Cycle Morocco

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Morocco. Your adventure begins in Marrakech with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not visit the Dar Si Said Museum or nearby Saadian Tombs. Maybe chill out in the Marjorelle Gardens, luxuriate in a hammam or see Marrakech from above on a hot air balloon ride. After the meeting, head out to explore the city’s lively Djemaa el-Fna – one of the largest public spaces in the world, unique to Marrakech. When night falls it transforms into a hive of activity. Henna painters, performers and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar packed with stalls. You’ll have an included welcome dinner here while the performers vie for your attention.

Fuel up with breakfast this morning, then get fitted for your bike – your transport and best friend for the next 13 days. Take a short test ride to make sure everything’s working properly, then begin a cycling tour in and around the city. Start near the royal olive groves of Menara Gardens and ride to well-known sites like Koutoubia Mosque and the Marrakech Medina. Finish your cycle in the Palmeraie – a palm tree oasis. Return to Djemaa el-Fna for an afternoon snack (a street stall pastry) with a glass of fresh orange juice. There will be ample time in the afternoon to freshen up before you board your sleeper train this evening for the journey to Tangier.

Arrive in Tangier this morning and check into your hotel, then meet up with your support crew and vehicle. Saddle up for today’s ride, which starts with an easy ride to the Grottes d'Hercules (Caves of Hercules). Legend says Hercules stayed in this cave before doing his 11th labour – collecting the golden apples from the Hesperides Garden. Its modern uses have been quite varied, from a brothel to a concert venue. From here, the road undulates and climbs as you jump back on the bike to explore Cap Spartel, known to the Romans and Greeks as the 'Cape of the Vines'. Stop by the 19th-century lighthouse and maybe climb up to the top for an amazing view across the Atlantic Ocean. Have lunch here, then a ride downhill back towards Tangiers' Mediterranean port. After, maybe relax with a mint tea at one of the many local cafes.

Leave Tangier behind and travel through the arid inland towards the beachside village of Azla. When you arrive you’ll hop on your bike and begin today's ride – follow the winding coastal road south to the small fishing town of Oued Laou. The shimmering waters of the Mediterranean will be on your left, steep mountains on your right and small coves dotted with beaches in-between. The climb will all be worth it when you stop for lunch at one of the beaches and take the opportunity to go for a swim. Later today, leave the saddle behind and let the support vehicle do the hard work of climbing the steep hills to the ‘Blue City’ of Chefchaouen. Your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Maybe shop for handicrafts in the ancient medina or find a spot at a local cafe and people-watch.

Today is a free day to explore Chefchaouen. Maybe take it easy at a cafe in the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, chill out in a Hamman or stroll around town admiring the architecture of the 15th-century Grand Mosque (the interior closed to non-Muslims). If you’re still feeling energetic, you might prefer to take an optional guided tour of the Blue City or head out of town for a hike in the Rif mountains (which lasts approximately 4 hours).

This morning, drive from Chefchaouen to the outskirts of Bab Taza village. When you arrive, you’ll stretch your legs on a ride along a quiet undulating road and through sparce landscapes to Tabouda. As the roads get busier and the day heats up, retreat to the comfort of the support vehicle and leave the quiet of the Rif Mountains behind you. You’ll then drive to Fes – the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. When you arrive, you have the rest of the day free to rest and recharge.

Leave your bike behind today and embark on a guided walk through the secret shortcuts and twisting alleyways of Fes. Pass donkeys piled high with goods and feel like you’re stepping back in time to the Middle Ages in the labyrinth of the medina. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Consider watching the sunset over the medina tonight and ask your local leader where the best local delicacies can be found.