Across the Atlas

This Moroccan section begins in Casablanca where, after visiting the stunning Hassan II Mosque, riders are transferred along the Atlantic coast to the historic port town of Essaouira. From there the route heads inland to Taroudant, its laid-back medina ringed by imposing red mud-brick walls, before climbing into the High Atlas Mountains over the awesome Tizi n'Test pass, prized for its panoramic views and challenging switchbacks. A rest day in Marrakesh follows, giving riders time to explore the Jemaa el Fna, the city's incredible open-air square full of acrobats, musicians, storytellers and fortune tellers.

The route continues to Ait-Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and film location for movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, then through the magnificent Dades and Todra Gorges before arriving in Merzouga, set amongst the dunes of the Sahara Desert. Here riders can opt for a sunset camel ride and a dawn walk to watch the sun rise over the desert.

From Merzouga the route heads back towards the High Atlas Mountains and on to the Imperial City of Fez, Morocco's artistic, intellectual and spiritual capital. Riders then continue to the famous Blue City of Chefchaouen before finishing this incredible section in Tangier, ready to cross to Spain for those continuing on to the Al Andalus section.

Highlights

• Fortified village of Aït Benhaddou (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Sahara Desert dunes at Merzouga, with optional sunset camel ride and dawn walk
• Imperial City of Fez
• Crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Test pass
• Dades and Todra Gorges
• Blue-washed city of Chefchaouen

Surface and terrain:
1–5% unpaved roads; a touring or gravel bike with 35–40c tyres is recommended. Includes sustained mountain climbing over the High Atlas via the Tizi n'Test pass. Tour is e-bike friendly.

Suitable for:
Experienced tourers comfortable with long daily distances (averaging around 95km on riding days) and mountain climbing. Adventure category, 3.5/5 difficulty score.