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Marrakesh & Beyond
Chaotic and vibrant, noisy and brightly coloured, the ancient, imperial city of Marrakesh is exciting and endlessly intriguing, the hectic bustle of daily life providing an enthralling spectacle. Surrounded by ochre-coloured ramparts, it is set against the spectacular backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains. A visit is just as much about soaking up the atmosphere, the smells and the sounds, and contrasting the bustle of the souks (markets) with the stillness of the gardens and courtyards, as it is about seeing sights such as the Koutoubia, a splendid mosque which set the style for many others. The real focal point is Djemaa El Fna. This large, open square forms the heart of the city, and provides a stage each evening for dozens of acrobats, musicians, dancers and storytellers. Nothing compares to it, so let yourself get caught up in the noise and excitement. Nights: 4
Starting point: Marrakesh, where you stay in one of several riads depending on availability. Taking their name from the shaded, fragrant courtyard that the bedrooms all open onto, riads are intimate, typically Moroccan hotels usually located in Marrakesh's medina (Old Town). All have a roof terrace and individually styled (and sized) bedrooms, giving you various upgrade options. Breakfast only is included, though most will also provide dinner on request (pay locally). If you prefer, you can take your pick of the eateries in the city, which range from street vendors selling local specialities to top-class restaurants. Hotel staff will be happy to make recommendations. Day 1: take your time to experience the unique atmosphere of Marrakesh. To help you get your bearings, we include a half-day orientation tour which introduces you to the souks (markets) and finishes at Djemaa El Fna, where dozens of acrobats, musicians, dancers and storytellers gather to amuse the crowds. Accommodation: one of our riads, as above.
Day 2: enjoy a guided walk in the Ourika Valley, one of the longest and most beautiful in the country, with lush vegetation, palm groves and Berber hamlets in which you may well see Berber women weaving intricately patterned rugs. After a transfer to the valley, you set off through olive groves to an ochre-coloured village, then continue along a winding hillside path via another hamlet, the peak of Adrar n'Bou Tazete (3,050 metres) providing a dramatic backdrop. You pause for your picnic on the banks of a river, before walking between ancient walnut groves and through a narrow, green valley to the Setti Fadma Cascades, where you may be lucky enough to see a Barbary Ape. You return to Marrakesh by taxi. (4.5hrs walking, plus 1.5hr transfer each way) Accommodation: one of our riads, as above. Day 3: enjoy a final day in Marrakesh. Take in Marrakesh’s myriad attractions, before watching the sun set over the square once more from one of its café terraces, perhaps sipping a mint tea before taking your pick from the vast array of food stalls set out below. Accommodation: one of our riads, as above.
Prices & travel 2009:
*Price includes: 4 nights' bed & breakfast, plus 1 picnic; guided tour & walk; return transfer from Marrakesh airport (out/home 0h15) > Any queries? Let us call you back 
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