04 May 2017

I had wanted to visit Morocco for over two decades. My anticipation levels were sky high, when peering out from the aircraft window at the stark red landscape and snow-capped Atlas mountains, as we descended into Marrakech's striking modern airport. Only 3 hours from London yet it feels like an exotic and remote part of the world. I was fortunate to be invited to a Moroccan Tourist Board hosted 5 day experience. Early spring meant sunny warm days, in the mid-20s, and pleasantly mild evenings. It included 3 days in the ancient red city of Marrakech, a day in the stunning Atlas mountains and a final night on the coast. Marrakech The modern airport is located only 15 minutes from the centre of the city. My first impression was how wide and clean the streets were. It all felt safe and well organised. We were based in the contemporary and luxurious Movenpick Mansour resort. It is located a short drive from the maze-like labyrinth of souks of the ancient medina. It is a great place to lose yourself in the winding alleys and colourful markets within the historic walled city. Hidden doorways offer small glimpses inside courtyards of numerous charming riads. We ended our walk enjoying a well-earned refreshing mint tea on a rooftop cafe overlooking the famous El Djemaa el-Fna square. After a busy day, our resort offered a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle with its swimming pools and spa. There is no shortage of great places to eat in town. We enjoyed local fare of mixed mezes and succulent roasted lamb in a restaurant called Salama. Belly dancers and traditional music complimented the scene. During the next two days, we inspected a number of beautiful resorts. A 20 minute drive from town is the Beachcomber Royal Palm. Set on spacious grounds, it contains an 18 hole golf course, spa and kids club with stunning views of the Atlas mountains. A fantastic place for both families and couples looking for a base away from the action. On the edge of the medina, the Royal Mansour is a unique luxury hotel where accommodation consists of your own 3 level riad. A great choice for a special treat! Lastly, the famous historic art-deco classic, La Mamounia, is set in beautifully manicured grounds. A real oasis in the heart of Marrakech. We also enjoyed an afternoon creating and eating our own tagine dishes in the well-respected La Maison Arabe cooking school. Well worth doing. Atlas Mountains Less than an hour’s drive away, set 1000 metres above sea level in the Atlas mountains, is the new Moroccan style retreat, L'Amandier. Nestled amidst citrus orchards, overlooking snow-capped peaks and a turquoise lake this boutique resort is a haven of tranquility. I enjoyed a lunch of locally sourced traditionally roasted lamb and vegetables on a terrace with stunning views of the lush Ouirgane valley. There are beautiful walks and cycle paths nearby. I would love to come back and spend more time in this unique resort comprised of less than 20 rooms and pool villas - all with amazing views. Essaouira Located only two hours from Marrakech, Essaouira makes for a great twin centre holiday. On the way to the coast, we stopped to visit a womens’ co-operative that creates world famous Argan oil products containing health benefits. The area is the only place on the planet that produces the Argan tree. Another local quirk that can be seen from the roadside are goats that sit high on the branches of some trees. The port and beaches of Essaouira, famous as a hippy retreat in the 60’s where musicians such as The Rolling Stones and Jimmy Hendrix stayed, exudes a laidback vibe. The wind and waves on this coastal stretch are popular with wind and kite surfers. It has a relaxed feel with mostly low rise buildings. Within the fortified walled medina there are countless riads, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. I stayed at the nearby Atlas resort located on the beach as well as enjoying a seafood lunch at the Sofitel resort. With such a variety of places to stay and things to do, Morocco is a place I won't wait another 20 years to visit!