Paradise Valley

A palm gorge 30 kilometers inland from Taghazout, where the river has carved pools into the rock and the Berber women sell argan oil in the shade. Paradise Valley is the escape from the coast — green after the brown, still water after waves. The valley is a series of natural pools connected by scrambles over rocks. Bring water shoes; the stone is slippery. The deepest pools allow swimming and cliff jumping for those who trust the depth. The palms provide shade; the canyon walls provide drama. The drive from Taghazout climbs into the Anti-Atlas through argan forests. Goats climb the trees to eat the nuts; this is not staged for tourists (though it might as well be). The valley fills with Moroccan families on weekends; come on a weekday for relative solitude. Best time: Morning (before crowds) Allow: Half day Combine with: Taghazout beaches and Immouzzer