48h. in Marrakech
Bewitching, photogenic and chaotic, the red city is our nearest destination for exotic journeys and perfect for a weekend break. This year it is the African Cultural Capital 2020, so we should keep an eye on the cultural programme and the special events, many of them linked to artists from the African continent.
An exotic welcome
Warm, sweet-scented air hits travellers as they get off the plane, welcoming them to Africa. The best way to start soaking up the atmosphere of Marrakesh is to go its nerve centre, Jamaa el Fna. The famous square, to which you will return time and again during your stay in the city, is full of snake charmers, fortune tellers and acrobats. At nightfall, you can hear the drums of the street musicians, and many open air restaurants are set up in the square. Tajines, couscous and all kinds of spicy soups, brochettes and some delicious fruit juices are the best option for your first dinner in the city.
Charming accommodations
When choosing accommodation, there are options for every kind of traveller. One choice is one of the cosy, charming ‘riads’ in the Medina, the city surrounded by adobe walls; or you can opt for one of the much larger, international luxury resorts, located outside the walls. Three perfect choices are the Riad Enija, the old residence of King Kaid, in the heart of the Medina; the Palais Namaskar, with views of the Atlas mountains, a 5-star luxury complex belonging to PY Hotels & Resorts, with little palaces and private swimming pools; or the Raddison Blue Carré Eden, on the important shopping street, Mohamed V.
A morning of culture and souks
After breakfasting on Moroccan pancakes with jam or honey and a cup of tea, we can start our Saturday morning with a tour around the most interesting monuments in the old town. Amongst these is the Ben Youssef Madrasa, with 130 cells housing up to 900 students and the Bahía Palace, the harem for the 28 wives and concubines of Abu Bou Ahmed, a black slave who became a vizier. The 16th century Saadian Tombs, decorated with mosaics are also worth a visit. To the north of the square the souks are located, devoted to ointments, musical instruments, jewellery or carpets: You have to be ready to haggle.
A gastronomic feast
Hand-painted ceilings, lavish decoration, live lute and guitar music and an authentic gastronomic experience await travellers in the historic ‘La Maison Arabe.’ With a combination of French, Moroccan and Asian dishes, the restaurant also offers cooking workshops.
An afternoon at the Turkish baths
Why not spend your afternoon enjoying a Turkish bath? There are reasonably priced, tourist baths, such as the Hammam Ziani or luxury baths, such as Hammam SPA Mille & Une Nuits. To end the day, lamb roasted with couscous and amazing views in the restaurant and sky bar, Le Salama.
Amongst palm trees and design
The third day you can change the bustling Medina for the other attractions of the city in calmer surroundings. For example, you can start the day by travelling around the Palmeral with its over 100,000 palm trees, either by quad or camel, or wandering around the Menara Gardens, surrounded by thousands of olive trees. To end your break, you must visit the Majorelle Gardens, where Yves Saint Laurent, the adopted son of Marrakesh, once lived. The famous fashion designer now also has a museum devoted to his creations with 4,000m2 housing some of his most spectacular designs.
