Marrakech Overview: Shopping, Accommodation, and Dining Spots to Explore
Marrakech, Morocco, offers a unique immersion into a different time and place. Just a short, three-hour flight from London, this vibrant city is steeped in history yet boasts a modern twist.
In the heart of Marrakech's Medina, you'll find the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, located within the city's original fortified citadel. With its mysterious atmosphere, the square is filled with fragrant smoke, snake charmers, jittery monkeys, and the pungent smell of rich spices. It's a sight to behold, a testament to Marrakech's rich cultural heritage.
The souk in the Medina is a must-visit for those seeking high-quality spices, crockery, and rugs. Here, you can explore the narrow, winding streets at your leisure, haggling with vendors for the perfect souvenir.
For those seeking luxury, the hotel La Sultana offers opulent interiors, heavenly indoor courtyards, and balconies festooned with bougainvillaea. Rooms start from £479 and feature an old-school charm, with some bedrooms named after animals. Yoga and breakfast are available on the rooftop, offering a dramatic view of the Atlas Mountains. The food at La Sultana is traditional with a twist, featuring fragrant tagines and Italian and French influences.
La Sultana also houses a Moroccan spa, offering thorough hammams and gloriously firm massages. If you're looking for a more private experience, the hotel's extensive spa services can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own suite.
If you're in the market for unique, tasselled bath towels, look no further than Valerie Barkowski's shop in Marrakech. For rugs with a modern edge, consider LRNCE in Marrakech. For the best, original textiles, head to Marrakech's industrial district and visit Topolina and Marakeshi Life.
For those seeking a more contemporary stay, the Mandarin Oriental offers private villas with their own swimming pools and bathrooms as big as a London flat. The hotel also lays out an extensive buffet and a roaming mariachi band during Easter. The Mandarin Oriental has a large spa and offers exquisite treatments in your own suite.
In Marrakech, you'll find Soufiane Zarib and Mustafa Blaoui, known as the carpet kings. Their shops are a treasure trove of intricately designed rugs, perfect for adding a touch of Moroccan charm to your home.
Marrakech is also home to numerous artists and designers, such as the Atelier Marrakech boutique by designer Youssef Benali, which produces exquisite, trendy clothing.
Whether you're seeking history, culture, or luxury, Marrakech has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey.
