I was pumped up and left Agouim after a decent breakfast at 10am. At 100 Dirham per night I allowed for two yoghurts, two egg omelette, some bread and a pot of hot mint tea. It was chilly but the initial climb up to Tizi N’Tichka Pass helped to kept me warm. The sun was out and did the rest. A pleasant ride, except some falling winds from the mountains with gusts trying to get me off the bike occasionally and, much worse, a bunch of aggressiv wild dogs chasing me determined to have some fresh German meat. That was a tight game. Bastards!

Before rolling down, I had an excellent & extended coffee break and a good chat with some local shop operators. I learned more about their country and culture. As the talk was so enlightening and went on and on, I took a second coffee (besides a Snickers chocolate bar) and we kept talking. Holiday season is over, they had plenty of time. They spoke a bit German besides English and French. Another great example, very nice people here. No pressure to buy any of their gifts under offer. Two times within a week: highest pass over the Atlas Mountains by 🚴‍♂️.

Happy jockey hiding from the wind.
Strolling down from the top of the pass took ages. The scenery is impressive, no doubt. I had to stop again and again, a clear advantage of travelling by bike. My plan for the day was to stop for a final night in the mountains.
 
A small village called Taddert, situated on 1600m altitude, offers a basic accommodation within an ordinary Moroccan life environment and low impact of tourism. The room comes without heating but warm water in the shared bathroom. I enjoy this kind of local absorption including some hardship for me here and there, which is nothing compared to locals‘ daily life.
Welcome Moroccan mint tea served in style!
I will remember this pass for long. Tomorrow is downhill-day under the sun!
 
Fair winds…