Is Taroudant the authentic alternative to Marrakesh when visiting Morocco? Image a mystical land of towering mountains, fragrant bustling souks, cool riads, steaming tagines, exotic oases, russet sand dunes, nomadic herdsmen and traditions stretching back thousands of years.

Marrakech conjures impressions of a terracotta-hued Medina, winding alleys, hectic souks and rooftop bars looking to the High Atlas Mountains.