Palmeraie of Marrakesh

The Palmeraie is a vast palm grove on the northern outskirts of Marrakesh, said by tradition to have been planted from date stones during the founding of the city in the eleventh century. Once irrigated by an intricate underground channel system drawing water from the mountains, it spreads over thousands of hectares dotted with tens of thousands of date palms. In modern times parts have been developed with hotels, gardens and golf courses, while camel rides and quad excursions cross the sandy tracks. It recalls the city's oasis origins.