On The Road to The Atlas Mountains (and ultimately Marrakech)
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Destination - Marrakech, by way of the Atlas Mountains. We left Fes early, since this would be a more than 300 mile, 6 hour+ drive and we wanted to get to Marrakech in time for Shabbat services at Beth-El Synagogue.
The drive, albeit long, was incredibly scenic. The Atlas Mountains stretch across Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia over 1,600 miles. The highest point is 13,671 ft. The area is rich in volcanic soil, creating fertile ground for all kinds of fruit trees and vineyards.
We drove through the mountains to the town of Ifrane, about 5,000 ft. elevation, and yes, it was quite chilly! Because of the Swiss Chalet style architecture, the town is nick-named the Moroccan Switzerland. It is a vacation destination for locals; some own second homes here.
I was happy to take a few pictures and get back on the warm bus!
During the remainder of the drive we were treated to more lovely scenery and an in-bus screening of - you guessed it - “Casablanca” (insert your favorite movie line here!)
We didn’t have enough time to stop at the hotel, so we went straight to Shabbat services. Pictures are not allowed inside. It is an Orthodox synagogue, which means the men and women sit in separate areas. Everything was in Hebrew, and the melodies are different than what we are used to at our reform congregation. Still, it was meaningful to be a part of this community and to share our connection of Judaism.
After services we walked to Lotus Privilege Restaurant. The walk down the narrow streets was adventurous, but the restaurant was unbelievable!
The Moroccan decor, the colors, the mosaics - there were plants and fountains - and the food was incredibly delicious !
I don’t think we could have packed more into this day if we tried! Tomorrow, a full day in Marrakech.