Family Adventure in Marrakech: A Cultural and Relaxing Getaway

A Day Away From the Medina

Today was a day of escaping the vibrant chaos of Marrakech and embracing the serene beauty of the Atlas Mountains and the artistic wonders of the Anima Garden. It’s amazing how a short drive can transport you to such different worlds, each offering its own unique charm. I was particularly excited to share these experiences with Maximilian and Astrid, creating memories that I know we’ll cherish for years to come.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Babouche Medina. The rooftop setting offered a lovely view of the city waking up, and the traditional Moroccan pastries gave us the perfect energy boost for our adventure. Astrid was particularly fond of the mint tea, declaring it her new favorite drink. I enjoyed a traditional tagine, savoring the rich flavors and spices.


After breakfast, we met our tour guide for the Atlas Mountain excursion. The drive itself was breathtaking, with the landscape transforming from the flat plains surrounding Marrakech to the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains. As we ascended, the air grew crisper and the views more dramatic. The landscape was dotted with small Berber villages clinging to the hillsides, each one a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who call this place home.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

Our guide, a local Berber man, shared stories about his culture and traditions, offering us a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. He explained how the Berber people have adapted to the harsh environment, using the mountains' resources to build their homes, cultivate their land, and sustain their communities. It was a humbling experience to witness their deep connection to the land and their unwavering spirit.


We stopped at a traditional Berber home, where we were welcomed with warm hospitality and offered mint tea and homemade bread. The family shared stories about their daily lives, their customs, and their hopes for the future. Astrid was fascinated by the intricate patterns of the Berber carpets, learning about the symbols and meanings woven into each design. It was a wonderful opportunity for her to connect with a culture so different from her own, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.


For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Un déjeuner a Marrakech. The restaurant had a French-inspired menu, which was a welcome change after several days of tagines and couscous. We sat on the roof terrace, enjoying the fresh air and the panoramic views. Astrid chose a simple pasta dish, while Maximilian and I opted for the plat du jour, a delicious lamb stew with seasonal vegetables.


In the afternoon, we visited Anima Garden, a surreal and enchanting oasis created by the artist André Heller. The garden is a whimsical wonderland filled with sculptures, art installations, and exotic plants from around the world. As we strolled through the winding paths, we were constantly surprised and delighted by the unexpected sights and sounds. Astrid was particularly captivated by the giant sculptures, running around them with glee and posing for photos.


The garden was a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors, fragrant blossoms, and the gentle sound of water flowing through fountains and streams. It was a place where art and nature intertwined, creating a harmonious and inspiring environment. I found myself lost in contemplation, reflecting on the power of creativity and the beauty of the natural world. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the garden's innovative irrigation system, marveling at how it sustained such a lush landscape in the arid climate.


Before heading back to Marrakech, we made a stop at Les Nomades De Marrakech, a renowned carpet store. I had been wanting to purchase a traditional Moroccan rug as a souvenir of our trip, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The store was filled with a dazzling array of carpets, each one a unique work of art. The owner, Namous, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about his craft, sharing stories about the history and symbolism of each carpet.


I was immediately drawn to a beautiful Berber rug with intricate geometric patterns and vibrant colors. It felt like it was telling a story of the mountains and the people who lived there. After some friendly negotiation, I purchased the rug, knowing that it would be a cherished reminder of our adventure in Morocco. Astrid helped me pick out a smaller rug for her room back in Bamberg, a colorful piece that she immediately named Marrakech Sunset.


For dinner, we indulged in a memorable dining experience at Narwama. The restaurant, located in a historic palace in the Medina, offered a unique blend of Moroccan and Asian cuisine. The ambiance was magical, with traditional Moroccan architecture, soft lighting, and live music. We started with a selection of Moroccan mezze, savoring the flavors of olives, hummus, and spiced vegetables. For our main courses, we opted for a mix of Moroccan and Thai dishes, enjoying the fusion of flavors and spices.


Astrid was particularly impressed by the belly dancers who performed during dinner, clapping her hands and swaying to the music. Maximilian and I enjoyed a bottle of Moroccan wine, toasting to our wonderful day of adventure and discovery. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, the crispness of the mountain air, and the vibrant energy of Anima Garden. Today was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Morocco, and the importance of embracing new experiences and connecting with different cultures. I am so grateful to have shared this day with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the historical heart of Marrakech, with visits to the Saadian Tombs, El Badi Palace, and the Royal Palace. I’m particularly excited to explore these architectural marvels and learn more about the rich history of this fascinating city. I am also hoping we can find some time to relax at BAROMETRE COCKTAILS in Marrakech. After all this exploring, I feel like I will deserve a cocktail!


“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine