One of the most scenic regions in all of Morocco, a land of majestic, sometimes snowcapped, mountains; verdant valleys, terraced fields; and remote berber villages. The drive is over one of the region’s dramatic pass : Tichka pass (7616 feets ).

The Kasbah of Telouet arguably boasts some of the best Islamic architecture in Morocco with an interior so intricately designed and a history so gripping; views over beautiful mountains green and peaceful Berber villages. The legendary Pacha Glaoui commissioned 300 best craftsmen who worked for 3 years to decorate the ceilings and walls : amazing mosaics, beautiful carvings, stucco, zellij, cedar wood …

It was originally the main thoroughfare for the trans-saharan trade route between Marrakech and Sub-Saharan Africa. Today, evidence of this once highly important role is reflected in the numerous crumbling kasbahs and ksars , which are dotted all throughout the valley. The Ounila river brings life to the otherwise arid and dry land, forming a green, meandering river of lush plantations wherever the water flows. The Ounila valley is a remarkable display of Southern Moroccan architecture , with tiny adobe villages and mosques stacked up into the valley walls while Kasbahs and ksars slowly erode back into the red tinted earth alongside them

The Word “ksar” refers to a large group of Kasbahs ( castles ) that are built close together and which are located behind the fortified walls of a city. Ait Ben Haddou is an earthen city that is constructed from clay bricks and has thick defensive walls protecting the interior. Listed as a UNESCO World heritage from 1987, this site has a very strong bond with Holywood. David Lean chose Ait Ben Haddou as the perfect location for his movie ”Lawrence of Arabia” in 1962. Other famous movies that have been filmed there include “Jewels of the Nile”, “The living daylights”, “kundun”, “the Mummy” , “Gladiator”, Alexander” and famous T.V serials like “Game of Thrones” or “Isabel” … The site is not only astonished at the historical beauty ( more than 1000 years old ), but many visitors find themselves in awe of the fact that they can walk the same streets as some of their favorite movie stars.

The gorgeous city is considered one of the best destinations for tourists. Called the door of the desert, Capital of Kasbahs, Holywood of Morocco, it’s a transit point between Marrakech and the Sahara.