We reach the coast!

Slept well to the sound of a raging river, breakfast on the terrace then a walk back down to the village where we left our luggage. I decided not to take a mule ride back down again. But a few of us set off earlier than the fast normal walkers. We took a different route - more gradual slope, loads of zig zags and switch backs, frequent clambering out of the way of passing baggage laden mules. It took one and a half hours - my poor knees! Of course, then I sat on a bus all day so they seized up even more.

We stopped at Branson's pad. Abdou says that sometimes they're allowed to come in and look round. Not today. We got the brochure though. Next time!

A stock up with goodies for a picnic on the way. Some service station/ restaurant places don't mind that groups come and sit at their tables and use their facilities, just buying a coffee or cold drink. Today's one was particularly lovely - we sat in a garden under the shade of orange trees. And the toilets were lovely!

We stopped to have a wee lesson on the Argen trees. But no luck with the classic shot of the goats up in the high branches. There is too much good grass for them at the moment to bother climbing. Argen trees only grow in this area. They've tried planting them in similar climates, with no luck. The oil is used for all sorts of oils and cosmetics. Further along the road we stopped at one of the many women's collectives. The (mainly older) women do all the cracking of nuts, pressing of oils and making the paste by hand. Very labour intensive. We were allowed to take photos - made a nice change.

We then arrived on the coast, in Essaouira. What a treat! A hot shower was never more enjoyed! We've just been out for a stroll, and had a crepe and a coffee in the main square and people watched. Could have sat there all night, but it got a bit chilly.

Essaouira is a fishing town - the harbour is FULL of wee blue boats! Tomorrow is a walking tour of the town, then free time.

It feels like a real relaxing treat at the end of our 'adventure holiday'. With wifi.

I think we've earned it.