Marrakesh Express

The middle section of the Kingdom of the West begins in fascinating Fez, the country’s artistic, intellectual and spiritual capital. The riders should make time to explore its incredible medina, a confusing labyrinth of alleys, souks, fountains and squares that will boggle the mind. The route heads south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, home to the endangered primate, Barbary macaque, wild boar and the weasel like polecat. The cyclists will pedal through the small town of Midelt, surrounded by apple orchards and offering great views of the looming High Atlas Mountains. They then continue on into the stunning Ziz Gorges and through the incredible Tunnel du Legionnaire, built by the French in 1928 before heading out into the desert for a rest day in Merzouga, set majestically amongst the sand dunes.

After enjoying a sunset camel ride and perhaps a dawn walk to watch the sun rise over the desert, the riders will head back towards the High Atlas Mountains, across the desolate plains before stopping in the dusty mining town of Tinehir to explore the palm oasis on the edge of town and the historic oasis town of Skoura with its extensive palm groves fed by rivers flowing from the nearby mountains. The area is home to numerous kasbahs (fortified family mansions) and ksours (fortified villages). A rest day in Ait-Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location for films such as Lawrence of Arabia, allows the riders to imagine life here in medieval times. The last 2 days takes the cyclists up through the scenic Zat Valley and into Marrakesh and the end of this fascinating section.

Highlights

• Imperial City of Fez
• Dunes of Merzouga
• Oasis Towns
• Ait-Benhaddou