The Marrakech Villa Book
Morocco
Destination Guide
With its temperate winter climate, its wide range of scenery, culture, colours and wealth of fascinating cities, Morocco is an alluring and exotic holiday destination. The beautiful red-walled city of Marrakech encompasses all that is exciting and different about Morocco. With the snow-capped landscape of the impressive Atlas Mountains as its backdrop, this city of arts and crafts, magical souks, palm oases and magnificent palaces and mosques, is a sheer joy to the senses. From morning to dusk, through its colourful souks to the centre of the main Jemaa el Fna Square, carts loaded with fruit and grains, mountain folk selling their wares, fortune tellers, potion vendors and snake charmers; all contribute to the unreal spectacle that is Marrakech. Further attractions within this ancient imperial city dating back to the 11th century include a superb choice of restaurants, a casino, art galleries, museums and magnificent gardens. Our three very different riyads to rent are situated right in the city centre. Outside the ochre-coloured ramparts of the city, the atmosphere changes. Here, within a haven of peace, is the exclusive La Palmeraie, with 180,000 palm trees and a world class golf course. The properties we have here enjoy complete tranquillity, yet are just a short drive away from the centre of the city. The level of service at these properties is second to none. Fez, the cultural capital of Morocco and with the most complete medieval medina in the Arab world, is the city which has dominated Moroccan trade, culture, gastronomy, architecture and religious life since the end of the 10th century. Its medina is a haven for shoppers and provides some of the best of Moroccan craftwork. It is also the location of the beautiful riyad we have to rent here. Fez is also known for its excellent restaurants and there is good golfing at the Fez Royal Golf Club and Meknes Royal Golf Club. For those who prefer to be by the sea, we have another riyad in the heart of the medina in Essaouira, an enchanting town two hours drive south of Marrakech. Encircled by its 18th century battlements, Essaouira is known for its atmospheric medina, blue-shuttered houses, art galleries, wood workshops and windsurfing. Finally , again by the coast, we have a magnificent property at Bouznika Beach, one of Morocco’s trendiest beaches and golf resorts. Situated between the two major cities of Casablanca and Rabat, Bouznika is a more modern destination than Marrakech or Fez, ideal for those who wish to combine a beach and golfing holiday, yet enjoy the Morocco experience.