Tarifa to Fés
Independent walking holiday with walks
in Spain & Morocco
“The sights were amazing and the people were warm and delightful. You put together an experience for us that will shape our thinking for years to come.”
In Greek mythology, Hercules slayed the giant Anteus and married his beautiful widow Tingis. In celebration, Hercules pulled Europe and Africa apart using the peaks of Jebel -Tarif (Gibraltar) and Jebel – Musa for handgrips. Ever after, these mountains have been known as the Pillars of Hercules.
The Pillars are a feature of our unique 8 day walking holiday with the walks high above the Mediterranean in both continents plus walks in the Rif mountains of northern Morocco. The adventure starts in Tarifa and ends in the Imperial city of Fés. The overnight stays in Tarifa, Chefchaouen and Fés are full of atmosphere and interest. The hotels and riads in all these locations are great places to stay and experience the fascinating and contrasting cultures of Europe and Africa.
Itinerary & Walks
Arrival day – Tarifa
Your hotel in Tarifa is built within the fortified walls of this old Arabic Spanish town, the most southerly in Europe. It is an ideal location for the start of our adventure across to Africa.
Day 2 – Sierra de Bujeo
Your first walk starts to the east of Tarifa. The route takes a pretty, shady path that follows the Rio de los Mujeres through the cork oaks of Los Alcornocales and up to the ridge of Bujeo. with far reaching views across the Straights to Jebel Musa and, on a fine day, the Rif mountains beyond. The walk along the ridge is easy and the descent to El Bujeo is gentle . Walking time 3 or 5 Hours
Day 3 – Across to Africa
the fast ferry to Tangier takes less than an hour. Everything is so different but modern Tangier has an unexpected affluence. The walk to Cape Spartel starts in the pine forests to the west of the city and close to the King’s summer palace. It is a delightful coastal walk with great views across to Cape Trafalgar, scene of the most famous of all sea battles (1805). Time for lunch at Cape Sparkle and visit to the legendary Cave of Hercules. Transfer by road to Chefchaouen where you stay for three nights. Walking time 3 Hours
Day 4 – Back in Time
After a breakfast of fresh orange, crepes and honey the walk takes you through the east gate of the medina and back into the past. As you pass through countryside you see fully laden donkeys heading into market and Berber ladies tending the pastures, sights that have changed little since medieval times. For lunch you will stop for a traditional meal in a Berber village on the south side of Jebel Tissouka. You can then choose to continue the circular walk back to Chaouen or return by 4×4. Walking time 5 or 3 Hours
Day 5 – A day in ‘Chaouen
Chefchaouen is possibly one of the most photogenic towns of Morocco and hangs like a crescent from the twin horns of Jebel Tisouka (2,050m) and Jebel Megou (1,616m). The medina, a mass of red tiled roofs crisp white and blue washed walls is a precious 15th century relic from the civilision of al -Andalus. Our lovelyl accommodation within the medina is a masterpiece of Moroccan interior design and a great place to stay in this unique, colorful and friendly ‘blue’ town. The souk and bazaars are full of enticing hand made goods and there is a photgraphic ‘gem’ at every turn of the eye. A day to explore, relax and enjoy.
Day 6 – Chaouen to Fes
The journey from Chaouen to Fes by road is just over 4 hours. On route we break to journey for our final rural walk through the wooded southern slopes of the Rif, followed by lunch in a traditional rural house. This is good preparation before our arrival into Fes regarded by many as one of the most traditional cities in Morocco. We stay for our last two nights in a sumptuous riad on the edge of the old medina (Fes el-Bali).
Day 7 – Exploring Fes
The old medina can be initially mind boggling and overwhelming to the unsuspecting visitor. It is home to around 150,00 people and has not significantly changed for a 1,000 years. Once you adjust to the scale and pace of the medina, it reveals it’s charms in most unexpected ways. Our escorted walking tour starts from our hotel, exploring and seeking out the very best parts of this huge walled medieval city. The tour can take from 2 to 4 hours depending on distractions and includes a break for a tranquil and traditional Fassi lunch. Free time to shop and explore the medina close to the to your Riad
Day 8 – Onward transfers to Fes airport for Rynair flight to London Stanstead or onward travel in Morocco or return by train to Tangier and Spain (See notes below).
Accommodation
The first two nights are spent in Tarifa in a small family run hotel built within the fortified walls of the old town. The location close to the harbour is perfect and the rooms are all very comfortable with double/twin beds with en-suite facilities The next three nights are spent in a stunning riad in the centre of the medina in Chefchaouen. All the rooms have great character with double/twin beds and ensuite facilities. The last two nights are spent in Fés in a similar stunning riad within the medina.
Travel & More Information
Flights are not included allowing guests to travel from their most convenient local airport, or meet up in Spain. The holiday starts in Tarifa the most southerly point in Spain. This is accessible by direct bus services from Gibraltar, Malaga, Seville and Cadiz. The holiday ends in Morocco and includes a transfer to Fés airport to co-incide with low cost Ryanair flight to London (Stanstead) or Air Arabia flight to London (Gatwick). All travel costs from Tarifa to Féz are included in the holiday costs. We can also arrange extensions for onward travel to Marrakech or to return to Tarifa via Tangier by high speed train and ferry.
Dates & Prices
We are working on our Spring 2025 program and pices will be published when confirmed. Meanwhile please email us for latest information or to register your interest in a holiday in 2025.
What we include
- 7 nights hotel accomodation in double/twin ensuite rooms*
- Breakfasts
- Welcome meal in Tarifa
- 3 evening meals in Chefchaouen
- Traditional lunch in Berber village
- Traditional lunch in Fes
- Ferry from Tarifa to Tangier
- Dedicated transport between locations
- Transport to trail heads
- Self guided walk from Tarifa
- Three walks in the Rif with local guides
- Guided walking tour of the medina in Fés
- Transfer to Fés airport or station
- Information pack *Spanish Steps
Reviews & Visitors Book
We would both recommend the Two Continents trip to experience a totally different culture than we’re used to in Europe. The Moroccan food was excellent throughout. The accommodation in Chefchaouen, Fes and Marrakech were excellent, way beyond what we expected. The Hotel in Tarifa is in a great location. If we’d known what Tarifa was like we would have booked to stay an extra night at the beginning of the trip. Casa Hassan has got to be the best hotel in Chefchaouen, both Debi and I were amazed with our room. Again another excellent trip organised by Spanish Steps.” Ian and Debi. (Eccles)
“Andrea and I enjoyed your tour program very much. I must do justice to the experience and put in writing as much as I can. The lodging was very special, the sights were amazing and the people were warm and delightful. I feel very privileged to have spent time with you. You put together an experience for us that will shape our thinking for years to come.” Andrea and Wayne (USA)
“We had a wonderful time and your arrangements were superb. Bit hot for walking much of course (August) but not a problem. I’d keep doing the same thing. Our French was useful in Fes which was great. Loved the Hotel Continental by the way in Tangier. Thanks for everything. Nancy and daughter Ana (Australia)
