Family Adventure in Vibrant Marrakech

A Day of Discovery in Marrakech

Today was a day dedicated to immersing ourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Marrakech. Leaving the comfort of Riad Le Rubis, with Thomas and Leela in tow, we ventured into the heart of the city, ready to explore its hidden gems and historical landmarks. I was particularly excited to delve into the stories behind the city's architecture and art, something I always appreciate wherever our travels take us.


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

Our first stop was the Marrakech Museum. Housed in the magnificent Mnebhi Palace, the museum itself is a work of art. The palace, with its stunning central courtyard, cedar archways, and vibrant zellige tilework, immediately transported us to another era. Leela was mesmerized by the colorful patterns, and Thomas, with his keen eye for detail, admired the intricate craftsmanship. I was captivated by the grand chandelier hanging in the courtyard, a true masterpiece. While the museum showcases a diverse collection of Moroccan art, it was the architecture of the palace that truly stole the show.


Immerse yourself in the artistic wonders of the Marrakech Museum, where Moroccan culture and creativity come to life.

Wandering through the halls, we admired the exquisite ceramics from Fes and explored the palace's traditional hammam. The history of the building was palpable, and it was easy to imagine the lives of those who once lived within its walls. Even though the museum is one of the older ones in Marrakech, its rich history more than made up for any signs of age. It was a perfect start to our day, offering a glimpse into the artistic and cultural heritage of Morocco.

The beauty of Marrakech lies not just in its grand monuments, but in the small, hidden corners that whisper stories of the past.

Next on our itinerary was the Almoravid Koubba, a hidden gem located a short walk from the Marrakech Museum. This small monument, dating back to the 12th century, is the only surviving example of Almoravid architecture in Marrakech. Descending the stairs to reach the Koubba felt like stepping back in time. It was fascinating to learn that this structure was once part of a larger mosque complex and served as a place for ritual ablutions before prayer.


Discover the Almoravid Koubba, an architectural gem in Marrakech's Medina, offering insights into the rich history of the Almoravid dynasty.

The interior of the Koubba is richly decorated with floral patterns and calligraphy, showcasing the intricate artistry of the Almoravid dynasty. Thomas pointed out the pine cones, palms, and acanthus leaves carved into the walls, noting their significance in Moroccan architecture. Leela was intrigued by the ancient Maghrebi script, and I couldn't help but marvel at the fact that this small building had survived centuries of change and upheaval. The Almoravid Koubba offered a unique glimpse into the city's past, a reminder of the dynasties and cultures that have shaped Marrakech into the vibrant city it is today.

For lunch, we decided to try Simple Restaurant Marrakech, a place recommended for its straightforward and satisfying meals. We enjoyed a variety of vegetarian dishes, including flavorful tajine and couscous salads. The portions were generous, and the rooftop seating offered a pleasant view of the surrounding area. Leela particularly enjoyed the m'hanncha, a crispy veggie delight that we all agreed was worth coming back for. It was a relaxed and enjoyable meal, perfect for refueling after our morning of exploration.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Simple Restaurant in Marrakech - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

In the afternoon, I was eager to indulge in some shopping, so we headed to Boutique EL Fenn. Located within the stylish El Fenn hotel, this boutique offers a curated selection of Moroccan homewares, clothing, and furniture. The boutique aims to blend traditional artisanal techniques with a modern aesthetic, a fusion that I found particularly appealing. Co-owned by the Branson family and curated by Willem Smith and Paul Rowland, the boutique offers a unique shopping experience, removing the need for haggling in the souks.


Explore Boutique EL Fenn in Marrakech for a unique selection of handcrafted gifts and authentic Moroccan artistry, perfect for every traveler.

I was immediately drawn to the colorful textiles and ceramics, each piece telling a story of Moroccan craftsmanship. Leela loved browsing the jewelry, while Thomas admired the contemporary and vintage fashion on display. We ended up purchasing a beautiful hand-woven rug for our living room in Heidelberg, a reminder of our time in Marrakech. The Boutique EL Fenn was a delightful escape from the bustling streets, a place where we could appreciate the artistry and creativity of Moroccan design.

As evening approached, we made our way to Le Bistro Arabe - Moroccan Jazz Restaurant for dinner. Located on Rue Riad Zitoun el Kdim, this restaurant combines traditional Moroccan cuisine with live jazz music, creating a unique and vibrant dining experience. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with colorful textiles, intricate tile work, and ornate lanterns adding to the ambiance. We were greeted by friendly staff and seated at a cozy table near the jazz band.


Discover Le Bistro Arabe: A fine dining haven in Marrakech offering Moroccan cuisine paired with enchanting live jazz performances.

The menu featured a variety of classic Moroccan dishes, and we decided to try the chef's recommendations: méchoui, fried prawns, and sardine. The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavor and spices. Leela was particularly fond of the cheesecakes. The live jazz music added to the ambiance, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. It was a perfect way to end our day, savoring the flavors of Morocco while enjoying the soulful melodies of the jazz band.

After dinner, we decided to try Naranj Libanese for a change of pace. This restaurant, located near Jamaa El-Fna, offers delicious Lebanese cuisine in a cozy and stylish setting. The interior design was modern and inviting, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing meal away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the Beef Shawarma and the Fatet Batinjane, both of which were packed with flavor. The homemade limonade was a refreshing addition to our meal.


Discover the rich flavors of Lebanon at Naranj Libanese in Marrakesh - where tradition meets modern dining in an enchanting atmosphere.

The service was excellent, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of the food. Naranj Libanese provided a delightful culinary experience, offering a break from traditional Moroccan cuisine and a taste of the Middle East. It was a perfect way to end our evening, savoring the flavors of Lebanon in the heart of Marrakech.

As we walked back to Riad Le Rubis, hand in hand, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored historical landmarks, indulged in delicious cuisine, and immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of Marrakech. It was a day filled with discovery and appreciation, a testament to the city's rich heritage and artistic spirit. Even Leela, usually tired by the end of the day, was buzzing with excitement, recounting her favorite moments from the Marrakech Museum and the Almoravid Koubba. Days like these are what make traveling with family so special, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we're planning a trip to the Ourika Valley Waterfalls. I've heard it's a beautiful escape from the city, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the natural beauty of Morocco. After breakfast at L'Mdina Marrakech, we'll head out for a day of hiking and exploring. Lunch will be at Restaurant Casa Lalla, and we'll end the day with dinner at Dar Yacout. It promises to be another exciting day, filled with new adventures and unforgettable experiences. I can't wait to share it with you all! I am also looking forward to the Turath Heritage Days – 3rd Edition, which starts tomorrow and lasts until May 25th. Perhaps we can check it out!