Taroudant - or Taroudannt - is often described as a mini-Marrakech because of its bustling and historic medina, souqs and beautiful red-mud buildings. And it does share the capital's vibrancy. But describing only this city's trading centre misses out the beauty of the location, on the plains of the fertile Souss Valley, behind which the Atlas Mountains rise. It can be a wonderful place to escape to, and some of the best places to stay in Taroudant really reflect the area's beauty, as well as that of the city.
While Marrakech's medina can quickly overwhelm the unseasoned, Taroudant's is a much friendlier affair, somewhere you can stroll through.
The city's old 16th and 17th Century gates, along with the red-mud walls surrounding the old town - which change colour depending on the time of day - are one of the great sights of Taroudant. A large colony of white storks live by the gates. The place is also rife with pigeons which provided a great source of food during times of siege.
Taroudant is also an ideal base for trekkers and hikers heading up into the High Atlas, and it's quite close to Agadir on the coast. You can also get better value for your Moroccan handicrafts here than in Marrakech or Essaouira.
What not to miss:
- Admire the city's old 16th and 17th Century gates and red-mud walls.
- Get out of the city and into the Atlas mountains on hiking excursions.
- Explore the atmospheric souks and find leather products, textiles and spices.
- Stop by the Palais Claudio Bravo Camus and learn the fascinating history of the region.
The best places to stay in Taroudant need not be crammed into the centre of town. Indeed several of our recommendations are on the outskirts, where you can really appreciate the beauty of the area.