Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley is a palm-lined gorge in the foothills of the High Atlas, about 30 km inland from Agadir on the road to Imouzzer Ida Outanane. A mountain river runs through it, forming a chain of turquoise rock pools between cliffs, palm trees and oleanders — a true oasis in the mountains.

From Essaouira, the day follows the Atlantic coast south through argan country, with a stop at a women-run argan oil cooperative, before turning inland towards the mountains. A short walk leads down to the pools, where you can swim in the warmer months, relax on the rocks and have lunch at a riverside café.

It is a long but rewarding day, with around 3 hours of driving each way. Water levels depend on recent rainfall, so the pools are at their best in spring and after wet winters.