South for the Desert Adventure

 So the weather is not good but we don't mind! Rain and cool will not dampen the spirits of us at all. We are so happy to be together and set up camp for two nights in Marrakech campsite. The young ones are tired and are happy to take their first day fairly easy, although that does mean a trip to the supermarket followed by a walk around The Djemma El Fna and the Souks!



Outside the the great Katoubia Mosque, it's a great spot for holiday shots, smiling and happy, The Family Beynons are on their way. We've an adventure to create and the sun will be shining as soon as we leave for the Sahara.

The big problem I will have, is when to find the time to write this Blog??? I know, I know, there will be plenty of time when the trip is over but it is nice to have an update as we move, so here I am, it's the 9th of April and my first chance has come!!

So back to Marrakech and we pack up and leave on the 3rd April for the big hoist over the Atlas Mountains. There is snow on the tops which is expected but traffic is moving swiftly and we are soon climbing high onto the Tizi n Tichka pass at over 2200 meters. Its really cold but very exciting. So we stop for a lunch on a windswept plain and enjoy just being here. the van is going so well and pulls up the hairpin bends with ease! Amazing.

Our mascot of this trip, Drommie, is keen to see his relatives in the desert! It's been a long time coming for him. One hump not two, as is the standard for all camels in Morocco. Makes for a very wobbly ride which I for one have done once and will leave it at that! The young ones may do what pleases them as they are .............. young!!

The old hairy one drives south with his usual determination and care. This will be the third or even fourth time we cross the Atlas mountains, as daunting as ever, it will be helped by the new  'older' heart to our Vannie. We need to 'fly' without problems, if possible, as there is no time for shenanigans to interrupt the holiday. Insha'Allah of course.

We cruise on down the south side of the mountains as they turn from green to red and orange. Like Switzerland from the north, descending into the desert on the south. What a contrast.

At Ouarzazate, we pass a film studio where the likes of Lawrence of Arabia to The Gladiator have been made, as well as many other well known films.

On we go as we are destined for the palmerie campsite at Agdz and just like in a film set, the two oldies pose as if in a film of their own! Well we are really I suppose!

One more mountain range to cross and we'll be at our destination. A truly magnificent feast for the senses as we cross these dry and barren mountains. 



and with our Jon leading the way! This is going to be one heck of an adventure.

I'll keep adding on as time allows, so the journey has begun.