Driouch: The Town Between The Rif Mountains of Morocco and the Sea 

Introduction to Driouch Town

Driouch, a charming town in northeastern Morocco, serves as the capital of Driouch Province in the Oriental administrative region of Morocco.

Its position in the Rif mountains and its nearness to the Mediterranean Sea influences its climate and lifestyle, offering a snapshot of life in the Rif mountains and the broader Oriental region.

With a small population, Driouch stands out for its blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s significantly smaller than major cities, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for its vibrant culture and close-knit community.

Driouch Discovery Tour

A quick overview discovery tour and exploration of Driouch Province, on its captivating tourist attractions. Let’s delve into this guide to the city’s must-visit spots:

1. Park Albam

A beautifully landscaped park offering a serene environment, ideal for picnics and leisure activities. It’s a great spot for families and nature lovers to unwind.

2. Moh Kadour Marghich

A site that offers a unique insight into the local culture and history of the area.

3. Midar Garden

This garden is known for its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance, perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day out in nature.

4. Stade Municipal Ain El Aouda

A municipal stadium that hosts various local sporting events, reflecting the vibrant sports culture of the region.

5. Stade Municipal de Dar El Kebdani

Another significant sports venue in the province, adds to the community’s sports facilities.

6. Abdouna Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying coastal scenery.

7. Hot Spring “Hamam Chaabi”

These natural thermal springs are not only a relaxation spot but also hold cultural significance in the region.

8. TaQsaft

An attraction that provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and customs.

9. Sidi Hsain Beach

Another beautiful beach in the province is known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities.

10. Tizra (Rocks)

A natural geological site offering unique rock formations and a glimpse into the natural history of the area.

Driouch Accessibility And Transportation

Exploring Driouch in Morocco is an adventure made easy thanks to a variety of accessible transportation options:

1. Air Travel

Fly into the region via Nador International Airport. Direct flights from cities like Tangier take around 1h 33m, with prices ranging from 700 MAD to 4,446 MAD.

2. Bus and Taxi

The most budget-friendly way to reach Driouch is by bus and taxi. Expect a journey of about 10 hours from major cities like Casablanca, with costs between 530 MAD and 733 MAD.

3. Grand Taxis

For inter-city travel, opt for the grand taxis from fixed stations. Short rides start around 15 MAD.

4. Petit Taxis

Within cities, these are ideal for short trips, with fares typically between 5 and 15 MAD.

5. Buses

Companies like CTM and Supratours are great for longer distances. A bus ticket from Marrakech to Merzouga, for example, costs around 220 MAD.

6. Train Travel

The train network covers northern Morocco. Expect reliable service and affordable prices, like a 49 MAD ticket from Casablanca to Marrakech.

7. Car Rentals

For flexibility, car rentals start from 250 MAD per day. They’re easily available, especially in major cities and airports.

(Keep in mind that the prices can vary due to different circumstances).

Modern Driouch and its Economic Significance

Agriculture’s New Era

In November 2023, Morocco’s Agriculture Minister, Mohammed Sadiki, launched a bold initiative in Driouch. This move is part of the Generation Green 2020-2030 strategy, reshaping Morocco’s agricultural landscape. Driouch is now at the forefront of this transformative wave.

Connecting Communities

A key project is the 3.5 km rural road in Oulad Mohand. It’s a segment of a larger plan to construct 57 km of roads, costing 58.14 million dirhams. These roads are more than just paths; they’re lifelines that connect Driouch’s communities, fostering trade and mobility.

Farming Innovations

Next, there’s the PADERMO project in Douar Lahbara. With a hefty 280 million dirhams, it’s set to revolutionize farming in the region. 

Imagine 100 hectares of new carob trees, with plans for more carob and olive plantations. It’s not just about trees; it includes sophisticated irrigation and road upgrades, benefiting over 40,000 farmers.

Water Efficiency in Nador

In the neighboring Nador province, a 1.25 billion dirham project is underway. This game-changer will switch 13,500 hectares of farmland to advanced irrigation systems. 

It’s a win-win: better water management and boosted crop yields. This project alone could create over 300,000 workdays.

Driouch History Overview

Driouch History is pretty new, it was established as a provincial capital after the division of the Nador Province in 2009, Driouch has grown into an important administrative and cultural center in northeastern Morocco. This evolution reflects the town’s growing significance in the region.

Conclusion

Driouch, a region rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, stands as a testament to the vibrant diversity of Morocco. From its breathtaking landscapes to the warmth of its people, it offers a unique glimpse into the life of the Ref Mountains. Its commitment to preserving traditions, while embracing modernity, makes it a noteworthy destination for those seeking an authentic Moroccan Rif experience.

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