Solo Cultural Escape to Marrakech

Oases of Calm and Rooftop Revelations

Today was a delightful escape into the serene heart of Marrakech, followed by an evening soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere from above. It was a day of contrasts, from the tranquil beauty of hidden gardens to the lively buzz of a rooftop bar. I'm finding that Marrakech has a way of balancing the frenetic energy of the souks with pockets of absolute peace, and I'm so glad I discovered some of those peaceful places today.


My day began with a quest for tranquility at the Jardin Majorelle. As someone who appreciates art and design, especially with a nod to sustainability, I was eager to see this iconic garden. Leaving the Riad Aladdin, I walked towards the Gueliz district, the newer part of Marrakech, where the gardens are located. The walk itself was interesting, a blend of modern avenues and glimpses into local life. I missed my hat and sunglasses today, but I'll remember them tomorrow.



Explore Jardin Majorelle, a botanical paradise in Marrakech filled with vibrant colors, exotic plants, and rich cultural heritage, perfect for a peaceful escape.

Arriving at the Jardin Majorelle, the first thing that struck me was the intense 'Majorelle Blue' – a color so vibrant it feels like a jolt of energy. The garden was conceived by the French artist Jacques Majorelle and later lovingly restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. The story of its creation and preservation is as captivating as the garden itself. Wandering through the pathways, I was surrounded by an incredible collection of plants from all corners of the earth. Towering cacti stood next to delicate bamboo, creating a surreal landscape that felt both exotic and familiar. The sound of water trickling through fountains added to the sense of calm, making it easy to forget the bustling city just beyond the walls.

The beauty of Marrakech lies not just in its vibrant chaos, but in the serene sanctuaries it holds within.

Next on my list was the Musée Berbère, nestled within the Jardin Majorelle. It's housed in Jacques Majorelle's former painting studio. The museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the rich culture and artistry of the Berber people, the original inhabitants of North Africa. The collection of textiles, jewelry, and artifacts was beautifully curated, providing insights into the history and traditions of this ancient culture. I was particularly drawn to the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the Berber carpets, each telling a story of its own. It was inspiring to see how Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé valued and preserved this important cultural heritage.



Explore the rich heritage of Berber culture at Musée Berbère in Marrakesh, a serene museum set within the stunning Jardin Majorelle.

After immersing myself in Berber culture, I ventured to Le Jardin Secret, located in the heart of the Medina. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, navigating the labyrinthine alleyways with the help of Google Maps. This garden is a hidden gem, a peaceful oasis tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the souks. Le Jardin Secret is a 19th-century palace complex beautifully showcasing traditional Islamic architecture and design. The garden is split into two distinct spaces: an exotic garden and an Islamic garden. The Islamic garden, with its perfectly symmetrical layout and water features, showcases traditional Moroccan garden design. The exotic garden was lush with plants from around the world. The climb to the top of the tower offered panoramic views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains.



Explore the enchanting beauty of Le Jardin Secret, a tranquil botanical garden in Marrakesh's Medina, perfect for a peaceful escape amidst the city's vibrant culture.

For lunch, I chose Le Jardin Restaurant Marrakech Medina, drawn in by its promise of a tranquil setting and delicious Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant is set in a beautiful green courtyard, filled with plants and offering a respite from the busy streets. I enjoyed a flavorful tagine, savoring the spices and aromas that are so characteristic of Moroccan cooking. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect spot to recharge before continuing my explorations.



Discover authentic Moroccan flavors in a serene garden setting at Le Jardin Restaurant in Marrakech's enchanting Medina.

As evening approached, I decided to experience Marrakech from a different perspective – high above the city at Le Salama Sky-bar. Located in the heart of the Medina, this rooftop bar offered stunning views of the cityscape, especially as the sun began to set. The ambiance was lively and vibrant, with music and a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening air. I sipped on a refreshing drink, watching the city transform as the lights came on, casting a magical glow over the rooftops and minarets. The sky bar had belly dancers and I enjoyed the Casablanca beer.



Discover the enchanting Le Salama Sky-bar in Marrakech, where stunning views meet exquisite Moroccan cuisine and a vibrant social atmosphere.

For dinner, I opted for a change of pace and visited Pepe Nero, a restaurant offering a fusion of Italian and Moroccan cuisines. The venue was amazing and the staff was friendly. I decided to try the Moroccan slow cooked lamb shoulder. The food was served amazingly fast. The atmosphere was lovely. It was a delightful culinary experience, blending the flavors of two different cultures in a unique and satisfying way.



Discover the exquisite fusion of Italian and Moroccan cuisine at Pepe Nero in Marrakech's vibrant Medina.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into the cultural heart of Marrakech, visiting the Marrakech Museum, Madrasa Ben Youssef, and Dar Si Said Museum. I'm also looking forward to doing some shopping at 33 RUE MAJORELLE. It’s conveniently located near Jardin Majorelle. Each day here brings new discoveries and experiences, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds.