Ksar Ighnda (Breakfast, Lunch)
On the edge of the desert at Ouarzazate where the stunning light shines on a setting of natural beauty, RIAD KSAR IGHNDA opens its doors for you onto the Atlas Mountains: a rendezvous for discerning lovers of luxurious sensations and relaxation.
Day 4 April 13, 2015 – Skoura
Ben Damiette (Breakfast, Lunch)
The guest house Kasbah Ait Ben Damietta is ideally located in the palm of Ouarzazate, at the foot of the High Atlas, 20 miles from the city of Ouarzazate in southern Morocco. The 12 bedrooms, dining room, TV room and bar are all distributed around a patio with a fountain.
Day 5 & 6 April 14-15 2015 – Zagora
Riad Dar Lamane (Breakfast, Dinner)
The whole atmosphere is influenced by the ecological building material, and each room has its personal touch in decor.
This evening enjoy a sunset camel ride into the Sahara and a traditional dinner in a luxurious Berber encampment.
Day 7 April 16, 2015 – Imlil
Dar Imlil (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Dar Imlil is wonderfully situated on the outskirts of Imlil village near the river and looks up to the Mt Toubkal summit. It is about 5 minutes a walk from the centre of Imlil.
Dar Imlil offers a most beautiful setting, quiet and comfortable accommodations for an amazing stay in the Atlas Mountains. Cut off from the bustle of the Marrakech, Dar Imlil opens its doors on a haven of peace .
Day 8 April 17, 2015 – Casablanca, Meridien Royal Mansour
(Breakfast, SPECIAL DINNER at the world-famous Rick’s Cafe!)
Tucked within the walls of old Marrakech, a world away from the bustle of the city, discover pure bliss at the Royal Mansour. The eye is enchanted by the gleam of sumptuous materials, the charm of exotic and mystical objects. Lose yourself wandering in the Riads and alleyways where every turn leads to wonder as nature and architecture come together in subtle harmony.
What can possibly be more iconic of the amazing role that the city of Casablanca played in both history and imagination than the iconic “Rick’s Cafe Americain” from the movie Casablanca?
Out visit to this fabled imperial city will culminate with dinner at Rick’s Cafe, complete with piano player and all the ambience evoked by the film. The only thing missing will be Bogie himself!
