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Travel info
Marrakech
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Any trip to Marrakech is to some extent a tale of two cities. While on the one hand it’s raw, dirty and entrenched in tradition, parts are also incredibly chic, luxurious and forward thinking.
1) Place Djemaa El Fna: While not the most beautiful part of the city, this bustling town square is certainly the liveliest. Singers, story tellers and snake charmers all add to the Indiana Jones-style exotic energy of the square, which is also home to excellent food stalls. Take time out from the spectacles and performances that fill the square day and night to sample local delicacies and freshly squeezed orange juice.
2) Ourika Valley: Take a breather from the frenetic activity of the city by heading out into the heart of Berber land. Around 30km from Marrakech, amongst the foothills of the Atlas mountains you’ll find the lush Ourika Valley. This is a great destination thanks to the gorgeous gardens of Timalizene - and it’s also a great place for brushing up on your knowledge of local spices and scents.
3) Saadian Tombs: These imposing tombs date back to the 1500s, though amazingly they were only discovered in the last 100 years. Thanks to their overwhelming beauty and intricate decoration they are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Marrakech. The enclosure consists of two tombs and while the second (on the right) is older, the first is far more impressive, thanks to its fine carvings and vaulted roof, and has been compared to Granada’s Alhambra.
Passion for fashion
For the latest fashions, organic beauty products and designer boutiques, head to the new town area of Guéliz. Meanwhile the souks offer more traditional clothing, from beaded leather shoes to hand-dyed scarves.
Really super markets
The souks are home to permanent markets, which sell all sorts of locally-crafted items including gorgeous thuya-wood trays. For a bit of drama, head to La Criée Berbère where you can watch the rugs being sold at auction.
For some help navigating the labyrinthine souks, book a Walking Tour of the Souks in the Medina with Greenbee. You’ll receive expert advice from our local guide on the best stalls and shops, as well as an authentic glimpse into Morocco’s rich arts and crafts traditions.
Hit the beach
Though Marrakech isn’t on the coast it is only a couple of hours away. If you’re in the city for more than a couple of days the heat may drive you to the beach at Essaouira. This is a really laid-back place to escape to and has an almost European feel to it. Closer to the city itself on Route de L'Ourika you’ll find La Plage Rouge, an enormous swimming-pool surrounded by sand sun-beds and stretching 80 metres across.
Park life
For a break from the hectic pace of the city, pay a visit to the famous Majorelle gardens. This oasis of calm was created by French painter and plant collector Jacques Majorelle in 1924 and then restored by French fashion designer Yves-Saint Laurent in 1980, who also installed the museum of Islamic art there.
Our Guided Tour Beyond the Ramparts includes a horse-drawn carriage ride across the vast Agdal gardens, as well as a stroll along the raised walkways of the orange, fig and lemon orchards. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy the greenery of the 12th-century Menara gardens at the foot of the Atlas Mountains.
Try a tagine
The local specialty is undoubtedly the tagine, which is a type of slow-cooked casserole. Usually this is made with lamb and can be served with couscous. Head to the Medina to try one for yourself. Then why not treat yourself to a traditional tagine dish with its conical shaped lid, which you’ll find in most of the local markets.
More modern
If you tire of local food you can try some international restaurants in Guéliz. Meanwhile the Hivernage tends to be a favourite for the locals who have a bit more money to splash. Alternatively head to Route de L'Ourika to investigate more modern cuisine.
4* Imperial Plaza Hotel
7 nights 4*
Le Tikida Garden
