For caravans emerging from the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech was for centuries the beguiling, bewitching city where the road-weary could load up on luxuries and necessities before pushing on across Northern Africa. Some never left
Not much has changed. The city, its Medina and ancient sites remain among the most picturesque on earth. The walled medieval city is best experienced on foot or by bike. The centuries-old minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque towers over its neighbours and enables you to orient yourself from souk to souk. Sample the exquisite craftsmanship in wool, copper and carpets, drop into the chicest boutiques and luxuriate in the sheer sensuality of Marrakech.
For a glimpse of what's in store, visit www.visitmorocco.com and www.ilovemarrakech.com.
As for where to stay, I recommend two fabulous hotels one in the heart of the city, and the other nestled in the nearby Atlas Mountains. Each is so special and so different that I'd recommend dividing your time between both!
La Sultana Marrakech
A boutique hotel in the Kasbah section of the Medina, La Sultana is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Sumptuously Moroccan in design, La Sultana Marrakech is actually a collection of four historic "riads" (or hotels) situated close to the Royal Palace. Wander its secluded courtyards and gardens, dip into the ionized pool, sample its splendid cooking and enjoy a spa that caters to body and soul. It's the perfect Marrakech base from which to launch forays into the city. Then unwind and take in the panoramic view from La Sultana's rooftop terrace.
The Kasbah Tamadot
Billed as Sir Richard Branson's Moroccan retreat, the Kasbah Tamadot is nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, a short drive from Marrakech. A luxury hotel Richard Branson has filled with priceless treasures from India and Morocco, the Kasbah Tamadot is an experience unlike anything else in North Africa. There's lots to do in the High Atlas peaks, including long treks, mountain biking, tennis and golf. Or stay in, enjoy the world-class spa treatments in the Hammam
and hope to spot Sir Richard himself!
