Marrakesh: A City Guide
I recently returned from a week in Morocco, spending half the time in the charming harbour town of Essaouira and the rest in the bustling city of Marrakesh - famous for its stylish rooftop restaurants and bars. Read on for my recommendations on what to do and where to eat in the Moroccan capital…
TO STAY
Located in the heart of Marrakesh's bustling Medina, El Fenn is a luxurious boutique hotel with an exquisite design and a vibrant atmosphere. It features a collection of beautifully decorated rooms, suites, and private rooftop terraces.
I loved that the hotel is designed to create a sense of home and community with an open-door policy, meaning that the hotel rooms do not have traditional locks on the doors although there is the option to request a padlock on your door if you wish. With breathtaking views of the city, guests and non-hotel visitors can enjoy the rooftop restaurant and its Moroccan cuisine.
The hotel also offers a variety of amenities including swimming pools and a beautiful spa where you can pamper yourself with a traditional Moroccan hammam experience. These luxurious treatments involve a series of steam baths, exfoliation and massages.
Also nestled in the Medina, Riad Goloboy is a charming riad-style hotel that offers a tranquil oasis for guests. The riad showcases traditional Moroccan architecture with intricately designed courtyards, elegant rooms, and a cosy rooftop terrace. Guests can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, personalised service, and indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine prepared by the in-house chef.
Situated on the outskirts of Marrakesh, The Source is a luxurious retreat set amidst stunning natural surroundings. This boutique hotel offers a fusion of contemporary and Moroccan design, featuring spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities.
The Source is known for its beautiful gardens, refreshing swimming pools, and a serene spa offering rejuvenating treatments. Guests can also enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences and explore the nearby Atlas Mountains.
Located in the heart of the Medina, Le Riad Yasmine is a stylish and bohemian-inspired riad hotel. It features a blend of traditional Moroccan architecture with modern elements, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. The riad offers comfortable rooms, a lush courtyard with a swimming pool, and a rooftop terrace providing panoramic views of the city. Guests can relax in the tranquil setting, enjoy delicious Moroccan breakfasts, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Marrakesh.
TO EAT
Located in the heart of Marrakesh's Medina, NOMAD is a popular restaurant known for its contemporary twist on traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant offers a stylish and vibrant atmosphere, with a rooftop terrace providing stunning views of the city. The menu features a fusion of local flavours and international influences, showcasing fresh ingredients and innovative dishes. NOMAD is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to experience modern Moroccan gastronomy.
Tucked away in a serene garden setting, Le Jardin offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Marrakesh. The restaurant's charming courtyard is adorned with colourful tiles, lush greenery, and comfortable seating. The menu focuses on Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine, with an emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savour delicious tagines, refreshing salads, and homemade desserts while enjoying the relaxed ambiance of this hidden gem.
Naranj
Situated in the heart of Marrakesh's old town, Naranj is a delightful restaurant that showcases the flavours of traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant features an elegant interior adorned with intricate Moroccan tiles and lanterns, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Naranj offers an extensive menu of Moroccan specialties, including aromatic tagines, flavourful couscous, and a variety of mezze. With its warm hospitality and authentic dishes, Naranj provides a memorable dining experience.
+61
Bringing a taste of Australia to Marrakesh, +61 is a fashionable and cosmopolitan restaurant located in the Gueliz district. The restaurant's contemporary interior design reflects its fusion concept, combining Australian influences with Moroccan flavours. The menu offers a range of dishes, from gourmet burgers and seafood to healthy salads and vegetarian options. +61 is a great choice for those seeking a modern, more international dining experience in Marrakesh.
Tucked away in a restored riad in the Medina, La Famille is a charming vegetarian restaurant that focuses on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's rustic and cosy atmosphere creates a homely feel, making guests feel like they're dining with family. La Famille serves a set menu that changes daily, featuring an array of flavourful vegetarian dishes inspired by Moroccan and international cuisines. This hidden gem offers a unique and wholesome dining experience in Marrakesh.
TO VISIT
This exquisite country club, akin to a luxurious boutique hotel, offers an alluring blend of Moroccan design and contemporary style. Whether you're a hotel guest or a visitor, the restaurant welcomes all to savour the finest Moroccan cuisine. Beyond the allure of its accommodations and dining, the Beldi Country Club is a sanctuary of rejuvenation. Unwind in the serene swimming pools, perfect for escaping the city's hustle and bustle. Indulge yourself in the tranquil spa, where you can experience the ancient Moroccan tradition of hammam. This luxurious treat entails a series of steam baths, soothing exfoliations, and pampering massages that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised.
Jemaa el-Fna
Jemaa el-Fna, a vibrant square nestled in the heart of Marrakesh's Medina, beckons visitors with its enchanting atmosphere and cultural appeal. A bustling hub of activity, it offers a mesmerising blend of Moroccan traditions and modern experiences. By day, immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents, as local vendors sell their wares and street performers entertain with traditional music and dance.
As the sun sets, Jemaa el-Fna undergoes a magical transformation. The square comes alive with an array of food stalls, offering a delectable selection of Moroccan delicacies. Savour the mouthwatering tagines, couscous, and other local treats while embracing the lively ambiance. It's an authentic taste of Marrakesh's culinary delights and a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Jardin Majorelle is a famous botanical garden located in Marrakesh. It was designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and 1930s. Later, the garden was owned by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé.
The garden is renowned for its vibrant cobalt blue-coloured buildings, which have become an iconic feature of Marrakesh. Inside the garden, you'll find the Berber Museum, which houses a collection of Berber artefacts and displays related to Moroccan culture.
