Hotels and Riads of Marrakech

At the heart of the city is the Djemaa el Fna - Marrakech’s pulsating main square and one of the world’s great theatres. Thronging with life at any time of day, it is in the evening when it really comes into its own, as tumblers, snake charmers, food and water-sellers plus musicians put on their show for locals and for visiting travellers. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants - escape from the hustle and bustle, relax with a mint tea and watch life unfold.

The city’s other main sights are the Koutoubia Mosque with the most perfect minaret in North Africa, a classic example of Almohad architecture, plus, preserved in the shadow of the Kasbah mosque, the Saadian tombs which are regarded as one of the finest examples of Moroccan-Andalusian decorative art. There is also the Palais el-Badi, at the time of its construction reputed to be one of the most beautiful in the world, and two square miles of Medina where leather workers, carpenters, slipper makers, silversmiths and herbalists, to mention just a few, still ply their trade and which can only be explored properly on foot. Try and find time to go to the beautiful and peaceful, subtropical Majorelle Gardens, owned and beautifully preserved by Yves St Laurent.

The Palmeraie - Marrakech’s oasis - lies north-east of the city and is home to both those Marrakchis who can afford to live in the tranquillity of this palm-tree haven, just a 15 minute drive from the medina, and to some of the most luxurious hotels in Marrakech plus the worldrenowned Amelkis and Palmeraie golf courses.

The foothills of the vast, imposing snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas, where ancient walnut groves, terraced gardens and cascading waterfalls provide welcome refuge from the city’s bustle and heat, are a short drive away.