Travel for real
Marrakesh, the refined and relaxed
If you would like to rest and be looked after during your short stay, Marrakesh has all the assets for bringing you the necessary calm.
Peaceful rhythm
After a drive in a horse drawn carriage along the Marrakesh ramparts, head for the magnificent 12th century Agdal Garden. Its ponds, rose bushes, orange, pomegranate and olive trees make it an enchanting spot. Don't miss a stroll in the Majorelle Garden where Yves Saint-Laurent's ashes now lie. An elegant and touching little paradise on earth which houses an Islamic art museum installed in a blue-walled Art Deco villa.
Enjoyment from on high
Head quietly for one of the café terraces near the Place Jemaa-el-Fna rather than inching your way through the picturesque crowds on the square. Watching the hustle and bustle from a height won't diminish the exotic and out of the ordinary charm of the crowds below. You won't tire of looking at the fire-eaters, healers, musicians and other performers fascinating the eager spectators. For a more exclusive break, have a drink in the famous palace near the medina. For aerial sensations, fly over the 'red' city in a hot-air balloon.
Cool and green
The Marrakesh palm grove is awaiting you. With more than 100000 trees, it was, for a long time, the kitchen garden of the region. You can visit it peacefully in a horse drawn carriage and stop now and then to admire the splendidly laid out gardens.
North African pleasures
Nothing is better than a massage session after a steam bath in a hammam for relaxing and rapidly recovering your energy. You can then enjoy our pastries and ice creams without any complex. You will have earned it!
To remember
Tour refined gardens peacefully at your own pace, bask in the sun on a terrace or allow yourself a regenerating hammam.
Essaouia, an unspoilt setting
Essaouira is both a remarkable fortified coastal citadel and a comfortable seaside resort.
Walks and marvels
The mild oceanic torpor of Essaouira is an invitation to rest and let go. Here, walking is an art which is practised slowly and for short distances. It is delightful to enjoy the beach on horse or camel back. You can catch yourself scanning the horizon from the ramparts as the artillerymen probably did before using their now silent cannons. As you stand in front of the workshop of a cabinetmaker or inlayer, you will be surprised by the number of different kinds of wood used by these skilful craftsmen. As Essaouia has always inspired artists, an impressive number of art galleries are scattered about the town: you must visit some to discover contemporary art which blends a multitude of traditions (Arab, Berber, Jewish, African and European).
Contemplation and daydreaming
Essaouira has always welcomed visitors from around the world who are warmly received in the town's numerous café terraces and fashionable restaurants. In some well-placed ones, you can enjoy a drink or dine while musing about the far off horizon. The cafés on the Place Moulay-Hassan are very busy in the evening.
Languor by the ocean
Essaouira beach is a 10km long ribbon rocked by the swell. Once you set foot on this spotless sand, the sea air will invigorate you. Even more so after savouring an ice cream or enjoying a beneficial thalassotherapy session! You could also choose to have some argan oil care for its moisturizing and anti-aging virtues. It's a local specialty.
To remember
Come to Essaouira and enjoy the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.
Tangier, standing guard on the Strait
Tangier has always attracted artists from all over the world. Like a lookout on the prow of the African continent, Tangier, the white, awaits you.
Another world
If you are short on time, Tangier is one of the most exotic destinations you can find. Perched like a sentry, it keeps watch on the Strait of Gibraltar. The view, from a shady terrace, of the lower town and the ships which cruise on the open sea is enchanting.
Medina from on high
When you arrive in Tangier you will be even more disorientated if you climb up to the medina. Get to Petit Socco Place, previously the centre of the old town where famous artists and writers met. You will quickly realize why it appealed to Jean Genet, Camille Saint-Saëns, William Burroughs, Paul Morand, Paul Bowles, Tennessee Williams, Jack Kerouac and even Malcolm Forbes.
Unique atmosphere
Is it its previous status of international city, its cosmopolitan ambience which gives Tangier its special character? A strange mixture of emotions which makes you feel at peace. Your senses are on alert, stimulated by the fragrances and colours of the market stalls. Tangier is a city where you can buy what ever you need to spoil your close friends or family or to decorate your home. You can find a sample of the best Moroccan handicrafts there. You must see the Dar El-Makhzen Palace, the very interesting museum of the kasbah and walk through the sultan's gardens.
To remember
Tangier, the white city, is an ideal destination for relaxing while watching the ships sail through the Strait of Gibraltar from a terrace in the medina.
