The transition from the vibrant, bustling streets of Marrakech to the rugged isolation of the Atlas Mountains is an experience that stays with you

Our journey began with a daunting drive, a true test of nerves in an era before GPS

Navigating unpaved roads in total darkness without a single street light or road sign felt like a leap of faith

In Morocco, seeking directions can be a delicate art; there is a known local ruse where travelers are flagged down under false pretenses, making every roadside encounter a high-stakes decision

Despite the tension, we eventually found our way to the mountain resort, driven by one primary goal: horse riding

The "Dobbin" Philosophy

I am by no means an expert equestrian

In fact, I have a long-standing tradition with the horses I ride

Whether I’m in South America, Europe, or Africa, my horse is invariably named "Dobbin." 

To me, a Dobbin is a horse that lacks the ambition to misbehave, or, quite frankly, the ambition to move at all

This perceived laziness is exactly what makes them "safe" for a casual rider like myself

Trusting the Hooves

As we ascended the steep, rocky terrain of the Atlas range, my anxiety must have been written across my face

Our guide, sensing my unease, offered a reassuring reminder: these horses were born for this landscape

Their hooves are naturally adapted to grip the uneven stone, far more capable than any human or vehicle

However, even a "Dobbin" has its quirks

Any rider knows that you must maintain a level of authority; if a horse senses a lack of leadership, it may test its boundaries

My particular mount had a persistent habit of dropping its head and attempting to roll in the sand, a classic equine maneuver designed to unseat a rider

Throughout the trek, I kept a firm grip and a watchful eye, balancing the guide’s advice to trust the horse with the reality that I still needed to be the boss

Conclusion

Ultimately, horse riding in the Atlas Mountains is a lesson in letting go and taking control all at once

From the nerve-wracking midnight drive to the rhythmic clatter of hooves on ancient stone, it is an adventure that demands respect for the terrain and a steady hand on the reins

Even if your horse is a "Dobbin," the majesty of the mountains ensures the experience is anything but ordinary