In the shadow of Toubkal, Morocco's highest peak
11 18 24Words and photographs by Albion co-founder Rupert Hartley
Grateful for some last signs of sunshine and some good company, George, Werka and I made a short trip. From Asni, through the steep and changing valleys towards Toubkal, staying in a guesthouse found on-the-fly at sunset, before returning alongside the other side of the ridge.
From isolated and barren villages, to the tourist centre of Imlil, the base camp of visitors expeditions up the mountain. Very warm in the day, and bitterly cold as soon as the sun dropped low, the chance to test the Zoa Mountain Jacket was too good to miss.
Tough gravel tracks, where the evidence of heavy rainfall and rockfall was laid bare, gave way to smooth tarmac and long twisting roads.
Snow capped peaks. Deserts. Lush green valleys. Tagines and sweet tea. The sounds of shepherds and the rhythmic call to prayer across the valleys. These all made for a memorable and exciting adventure.