7 Unforgettable Day Trips from Nador With Your Rental Car

1. Melilla: A Slice of Spain in Africa

Why Go: Just a 15-minute drive from Nador’s center, you can cross an international border into Melilla, one of Spain’s two autonomous cities on the North African coast. It’s a fascinating blend of Spanish and Moroccan culture. Spend the day exploring the old fortress (Melilla la Vieja), admiring the unique Modernista architecture (second only to Barcelona), and enjoying authentic tapas.

Driving Note: The drive is short, but be prepared for a border crossing. Bring your passport (and visa, if required). Parking is easier to find just outside the city center.

2. Cap des Trois Fourches (Cape Three Forks)

Why Go: This is the drive for anyone who loves scenic coastal roads. This wild, rugged cape juts dramatically into the Mediterranean, offering some of the most breathtaking views in all of Morocco. The road winds past remote villages and hidden beaches like Plage de Tcharrana before culminating at the lighthouse.

Driving Note: The road can be winding and narrow in places, so drive with care. A rental car is essential as there is no public transport. Pack a picnic—restaurants are scarce; this is all about raw, untouched nature.

3. Saïdia: The "Blue Pearl" of Morocco

Why Go: If you’re looking for a world-class beach day, head to Saïdia. Located about an hour’s drive east of Nador, this resort town boasts one of the longest and most beautiful golden-sand beaches in Morocco. The clean, turquoise water is perfect for swimming. The marina is lined with modern cafés and restaurants, offering a polished contrast to the wildness of Cape Three Forks.

Driving Note: The journey is a straightforward and pleasant drive along the coast or via the faster inland highway. A car gives you the flexibility to explore the entire 14 km stretch of beach and find your own quiet spot.

4. Mont Gourougou (Mount Gourougou)

Why Go: For the best possible view of Nador, the Mar Chica lagoon, and the Mediterranean, drive up Mont Gourougou. This imposing, forested mountain is a protected biological site and home to a population of Barbary macaques. There are several viewpoints and old Spanish forts like Fort de Tazouda to explore.

Driving Note: The winding mountain road is a fun drive. Your car allows you to stop at multiple viewpoints at your own pace. Go on a clear day for unforgettable panoramic photos.

5. Al Hoceima: A Jewel of the Rif

Why Go: This is a longer day trip but absolutely worth it for the journey alone. The 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Nador to Al Hoceima takes you along one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world (the N16). The road clings to cliffsides, offering staggering views of turquoise bays and the Rif Mountains. Al Hoceima itself is a beautiful, relaxed port town with the stunning Plage Quemado right in its center.

Driving Note: Start early to make the most of the day. The N16 road is a modern engineering marvel but full of twists and turns. This drive is an experience in itself—take your time and stop often for photos.

6. Kariat Arekmane & the Bou Areg Lagoon

Why Go: For a quieter, more local beach experience, head south of Nador to Kariat Arekmane. This small fishing town sits on the strip of land separating the Mar Chica (Bou Areg) lagoon from the open sea. The ocean-side beach is vast, wild, and often empty, while the lagoon side is calm and famous for its flamingos and birdlife.

Driving Note: An easy 30–40-minute drive from Nador. It’s the perfect off-the-beaten-path trip for a relaxing afternoon, and a car is the only practical way to get there.

7. Tafoughalt & the Zegzel Gorge

Why Go: Ready to trade the coast for the mountains? Head inland (about 1.5 hours) to the Beni-Snassen Mountains. The village of Tafoughalt is the gateway to the beautiful Zegzel Gorge and the “Grotte du Chameau” (Cave of the Camel). It’s a fantastic area for a short hike, fresh mountain air, and a completely different side of Morocco’s landscape.

Driving Note: The drive takes you away from the sea and into green, surprisingly lush hills. Your car gives you the freedom to explore these mountain roads and discover the small villages scattered throughout the region.

Your Adventure Awaits

Nador is the perfect base, but a rental car is the key that unlocks the true diversity of the Oriental region. In a single day, you can be in Spain, on a remote mountain peak, or lounging on a world-class beach. So, pick your destination, fill up the tank, and start your unforgettable Moroccan road trip.