Destination:
Marrakesh
Marrakesh, a former imperial city in western Morocco, is a major economic centre and home to numerous mosques, palaces, and gardens. The medina, a densely packed, walled medieval city dating back to the Berber Empire, features a maze of alleys where thriving souks (marketplaces) sell traditional textiles, pottery, and jewellery. Dominating the city skyline and visible for miles is the Moorish minaret of the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, a iconic symbol of Marrakesh.
The city of Marrakesh is divided into the historic 'Old Town' and the more modern 'New Town', with the old quarter serving as the centre of the thriving tourism industry. Locals refer to this historic district as the 'Medina', an Arabic term commonly used to describe the central areas of many older North African cities.
The Movenpick Marrakech, ideally situated on the picturesque Avenue Mohammed VI near the Medina and just 4km from the international airport, offers an impressive array of amenities. Guests can enjoy three restaurants, three pools - two of which are heated to a comfortable 30°C (86°F) - and the tranquil Spa Ô de Rose with an Om Yoga studio. We were captivated by the energy and exceptional facilities of this remarkable hotel.
Its location allowed us ample time to fully explore the vibrant Medina, browse the bustling open-air markets known as souks, and visit the city's renowned museums without feeling rushed. Visitors can also take the opportunity to relax at a traditional Moroccan hammam bathhouse or enjoy a refreshing mint tea on a local rooftop terrace.
When it comes to attire, Moroccan women typically wear loose, long-sleeved tops, and many cover their heads or wear their hair tied back rather than loose. Makeup is also commonly worn, contrary to some misconceptions. As a visitor, wearing lightweight, covered-up clothing, such as these kaftan tops and these 50+ sun-protective hats, can help you blend in and avoid unwanted attention. It's best to steer clear of revealing clothing like spaghetti straps or tight tops, as well as ostentatious jewellery, not only out of respect for local cultural norms, but also for personal safety.
We would advise staying away from shorts. We would aim for the shortest trousers to be mid-calf or capri length. We loved these flowy trousers as they kept us cool and were perfect for camel-riding and hiking.
Seeking adventure, we decided to leave the bustling city behind and retreat to the serene Atlas Mountains. Kasbah Tamadot, Sir Richard Branson's award-winning property in Morocco, provided the perfect escape. Meaning 'soft breeze' in Berber, this magical hotel sits atop a valley, offering majestic views of Mount Toubkal.
From the moment we arrived, the warm and welcoming staff went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable. A highlight was learning the Berber language - an immersive cultural experience that fostered a deep connection to the local community. The management team also deserves high praise for accommodating our every need, ensuring we were comfortable and content throughout our stay.
Even with ongoing post-earthquake construction, which did not interfere with our experience, the dedication of the staff shone through. We were grateful to witness the property's progress and found the serene, luxurious atmosphere of Kasbah Tamadot truly out of this world.
Breakfast was the highlight of our day, with a delectable spread of local breads, pastries, fresh fruits, and juices, as well as an à la carte menu to choose from. The mint and spiced tea was another memorable experience during our trip. We thoroughly enjoyed the swimming pool, library, and the stunning gardens surrounded by lush fruit trees.
Seeking relief from hot flushes, we indulged in a soothing spa hammam experience at Kasbah Tamadot. The Berber word 'Asounfou' perfectly captured the state of relaxation we felt.
Seeking adventure, we decided to leave the bustling city behind and retreat to the serene Atlas Mountains. Kasbah Tamadot, Sir Richard Branson's award-winning property in Morocco, provided the perfect escape.
Refreshed, we set out to discover the stunning scenery of the Atlas Mountains on one of Kasbah Tamadot's hiking treks. We had our pick of difficulty levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging routes. Along the way, we passed rivers, eucalyptus and olive groves, and climbed through juniper and oak forests, all while taking in striking views of the snow-capped Mount Toubkal. Thankfully, we had packed the right gear - comfortable hiking shoes, water bottles, sun-shielding caps, and a lightweight backpack for our energy snacks.
The best time to visit Marrakech is in the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant but not too hot.
