Marrakesh

A brightly coloured spectacle

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.

The labyrinthine souks are equally compelling. Each souk specialises in a certain product or trade, be it slippers, sheepskins or spices, or carpenters, apothecaries or coppersmiths. Covered by awnings which let just very thin shafts of light penetrate and somehow emphasise the sounds, colours, smells and flavours, these are places that bombard all your senses.

We include an information pack (delivered to you personally by our agent), as well as a half-day orientation tour around the souks and medina (walled old town) by a local guide. The information pack will include details of other tours and excursions that you can take (pay locally).

Accommodation

Perhaps the most charming places to stay in this intriguing city are riads. Taking their name from the shaded, fragrant courtyard that the bedrooms all open onto, riads are intimate, typically Moroccan hotels usually located in historic districts. All have a roof terrace and individually styled (and sized) bedrooms, giving you various upgrade options. Breakfast is included and most will also provide dinner on request (pay locally).

Riad Daria High ceilings, ornate decoration and light colours create a feeling of space and elegance. There are just seven spacious rooms and suites, plus a terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains and two courtyards, one of which has a small splash pool. Located in the medina close to the Royal Palace, this is a great base for exploring, and is the riad on which our prices are based.

Dar les Cigognes Converted from a wealthy merchant’s house near the gates to the Royal Palace, this is an elegant haven of tranquillity with a hammam (steam bath), jacuzzi, roof terrace, library, lounge and two courtyards with fruit and palm trees. The 11 bedrooms and suites are individually decorated with exquisite attention to detail, and most have a fireplace and air conditioning.

Riad Samsara An intimate riad with just three double rooms and a very Moroccan feel - the lounges and seating areas are decorated with intricate woodwork and zellij (intricate mosaic designs adorning the walls and floors). The emphasis here is very much on personal service.

Riad Noga A delightful mix of traditional Morocco and eclectic Europe, this makes for a really cosy and relaxing environment where you can sit in the peaceful shaded courtyards, enjoy the pool or unwind on the stylish roof terrace.

Dar Anika This beautifully furnished and centrally located riad is owned by a British couple and has a stylish, modern feel. There is a Moroccan lounge, heated pool and even an Arabian tent for dining.

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