Morocco is the junction between Europe and Africa, between Christianity and Islam, and between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. It is a true marvel not only from a cultural standpoint but also territorially.
Even more so for those who, like us, travel by motorcycle. The diversity of landscapes makes the journey a true adventure, from mountains to desert areas, from the sea to green plains, all allowing us to enjoy breathtaking sceneries. If you are still not convinced, here are some points to reflect on as to why Morocco could be your next destination.
MUCH MORE THAN THE DESERT
Sometimes when thinking about Morocco, one only focuses on the renowned Sahara Desert. It is not hard to imagine riding the red sand dunes up to the nearest oasis, but this is not all. Morocco offers an incredible variety of environments: starting from the winding roads along the Mediterranean where you can travel for miles and miles, passing through small rural villages, and crossing the Atlas Mountains, which reach over 4000 meters above sea level. Then, we find imperial cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fès, each with its own spectacular medina. Architectural structures are not lacking, both natural ones, such as the gigantic rock arches present on some southern beaches, and artificial ones like the kasbahs, typical straw and mud constructions.
A HOSPITABLE COUNTRY
Undoubtedly, many people have prejudices about Morocco and its inhabitants. Unfortunately, the media and the reputation they sometimes have in European countries can deter one from considering this land a good destination, but this is a big mistake. If you are ever fortunate enough to have a Moroccan friend or a good local acquaintance, you will immediately realize how guests are pampered. Expect, indeed, for your welcome a good banquet where there is no lack of typical Maghreb tea, as well as sweets and small savory treats, all on small tables set as if for a grand feast. And, in case you go for the first time without knowing anyone, enjoy the alleys and discover the goodness of the local people. You will surely return home surprised, maybe having shared a Cous-cous or a nice dish of Tajine.
SPICY FLAVORS
Yes indeed, as mentioned earlier, there are many dishes and flavors to taste. Most of them have strong flavors, the result of Arab, Moorish, Berber, and Spanish traditions, as well as Eastern influences and the more recent colonial history, French and English. The meal time in Morocco is not just for nourishment but is a moment of the day to savor slowly, to enjoy the aroma and let oneself be enveloped, as well as a convivial space. The national dish par excellence is cous-cous, usually accompanied by a stew of lamb and vegetables. The tajine, also very common, with its numerous variants, is an excellent stew of meat or fish and vegetables flavored with herbs and spices; the name derives from the container in which it is cooked, a shallow clay dish covered with a conical lid. Then, there is the pastilla, one of the most loved dishes: it is a mixture composed of pigeon meat, eggs flavored with lemon, almonds, cinnamon, saffron, and sugar, all enclosed in several layers of a phyllo dough. Along the coast, there is no lack of good fresh fish such as sardines, soles, seabasses, shrimps, squids, etc. A Moroccan meal is not complete without fresh bread, fundamental also at breakfast, where it is usually dipped in olive oil, accompanied by sweet and hot mint tea.
THE EXTRAORDINARY MEDINAS
Morocco is a country full of history and culture, and one way to understand them is to immerse yourself in a nice tour of the many medinas of the cities, from which one cannot help but be captivated by so much beauty. Medinas are nothing but the historical center of the cities, which consist of small streets forming almost a labyrinth, with houses developed with internal courtyards, the so-called “Riad,” and sunny squares. The squares are the nerve center of Moroccan life; here we find the mosque with the adjacent Koranic school, the drinking water fountain, the hammam, and the traditional oven. Each Medina has its own charm, in particular, we wish to highlight those of Marrakech (UNESCO cultural heritage), Fez, Asilah, and Tetuán. You will not be disappointed.
To conclude, if you want to return home with infinite emotions among diverse and incredible landscapes, excellent food, and abundant culture, Morocco is the right place for you and your motorcycle!