I took Max, my son out for drive on the Route de Amizmiz this morning and stopped for a brief stroll at Lalla Takerkoust.  It’s about 35km from Marrakesh through beautiful, dry, desolate countryside.  Marrakesh seems to be expanding though as it was good 20km before we stopped seeing development either side of the road.  I should say I, as I don’t think Max was doing much looking, he is only 10 months old.  

Taking the left turn as you go into the small town of Lalla Takerkoust you climb up a hill to where there is a wonderful view of the lake and town. Looking in the other direction you see just rolling hills and dusty plains. Beautiful.  Max in his sling and my tripod slung over my shoulder we had a brief walk around the edge of the lake.  It was really a little late in the day and the best light had gone, but it was still superb.  

After our little wander we had a tagine for lunch (Max shared mine) and a peek in some of the shops.  

In complete contrast to the above pictures below is a vibrant, well organised and densely packed shop.

Got back to Marrakesh by 1:00pm so was a very easy and very lovely morning out.  Highly recommended.