Family Adventure in Vibrant Marrakech

A Day of Serenity and History

Today was a beautiful blend of tranquility and history, a day where Marrakech revealed its serene and majestic sides. We started with lush gardens, wandered through ancient tombs, and ended with breathtaking rooftop views. It was a day filled with family moments, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. I'm so glad to be sharing these experiences with Thomas and Leela; their joy makes every moment even more precious.


Our day began with a delightful breakfast at the Henna Café. It's such a charming spot, and knowing that it's a not-for-profit social enterprise makes the experience even better. I opted for their Moroccan breakfast, which included delicious crepes with honey, butter, and jam, along with a steaming glass of mint tea. Thomas enjoyed their take on the English breakfast tea, and Leela was thrilled with her hot chocolate. The Henna Café is not only known for its food but also for its beautiful henna art, and I was tempted to get a small design, but we had a busy day ahead. I made a mental note to return later in the week, maybe for an evening of henna and mezze dishes.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and henna artistry at Henna Café in Marrakesh's enchanting Medina.

Sometimes, the most enriching experiences are found in the quiet corners of a bustling city.

Our first stop was the Menara Gardens. The gardens were established in the 12th century around a large lake, originally designed to irrigate the surrounding orchards. As we walked around the perimeter, I couldn't help but imagine the Almohad soldiers practicing swimming in the pool before crossing the Mediterranean to conquer Andalusia. Leela was fascinated by the large carps swimming in the basin, and we spent a good while watching them glide through the water. The iconic pavilion, with its small green pyramid roof, offered a picturesque backdrop, and we snapped some family photos with it. While the gardens were lovely, they were more functional than ornamental, with small trees that offered little shade. However, the sense of history and the serene atmosphere made it a worthwhile visit. It was interesting to know that the name 'Agdal' comes from the Berber language and means 'walled meadow'.


Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and historical richness of La Ménara Pavilion in Marrakesh, a must-visit cultural treasure.

Next, we ventured to the Agdal Gardens. These gardens, even larger than the Menara Gardens, were established in 1157 by Almohad Caliph 'Abd al-Mu'min. As we entered, I immediately felt a sense of tranquility wash over me. The gardens stretched out before us, a vast expanse of olive, pomegranate, and orange trees planted in neat rows. Leela loved running along the paths, her laughter echoing through the groves. The Agdal Gardens are not just beautiful; they are also a testament to the ingenuity of ancient engineering. The gardens are irrigated by two large reservoirs, filled via a network of underground channels dating back to the 12th century. We learned that the gardens once served as both productive orchards and private pleasure gardens for the caliph, a perfect blend of practicality and beauty. Despite the lack of seating, we enjoyed a long, leisurely walk, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the distant views of the Grand Atlas Mountains.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Agdal Gardens, a historical oasis in Marrakesh, perfect for relaxation and nature enthusiasts.

After our refreshing stroll through the gardens, we were ready for lunch. We had made reservations at La Mamounia, an iconic hotel known for its luxurious ambiance and exquisite cuisine. As we stepped into the hotel, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The Jacques Garcia-designed lobby was stunning, with its plush leather sofas, intricate woodwork, and soft lighting. We were greeted with cool glasses of almond milk and dates, a welcome treat after our morning of exploration. For lunch, we chose Le Pavillon de la Piscine, the hotel's poolside restaurant. The setting was idyllic, with views of the lush gardens and sparkling pool. I opted for a traditional Moroccan tagine, while Thomas chose a European dish, and Leela enjoyed a simple pasta. The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to share it with my family.


Experience unmatched luxury at La Mamounia in Marrakesh – where timeless elegance meets vibrant culture.

Our final attraction for the day was the Saadian Tombs. These tombs, dating back to the 16th century, remained hidden for centuries, only to be rediscovered in 1917. As we entered the complex, I was immediately struck by the intricate tilework and luxurious decoration. The tombs are the final resting place of Saadian princes, chancellors, and wives, a testament to the dynasty's wealth and refined taste. The Chamber of the Twelve Columns was particularly breathtaking, with its Carrara marble columns, cedarwood dome, and elaborate stucco work. Leela was fascinated by the colorful zellij tiles, and we spent time admiring the geometric patterns and intricate designs. The Saadian Tombs are not just a historical site; they are an architectural masterpiece, showcasing the fusion of Moroccan and Andalusian styles. Walking through the serene courtyards and chambers, I felt a deep connection to the past, a sense of reverence for the artisans and rulers who had created this beautiful necropolis.


Discover the Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark revealing the grandeur of Morocco's royal past through stunning architecture and rich history.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Kosybar Marrakech, a rooftop bar in the Medina. I had heard great things about its views and ambiance, and I was eager to experience it for myself. As we ascended to the rooftop terrace, I was immediately captivated by the panoramic vistas. The terrace offered stunning views of the El Badi Palace, with its stork nests perched along the walls, and the distant Koutoubia Mosque. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with comfortable seating and soft lighting. We ordered some drinks and light snacks, and settled in to watch the sunset. Leela was thrilled to see the storks flying overhead, and Thomas and I enjoyed the peaceful ambiance and the beautiful views. Kosybar is known for its fusion cuisine, blending Moroccan, International, and Japanese flavors, and I made a mental note to return for dinner another evening. It was the perfect way to end our day, a moment of serenity and beauty shared with my loved ones.


Experience the vibrant fusion of Moroccan and Japanese cuisine at Kosybar Marrakech, a relaxing lounge and spa in the heart of the city.

For dinner, we decided to try La Table Ocre, a Moroccan restaurant located in the Medina Mall. I had read that it offers authentic Moroccan dishes in a warm and inviting setting, and I was eager to experience it for myself. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, with a blend of modern and traditional motifs. We were greeted warmly and seated at a cozy table. I opted for the lamb tagine, while Thomas chose a couscous dish, and Leela enjoyed some grilled chicken skewers. The food was delicious, bursting with aromatic spices and flavors. The lamb tagine was particularly memorable, the meat tender and flavorful, and the couscous was light and fluffy. La Table Ocre is committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and it showed in every dish. It was a perfect end to our culinary journey for the day.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at La Table Ocre in Marrakech's Medina Mall - where tradition meets taste.

Tomorrow, we're planning an excursion to the Atlas Mountains. I'm excited to escape the city and explore the rugged landscapes and traditional Berber villages. I've heard that the views are breathtaking and that the cultural experiences are enriching. I'm especially looking forward to sharing this adventure with Thomas and Leela, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come. I've already packed our essentials, including sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and our trusty travel guidebook. I did remember to get an adapter for the outlets this time, but I still need to get an extra memory card for my camera. It seems I always forget something, but that's part of the adventure, right?


As I reflect on today, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Marrakech with my family. It's a city that captivates the senses, a place where history, culture, and beauty intertwine. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of this beautiful Sunday.