MOROCCO is a fascinating mix of old and new, of soft earthy shades and vibrant colour, of the bustle and hum associated with the market place and the peaceful tranquillity of gardens alive with bird-song and the sweet aroma of luxuriant planting. The Moroccan people are also an intriguing combination of Berber and Arab origins and we found that whether in the city, the countryside or the coast, we were able to wander amongst them hassle-free, feeling comfortable and relaxed at all times. The food throughout our visit, both in the hotels and in restaurants was fresh produce, delicately and imaginatively prepared and presented. Most importantly, in good Berber and Arab tradition, we were warmly welcomed everywhere and made to feel like honoured guests.
The IMPERIAL CITY of MARRAKECH has been the stronghold of powerful dynasties and is now the capital of the south. It is known as the ‘rose’ city because of the ochre city walls, which become even more pink as the sun is setting and also because of the roses, which grow in profusion all year in the many gardens and parks. Whilst in Marrakech you will stay at the Tichka Salam Hotel***, built in Moroccan style so that privacy and abundant planting are important features.
We have included visits to see the 12th Century Koutoubia Minaret; the Palais de la Bahia, a perfect example of Muslim architecture; the intricate carvings of the Saadian Tombs; the medina and souks so full of life with spellbinding sights and smells; the Menara and the Majorelle Gardens. The famous square, Djemaa el-Fna, which abounds with story-tellers, musicians, snake charmers, acrobats, food and drink stalls and teeth pullers, is without doubt an interesting experience.
Leaving Marrakech, your route to OUARZAZATE in the sub-Sahara takes you over the HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS and the 2,260 metres high TIZI N’TICHKA Pass with far reaching views. You will see Berber villagers going about their daily life, making a living out of agriculture wherever water is found in valleys full of apricot, olive and tamarisk trees. It is a splendid journey and the scenery of Ouarzazate itself has attracted many film directors – scenes from both ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘Gladiator’ were filmed here.
Your hotel in Ouarzazate for 2 nights is the Berbere Palace****, which is designed like a Berber village and has very good facilities. The kasbah is a feature of the landscape here and we have included visits to the kasbahs of Ait Ben Haddou, Taourirt and Tifoultoute.
From Ouarzazate you cross the TIZI N’BACHKOUN PASS to TAZNAKHT and enter the fertile and verdant Souss Valley, the ‘garden of Morocco’. Arriving in the lovely walled town of TAROUDANT, you will stay for 3 nights at the Hotel Palais Salam***, which lies within the walls of the kasbah and has gorgeous gardens filled with lush planting and fragrance. Visits within the town are included as well as a morning in the Berber village of TIOUTE. Here you can walk in the cool palm grove and meet the group of women who work together producing argan oil from the unique argan tree that only grows in this part of the world.
From Taroudant it is just one hours drive to the Atlantic Ocean where your route takes you along the waters edge through the High Atlas Mountains once again as they meet the sea. You arrive in the charming little seaside town of ESSAOUIRA for a stay of 4 nights at the Sofitel Mogador Hotel*****. This very comfortable hotel faces the magnificent sandy beach and has excellent facilities including two restaurants, a large swimming-pool and a Thalassa Spa.
Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, has a truly delightful ambience. The harbour provides hours of spectacle as you watch the trawlers come and go, unload their catch and sell it on the quayside. There are fish stalls lining the harbour wall where you can choose your fish, watch it being cooked and eat it whilst taking in the local scene. The white walled buildings all have brightly painted blue shutters and doors and the narrow streets of the old medina are almost entirely traffic free. This is a marvellous place in which to relax, take walks along the ocean, explore the enchanting streets and reflect on all you have seen.
A last night back in Marrakech at the Tichka Salam Hotel will enable you to perhaps make a final visit to the souks and Djemaa el-Fna before your return home.
