The ancient city of Marrakech nestled in western Morocco on the edge of the Sahara Desert is steeped in history and bursting at the seams with vibrant souks, exotic hammams and great food.
Its North African location means you are guaranteed good weather anytime you decide to visit, it’s the perfect blend of “old city” with a contemporary feel.
Here is the Temple Muse guide to the Red City.
WHERE TO STAY
La Mamounia
Set in 20 acres of gardens this extraordinary five-star palace hotel offers luxurious comfort, plush décor, a divine spa and some of the best dining options in Marrakesh.
This award-winning hotel is an oasis of calm and beauty amidst the bustling city and has fully earned its stellar reputation.
Credit: La Mamounia
Credit: La Mamounia
Credit: La Mamounia
Credit: La Mamounia
WHERE TO EAT
Le Grande Café De La Poste
Originally built in the 1920’s this beautifully authentic Moorish building is a proudly revived part of Marrakech’s heritage. The interior is a seamless balance of East meets retro West, boasting a huge statement staircase and art deco motifs. The menu is authentically French, the emphasis on using the freshest ingredients possible with some of the vegetables grown in the garden by chef Philippe Duranton himself.
Credit: Pascal Montary
Credit: Pascal Montary
WHERE TO GO
The Souks of Marrakech
Famed throughout the world the souks in Marrakech are the largest in Morocco. These exotic markets are the place to find the perfect memento of your trip. Stroll through the shadowy alley ways and barter your way to owning gorgeous multicoloured carpets, silk kaftan, spices, antiques, lanterns, pottery and exotic jewellery.
Credit: @moroccostate
Credit: @moroccostate
BREAK TIME
Le Riad Yasmine
Marrakech is saturated with many suitable options for tea and a snack from private hotels, tea shops and cafés. The trick is to find somewhere packed with enough charm and ambience to make the experience memorable.
This charming boutique hotel is a haven of beauty and tranquillity and the perfect spot to take a time out from the bustling Medina streets.
The lunch service is from 12-2 pm daily. Please book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Credit: Daisy Gosen
Credit: Daisy Gosen
WHAT TO SEE
Jardin Marjorelle
Forty years of passion and dedication by French painter Jacques Marjorelle created this garden in the heart of the“Ochre City”. Later restored in the 1980’s by designers Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé this attraction is a mixture of Moroccan garden with European spirit. Bamboo thickets sit alongside magnificent cacti and palms, all the vibrant greens contrasting beautiful with the famous Marjorelle blue. The garden is tasteful, elegant and sophisticated, a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
TREAT YOURSELF
Farnatchi Spa
After a busy day of sightseeing, pampering yourself with an evening spa treatment is the perfect way to finish your day.
Located in the heart of Medina the Farnatchi spa offers a range of treatments including facials, manicures and massages. When in Morocco one must try the Hammam.
A luxurious ancient bathing ritual that involves steam, a rigorous scrub with black soap and essential oil, a massage and skin treatments. You will leave with beautifully soft skin and your mind and body relaxed.
Credit: @farnatchi_spa
Credit: @farnatchi_spa
Credit: @farnatchi_spa
Credit: @farnatchi_spa
JOURNAL
