Once summer is over, the beaches of M'diq, Martil and Cabo Negro empty out, but the region doesn't go to sleep. Quad biking in the Rif hills, year-round diving, Tetouan's medina, a day in Tangier: here is what to do off-season, with activities you can book online.
1. Quad biking at Lake Asmir, in the Rif hills
About thirty minutes from the coast, the tracks around Lake Asmir and the village of Belouazen run through hills that are much greener than in summer. Rides are led by a guide, with a helmet and protective gear, a safety briefing and a photo stop above the lake.
- 👉 1-hour quad circuit, Lake Asmir: just right for a first ride
- 👉 2-hour quad circuit, Lake Asmir and Belouazen village: to go further into the hinterland
2. Diving all year round in M'diq
The sea cools down, but diving carries on: with the right wetsuit, you can dive all year in Tamuda Bay.
- 👉 Mediterranean discovery dive, for beginners
- 👉 Exploration dive, 1 guided dive, for certified divers
For water temperature month by month and which wetsuit to bring, see winter diving in northern Morocco.
3. Tetouan's medina and the Martil seafront
The medina of Tetouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is very pleasant to visit off-season: whitewashed alleys, craft souks and Andalusian influences. It pairs easily with a walk along the Martil seafront, a few kilometres away and much quieter than in summer.
4. A day in Tangier
About an hour's drive away, Tangier has plenty to fill a day: the medina and Kasbah, Cape Spartel, and quad or Can-Am buggy rides. See our guide to quad and buggy rides in Tangier.
5. Extend your stay
- To the imperial cities: 👉 Tangier → Fes tour, 3 days · 👉 Tangier → Marrakech tour, 5 days
- Where to stay: 👉 Apartment in Cabo Negro · 👉 Northern Morocco Discovery Package (transfer from Tangier, 2 nights in Kabila, yacht outing)
For a longer trip, see also northern Morocco in autumn.
FAQ: M'diq, Martil and Tetouan off-season
What is there to do in Martil when it's not beach season?
Quad biking at Lake Asmir, diving in M'diq, Tetouan's medina just next door, or a day in Tangier.
Can you go quad biking in winter?
Yes, the Lake Asmir circuits are led by a guide. After heavy rain, a ride may be moved if the tracks are too muddy.
What can I do when it rains?
Tetouan's medina and its museums, or diving: underwater, rain makes little difference as long as the sea is calm enough.
Off-season, the region has a different feel: fewer people, greener landscapes and activities for every kind of traveler. See all activities.
