The city of Marrakech is one of the most alluring travel destinations in the world, sweeping visitors into a whirlwind of sights, sounds, smells and tastes in an assault on the senses like no other. The Moroccan capital is quite simply captivating, and the vibrant colours, mouth-watering cuisine and rich culture have to be seen, tasted and experienced to be believed, so if you’ve yet to visit, then with pandemic-related travel restrictions to the nation now eased, 2022 might just be your year to book those first class flights and make it happen.
Known as the ‘Red City’ owing to the colour of the walls that surround it, Marrakech is a bustling destination that is undoubtedly known for its intensity, but make no mistake – there are still plenty of luxurious experiences to be had here regardless. In fact, it’s home to some of the most opulent hotels in the world, including the awe-inspiring Selman, as well as offering plenty of decadent dining options and relaxing and replenishing hammam experiences that are almost certain to keep you coming back again and again for more.
If you’re contemplating a luxury visit to Marrakech this year, then there are some things you won’t want to miss out on while you’re there – and this line-up offers just the right mix of traditional experiences and opulence.
Stay in a beautiful Moroccan riad
If you’re looking for a unique and luxurious place to base yourself during your time in Marrakech, then booking yourself in at a traditional riad is a must. Unique and beautiful, riads in Marrakech are traditional houses from the region that are built around a central courtyard garden, and today, many have been transformed into high-end accommodation options that offer guests an authentic Moroccan experience. The most spectacular riads feature brightly coloured and intricately patterned tiling, with plenty of verdant foliage and hanging plants, often centred around a swimming pool – and make for stunning photo spots.
Visit the city’s souks
A stroll through Marrakech’s vibrant souks is a must while visiting the city, and will give you a real feel for what it’s all about. Here, you’ll find stalls of spices and fabrics piled high and snake charmers and traders emerging from the shadows to show you their wares – but be sure to pick up the pace when you’re just passing through, as you’re certain to get stopped many times over along the way if you don’t appear to be in a hurry. The bustling atmosphere and the thrill of haggling are all part of the fun of visiting Marrakech, but be sure to keep your wits about you and have a game plan before you head in.
Stroll through the magnificent Jardin Majorelle
Dreamt up by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the breath-taking botanical garden of Jardin Majorelle is an Instagrammer’s dream, with a beautiful blue art deco house at its centre and surrounded with plants and greenery – including numerous types of cacti. Come first thing in the morning or at dusk to enjoy the garden at its finest, and without the crowds – as well as to avoid the oppressive daytime heat.
Detox and refresh at a traditional hammam
If all of that wandering around in the Moroccan sunshine has left you feeling just about ready to drop, then a visit to one of Marrakech’s many hammams is a must. These traditional bath houses remain central to both culture and religion in Morocco, and are said to be associated with health, longevity and fertility, with locals visiting regularly to purify themselves with mud scrubs and massages, making their way through a series of rooms employing dry and damp heat, soaps, salts and showers.
For a truly authentic experience, visit a public hammam – or, if you’re eager to keep things as luxurious and exclusive as possible, then book a private experience in advance.
Sample some Moroccan fine dining
Marrakech certainly isn’t short of delectable dining options, and Moroccan food, with its fusion of bold and intense flavours, is hard not to fall head-over-heels for.
Libzar is one of the city’s finest eateries, and combines tradition with modernity in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting. Expect beautifully presented and mouth-wateringly delicious twists on favourites like tagine and couscous, great service and a memorable experience that you’ll be raving about for weeks afterwards.
Narwama, meanwhile, serves up a unique menu that fuses Moroccan and Japanese flavours in an opulent setting, while La Palette is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner with its twinkling lights, climbing plants and tasty choice of local and Mediterranean inspired dishes.
