The Legendary Caves of Hercules | All You Need to Know Before You Embark on a Mythical Day Trip from Tangier, Morocco
During the tenth labor of Hercules, which was to retrieve the cattle of Geryon, a fearsome giant, he had to pass through the Atlas Mountains, then thought to be the edge of the known world. Legend has it that instead of scaling the mighty mountain range, Hercules smashed through it with his superhuman strength, creating the Strait of Gibraltar and separating Europe from Africa. The Caves of Hercules are said to be the place where he rested after this heroic act before moving on towards his eleventh labor, i.e., stealing the Apples of the Hesperides.
8 Best Places to Visit in Northern Morocco
Northern Morocco is where Africa meets Europe, where the Mediterranean kisses the Atlantic, and where history, culture, and landscape collide in vibrant harmony. This region is known for its rich cultural tapestry, rooted in centuries of Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and European influence. From Phoenician traders to Roman conquerors, Islamic dynasties to Spanish and French colonial powers, each era has left behind its imprint in the architecture, art, and spirit of the north.
Where Europe Meets Africa | 7000 km Road Trip from the Netherlands to Morocco through Wine Roads, Holy Sites, and Clifftop Towns of France, Spain, and Gibraltar | Itinerary, Tips, and Tricks
There’s something magical about crossing continents by car, witnessing Europe gradually give way to Africa, with every turn of the wheel revealing a new landscape, language, culture, or cuisine. Our epic 7000 km adventure began from the Netherlands and first took us south to the rolling vineyards of Saint-Émilion and Bordeaux in France. From there, we drove deep into Spain, soaking in the sun-kissed charm of Seville before crossing into Morocco to explore the blue alleys of Chefchaouen, the artistic vibes of Asilah, the coastal cityscapes of Tangier and Tétouan, and the tranquil seaside towns of M’diq and Martil. On our journey back, we passed through Gibraltar, where Europe and Africa almost touch, then re-entered France for a spiritual pause in Lourdes and Rocamadour before heading back home to the Netherlands.