Songs of Rock and Wind

‘Travelling means different things to different people. Its intangible allure has always been difficult to define. Is it a necessity? A lifestyle? Is it life itself? For me, traveling has always been about learning; inspired by Marcel Proust’s seminal words: “The true voyage of discovery is not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”’ – Franz Walter

Franz Walter told his story of travelling to Morocco with Ines Papert on two climbing expeditions in the High Atlas Mountains in Sidetracked Volume Three. The expeditions were fraught with problems, ill health and some unfavourable weather conditions. But despite this Franz recollects some perfect moments within this breathtaking environment.

We’re honoured to share this extended photo selection and video from their journeys.

I remember our first breathtaking hike along these walls. Exposed, ancient trails lead deeper and deeper into the gorges, navigating the rushing water using only Berber ladders made of rocks and sticks that cling precariously to the rock face. Many renowned climbers have opened alpine multi-pitch routes here over the years. The climbs are aesthetically beautiful, challenging routes on perfect rock. Often there are strong winds which blow south from the Sahara desert, pummelling climbers with unrelenting ferocity.

Reflecting on my personal need for traveling, it can be distilled into a need for understanding and our journey and learning here is still to be completed. A Moroccan saying comes into my mind: ‘Nothing is certain,’ they will tell you in Marrakech, ‘but everything is possible.’