Morocco has an 'immediate and enduring fascination'

Morocco holidays hold an "enduring fascination" for Western travellers, because the country - despite being geographically very near to Europe - seems distant from the continent.

That is because of its past, which is "deeply traditional" and Islamic, is like nothing else on the continent, according to a writer for Rough Guides' website.

In an article introducing the North African country, the writer explains the reasons for the enduring popularity of the country.

"For Westerners, Morocco holds an immediate and enduring fascination. Though just an hour's ride on the ferry from Spain, it seems at once very far from Europe, with a culture – Islamic and deeply traditional – that is almost wholly unfamiliar," she said.

"Throughout the country, despite the years of French and Spanish colonial rule and the presence of modern and cosmopolitan cities … a more distant past constantly makes its presence felt."

Morocco holidays offer a wide range of activities for travellers, including the medieval Islamic city of Fes.