Marrakech
Despite being cosmopolitan, Marrakech has a very Moroccan feel which is highlighted by the evenings at Djemma El Fna Square where acrobats and story tellers gather, best viewed from one of the terraced coffee shops overlooking the square. The city is steeped in rich history and culture which is depicted in the many architectural delights - Marrakech is definitely a true northern African gem waiting to be explored.
Marrakech has a range of famous monuments and sites, the Koutoubia Mosque, El Bahia Palace, the Dar Si Said Folk Art Museum and the 14th-century Ben Youssef Medersa, an ancient university with exquisite Arab architecture to name a few. When visiting Marrakech a trip to the fabulous souqs has to be added to any itinerary, with stalls and shops filled with jewellery, pottery, kaftans, musical instruments, dried fruits, mounds of colourful olives and preserved lemons, workshops of handcrafted wood, leather and iron products, both decorative and practical. Visit a classic Berber pharmacy to learn about the curative practices, herbal medicines and even spices used since ancient times. Continue through the narrow streets, giving a sense of the pace of daily life.
Perfect extension ideas to escape the hustle and bustle of the city are the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Coast, both of which are located within an easy drive of the city.
For further ideas on planning your holiday to Morocco, please call Charlotte, our country specialist on 01285 651 010.