20 April 2017

I must admit, I had my reservations about Marrakesh, so it came as a complete surprise that I absolutely fell in love with this captivating city. It truly is a destination like no other. The sights, sounds and smells are not for the faint hearted – but for an exciting long weekend with a difference - this is the place to visit! On arrival at the ultra-modern Marrakesh airport we smoothly passed through security and immigration. A 20 minute transfer took us to our hotel, the Movenpick Manour Eddhabi. Located in the centre of Marrakesh, it’s just a few minutes away from the bustling Medina and Souks. Large rooms, great facilities and an amazing breakfast, it’s a good choice. Excellent conference facilities too. After exploring the hotel, our first stop was the Souk. With the help of a local guide, I ventured into the maze of alleyways. For a first time visitor, I would definitely recommend doing this, just to get accustomed to the hustle and bustle of this amazing place and to be assured, that although you may get lost ( and you will…) – you will eventually find your way out! We visited the iconic Jamaa El Fna Square, which was all I imagined it would be and more. Sitting having a drink watching the sun go down overlooking the vibrant, noisy square, was something that will stay with me forever. We were treated to dinner in Le Salama which is just off the main square. Candles led the way up the stairs to a lovely restaurant where we were served endless plates of grilled meats and vegetables while watching belly dancers and local entertainment. A great place to recommend. Day 2 saw us visiting the Royal Palm Hotel & Golf Resort. Just 15minutes outside the city, it's a haven of luxury for couples and families alike. Having an 18 hole golf course, spa, kids club and enormous pool – it caters for everyone, with stunning views over the Atlas Mountains. It’s a truly beautiful property, part of the Beachcomber group. Our next stop was the luxurious Royal Mansour where all accommodation is in individual Riads. Fantastic for families or couples to share and all very private. Each traditionally and elegantly decorated with the added luxury of your own rooftop terrace and plunge pool too. We had an amazing lunch here in one of their private dining rooms. This afternoon saw us attend a cooking class, which can be booked as an add-on to any of your Moroccan trips. We made a chicken and apricot tagine in an hour and then enjoyed it poolside with more of their amazing Moroccan bread. A great way to spend an afternoon and a definite highlight of our trip. Dinner this evening was at the beautiful Club Restaurant Le Palace. Great atmosphere with live music and amazing French food. Day 3 we headed inland on windy mountain roads to the foothills of the Atlas mountains to visit: L’Armandier. A brand new small boutique hotel and collection of luxury villas that all enjoy breathtaking views over the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. A total chill out place with the promise of great food, all locally sourced. Dinner this evening was at Jad Mahal, a very popular place with both tourists and locals for dinner, entertainment and live music. Our 4th day saw us leaving Marrakech for the lovely coastal resort of Essaouira which was a 3 hour drive. Enroute we visited an Argan Oil co-operative and saw the “tree- climbing goats” who literally do climb the trees to graze on the argan fruit. Got to be seen to be believed! We stayed at the Atlas Hotel & Spa which overlooks the wide expanse of beach where you can enjoy kite surfing, wind surfing or horse riding. Essaouira has a much more relaxed pace and this is also reflected in their souk where most prices are fixed and you can wander round the wide streets unapproached by stallholders. We visited the Sofitel Mogador which is a beautiful arty hotel 10 minutes out of town with private villas with pools in its grounds and boasts two 18 hole golf courses. They also run a courtesy bus into Essaouira for guests. The Atlas Hotel’s own beach bar is the perfect place to watch the sun go down and was a great way to start our last evening with a live DJ. Dinner was enjoyed at the stunning L’Heure Bleue, part of the Relais & Chateau group and then back to the hotel to prepare for our early departure. Morocco really surprised me. It really has something for everyone and every budget. Definitely a place for unique experiences. I had a truly memorable trip and cannot wait to return. If you'd like to know more about visiting Morocco, please get in touch!