Family Adventure in Vibrant Marrakech

Oases of Calm in the Red City

Today was a day dedicated to beauty and tranquility, a welcome contrast to the vibrant chaos of the Marrakech souks. Thomas, Leela, and I set out to explore some of the city's most enchanting gardens and artistic tributes. It was a day of visual delights and peaceful reflection, a reminder of why I cherish these family adventures so much.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at L'Mdina Marrakech. The traditional Moroccan pastries and mint tea were the perfect start, fueling us for a day of exploration. Leela was particularly fond of the sweet treats, and Thomas enjoyed the strong, aromatic tea. It's these simple moments, sharing food and laughter, that make our travels so special. I even managed to practice a few German idioms with Thomas, much to Leela's amusement.

Jardin Majorelle: A Symphony of Blue

Our first stop was the Jardin Majorelle. The moment we stepped through the gates, we were transported to a different world. The intense Majorelle blue of the buildings against the lush greenery was simply breathtaking. It felt like stepping into a painting. The garden was designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. It’s a haven of exotic plants, tranquil water features, and vibrant colors. I was particularly struck by the variety of cacti and the way the sunlight filtered through the bamboo forest. Leela was fascinated by the koi fish in the ponds, and Thomas, ever the mathematician, was intrigued by the geometric patterns in the garden's design. The weather was perfect, sunny with a gentle breeze, making our stroll even more enjoyable. It's amazing how a place can be so visually stunning and yet so peaceful.


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

The beauty of Marrakech lies not just in its bustling markets, but also in its hidden oases of art and nature.

Yves Saint Laurent Museum: A Fashion Icon's Legacy

Adjacent to the Jardin Majorelle, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum was our next destination. As someone who appreciates both art and fashion, I was eager to see this tribute to a legendary designer. The museum showcases Saint Laurent's creations, highlighting his inspirations and his deep connection to Marrakech. The exhibits were beautifully curated, displaying iconic pieces and sketches that revealed the designer's creative process. It was fascinating to see how Moroccan culture influenced his work, from the vibrant colors to the flowing fabrics. Leela, surprisingly, was quite engaged, pointing out her favorite dresses and asking about the different styles. Thomas, always interested in history, appreciated the museum's dedication to preserving Saint Laurent's legacy. The museum itself is an architectural marvel, designed to reflect the weave of fabric, a fitting tribute to a master of couture. The main presentation room was breathtaking, and I was lucky to explore the space in relative calm, allowing me to get up close to the clothing to see the full detail. The influence of travel and art were evident is YSL's creations which were amazing to see. The fabrics were just stunning, detailed and so richly coloured. The mannequins were elegant, wearing clothes which have so much history and pieces that have influenced the whole of fashion. Along with clothing YSL's prints and sketches were on display. I was so envious of his sketches, there's such a sense of movement and life in his sketches. He could perfectly capture a creation in a simple sketch.


Discover the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent at the museum dedicated to his iconic fashion journey in Marrakesh, blending haute couture with Moroccan culture.

After immersing ourselves in art and fashion, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira, a charming spot in the Medina recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tagine and couscous, all bursting with flavor. Leela enjoyed the chicken tagine, while Thomas and I savored the vegetarian couscous. It was a delicious and satisfying meal, a perfect representation of Moroccan hospitality. I even tried out a few phrases in Arabic, much to the amusement of the staff. Apparently, my pronunciation needs some work!


Experience the true taste of Morocco at Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Le Jardin Secret: A Hidden Gem

Our final stop of the day was Le Jardin Secret, a hidden oasis in the heart of the Medina. This garden, once a 16th-century Saadian palace, was rediscovered and restored in 2008. It’s divided into two parts: an exotic garden and an Islamic garden, each with its unique design and atmosphere. The exotic garden was filled with plants from around the world, while the Islamic garden showcased traditional Moroccan landscaping. The intricate tile work, the tranquil fountains, and the lush vegetation created a sense of serenity that was truly magical. Leela loved exploring the different pathways, discovering hidden corners and secret nooks. Thomas was impressed by the garden's ancient water systems, a testament to Moroccan engineering ingenuity. I found myself lost in the beauty of the surroundings, appreciating the meticulous restoration and the sense of history that permeated the air. It was the perfect place to reflect on our day and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Wandering the courtyards, it's easy to imagine the grandeur of its past. This garden was indeed a hidden secret until it was rediscovered and restored to its former glory in 2008. Once a 16th-century Saadian palace, for almost 200 years these gardens were considered a marvel within the Medina. Sadly, by the late 18th century the tides of power were changing and the estate fell into decline and disrepair. Today, meticulously restored, Le Jardin Secret opens its doors and invites you to step back in time and into a remarkable space in the heart of bustling Marrakech.


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.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Marrakech from a different perspective. We made our way to Le Salama Sky-bar, a rooftop bar known for its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. From the terrace, we watched the sunset over the city, the sky ablaze with colors. We sipped on refreshing drinks, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the lively music. Leela, of course, opted for a non-alcoholic cocktail, while Thomas and I sampled some local wines. The sky bar was located close to our accommodation. It was the perfect end to a day filled with beauty and tranquility. The panoramic views of Marrakech as the sun dipped below the horizon were breathtaking, making it an ideal setting for a memorable evening.


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

For dinner, we returned to the Medina. We chose Dar Moha, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Moroccan dishes and elegant setting. The restaurant was located in an old palace, adding to the ambiance. We enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Moroccan cuisine, savoring the flavors and spices. Leela was entertained by the live music, and Thomas and I enjoyed the romantic atmosphere. The Tagine, the Trid, the Pastilla or the Tangia Marrakchia were all spectacular. It was a fitting end to a day that had been a feast for the senses.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Dar Moha in Marrakesh's historic Medina; where tradition meets elegance.

As we walked back to Riad Le Rubis, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments. Sharing these experiences with my family, watching Leela's eyes light up with wonder, and seeing Thomas's appreciation for history and culture – these are the memories that I will cherish forever. And I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore the Madrasa Ben Youssef, the House of Photography, and the Dar Si Said Museum. Marrakech continues to surprise and delight us at every turn.


Discover comfort and culture at Riad Le Rubis, a tranquil haven in the heart of Marrakesh, just steps from iconic landmarks and experiences.

I also realized I forgot to pack an adapter for the Moroccan outlets and an extra memory card for my camera. I will need to buy these tomorrow. It's a good thing there are many shops in Marrakech.

Good night from Marrakech!