We farewelled Marrakech this morning and set off in our convoy to the High Atlas en route to Tamedaght, a tiny village just outside Aït Benhaddou, near Ouarzazate.

There were several stops en route at Tizi-n Tichka lookout (2600 metres high) and the argan oil shop run by a women’s cooperative where we all made purchases.

Lunch was at Telouèt and the Pasha Glaoui’s former palace – an eye opener.  Especially intrigued by the rooms for his five wives and 80 concubines.  He was a busy man!

Then a thunderstorm – again – turning the roads into gushing red rivers.  Lots of fun on the windy mountain roads.  Beautiful scenery which I wish I could show you but I’m afraid once again the internet here is (unsurprisingly) not strong enough.  Lovely green valleys among red, brown and olive-coloured mountains were a delight to our artist contingent.

We arrived at our two riads around 4.30pm for today’s art lesson from Ev and a chance to explore the nearby ruins.  Another rain storm interrupted the lesson, which, as Karen remarked, provided a true watercolour experience!

Dinner at Kasbah Ellouze was fabulous with our charming French proprietress, Colette, making sure we had everything we needed with more than a soupçon of French panache.

Only one photo was able to be uploaded.  It’s the view from our room.  Not too shabby!  More pics tomorrow, I hope.