In the year 1713 with the contract of Utrecht, the steep rocky peninsula of Gibraltar became British property. Today, the rock is visited by 4 million people each year, mostly for toll free shopping. Many of Gibraltar’s attractions are linked to its strategic location. Half way up the rock sits the dungeon of a Moorish castle from the 8th century. It is still a prison today. St. Michael’s cave and the monkeys are part of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve.

Without any doubt, the largest attraction in Marrakech is the Jemaa el-Fna square, the "Square of the Beheaded". According to legend, the heads of the executed were placed on wooden spears and exhibited until only the bare skulls were left over. In the afternoon, this square is nowadays occupied by acrobats, dancers, snake charmers and musicians. The bells of the water vendors, which are everywhere to be found, add to the spectacle. In the evening, the scene changes: the entertainers give way to small booths with large kettles, tables and benches. Soon you can smell the kebabs, the spicy sauces and sugar cakes. If you want to try the local cuisine - this is the place!
But during a Marrakech-visit you should not miss a walk through the narrow and colorful streets of the Medina either!

Fes is the oldest of the four imperial cities and beside Marrakech the most interesting city of the country. It is the intellectual centre of Morocco. After the Azhar university of Cairo, the Kairaouine university of Fes is said to be the oldest university of the Islam. Only five minutes from our hotel by taxi and we are going back in time for some hundred years. We can visit the old part of town with an official guide or we can explore it on our own. The most important building in Fes is the Kairaouine mosque, but unfortunately we can only admire it from the outside. Furthermore the visit of a Medersa (school of Koran) is recommendable, as well as the famous quarter of the tanners. Even just walking around and trying to find your own way is an unforgettable experience!

The Gorges du Todra is a popular place to visit, especially during summer. The river is winding through the ravine surrounded by palm trees and cactus plants. Following the river into the gorge we will stop at a typical teahouse to enjoy a 'Thé à la menthe' and the spectacular scenery of the Todra canyon. If you want to be alone, just go ahead and walk for some minutes into the canyon.

This is a fantastic excursion! Already after a few miles we find some Kasbahs in very good condition close to Ait Youl. The Dades river itself is a wonderful contrast to the dry, rocky mountains. After approximately 10 miles there are "The Brains of Morocco", a beautiful rock formation on the eastern side of the valley.