El Kelaa M'Gouna

The region known as the Valley of the Roses essentially forms a triangle, stretching north to Bou Thaghrar and west to Boumalne du Dadès from Kelaâ M'Gouna. It is in fact a confluence of several valleys that meet at the village of Bou Thaghrar. The local Berber population cultivates the Rosa Damascena on the slopes of the High Atlas, and the richness of the soil boosts the pigment of the blooms. Throughout the drive from Kelaâ M'Gouna to Boumalne du Dadès (N10) you'll see thousands of small pink Persian blossoms dividing the fields and fringing the highway. To reach the terraced rose gardens higher up in the Valley of the Roses, take the signposted route north from Kelaâ M'Gouna as far as Bou Thaghrar. From there you have to proceed on foot. Guides are essential and can be found in Bou Thaghrar for about 250 DH per day.