Todra Gorge

Today was a 'rest day'. For some. Three energetic folk went off on the long hike to the top of the mountains early this morning. Seven went off on the walk along the river.

Six of us had a relaxing morning by the pool, and using the dodgy wifi. Our dog breeder has sent us new photos of the puppy litter, and I could eventually download the photos this morning!!

This is an amazing setting for a hotel, in the narrow gorge with steep cliffs all around. The facilities are pretty basic, but it was SOOOO comfy last night after a fairly sleepless - but worth it - night in the desert.

About 11am we went in the van further up the spectacular Todra Gorge, then walked along it. More of the huge red cliffs, rising about 300 metres straight up, with a wee river through it. Popular for rock climbing.

The gorge was jam packed with local young folk - the boys playing drums or football, the girls in groups sitting with their feet in the river. Lots of stalls selling wee rugs, scarves etc. It must have been nearly 40 degrees in the sun, but fortunately shade was plentiful.

After we had met up with the other two energetic groups, we were taken to a family house for a meal. This was very special, and it was only 70 Dirhams. Considering I had paid 70Dh for a Casablanca beer on the first night, it was exceptional value. We had chick pea soup, mixed salad, and a Berber pizza. With water supplied, which isn't usual. Then they took us downstairs to look at their carpets. Wonderful carpets, all made by local women collective. A couple of carpets were bought. Not by us, though it was really really really tempting.

Back to relax at the hotel for the afternoon. Laundry has been done for us.

It's a great group. And I have eventually learned everyone's names!