Almost anything thrives in Ourika’s rich soil, including saffron (Crocus sativus), organically grown here from bulbs that are cultivated near Talouine. Saffron is a high-maintenance plant, with flowers harvested before dawn for maximum potency. You can watch the harvest take place during the first three weeks of November, although you'll need to get here between 4am and 5am. At other times of the year, guided tours are given by staff who reiterate key points on explanatory placards.
Tours end with a complimentary mint tea and a soft-sell of Safranerie saffron (Dh13 per gram) and estate-grown herbal tisanes (Dh20 to Dh40).
