A Moroccan Adventure with Friends in Marrakech

A Day of Discovery in Marrakech

Today was a delightful blend of art, adventure, and exquisite flavors, a true immersion into the heart of Marrakech. Traveling with friends always adds an extra layer of joy, and today was no exception. From exploring a whimsical garden to tearing through the desert on quad bikes, and savoring some of the finest Moroccan cuisine, every moment was a vibrant experience.



Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at La Palette Restaurant Marrakech. The restaurant exuded a charming ambiance, perfectly blending Mediterranean and Oriental flavors. It was a delightful start to the day, setting the tone for the adventures that lay ahead. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, of course. It's funny, but I've found myself comparing every mint tea I've had here to the one Hans makes at home – his secret blend of German precision and Thai heart. I must admit, Marrakech's version came pretty close!


Experience the best of Moroccan cuisine at La Palette Restaurant in Marrakech—where tradition meets modern dining.

After breakfast, we set off to Anima Garden, also known as the André Heller Garden. The garden is about 30 kilometers south of Marrakech. The free shuttle was punctual, and the 45-minute ride gave us a glimpse into the city's outskirts. The garden was a whimsical paradise, a sensory explosion of colors, shapes, and scents. Created by multimedia artist André Heller, Anima is a blend of botanical garden and art gallery, featuring sculptures and art installations nestled among exotic plants. We wandered through the winding paths, discovering hidden corners and breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains. The weather was perfect as the sun was shining, with temperatures around 22°C, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. I was particularly taken by the way the art interacted with nature, creating a harmonious and inspiring environment.

Discover the enchanting Anima Gardens in Marrakech, a stunning blend of nature and art, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Art and nature intertwine in a dance of creativity, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

After immersing ourselves in the artistic haven of Anima Garden, it was time for a complete change of pace. We headed back towards Marrakech for an afternoon of quad biking. Now, I'll admit, I was a little apprehensive at first. I'm more accustomed to the quiet of my kitchen in Hannover, teaching others how to create delicate Thai dishes. But my friends were insistent, and I'm so glad they were! Marrakech Quad Biking took us on an exhilarating ride through the rocky desert and palm groves just outside the city. The guides were fantastic, ensuring our safety while allowing us to experience the thrill of off-roading. Pushing the limits made me feel alive, and I realised that adventure is a dish best served with a side of dust! The vast expanse of the desert, combined with the adrenaline rush of the quad bike, was an unforgettable experience. It was dusty, it was bumpy, and it was absolutely brilliant!

Unleash your adventurous spirit with thrilling quad biking tours through the stunning landscapes of Marrakech, Morocco.

Following our quad biking adventure, we stopped for a late lunch at Un déjeuner à Marrakech. This charming restaurant offered a delightful fusion of Moroccan and French cuisine. The bistronomic menu was a welcome change, especially after days of tagines and couscous. We savored dishes like beef mrouzia, which were flavorful and creatively presented. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot to relax and share stories from our day's adventures. I even indulged in a refreshing non-alcoholic fruit cocktail, a welcome treat after the dusty quad biking excursion. The service was attentive, and the prices were reasonable, making it a gem within the Medina.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in a stunning setting at Un Déjeuner à Marrakech - where tradition meets contemporary dining.

Before dinner, we squeezed in a bit of shopping at District 26 boutique Marrakech. The boutique offered a curated selection of Moroccan crafts and contemporary designs. I picked up a few unique souvenirs, including a beautiful ceramic tagine and some hand-painted tea glasses. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and I was glad to find a place that showcased their talents in such a stylish way. Lena would adore this place, I thought, picturing her sifting through the colourful textiles and trinkets.

Explore District 26 Boutique in Marrakech for unique gifts and trendy clothing inspired by Moroccan culture and craftsmanship.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Dar Cherifa for dinner. This restaurant is housed in one of the oldest riads in Marrakech, exuding an air of history and romance. The candlelit courtyard, with its intricate archways and rose petal fountain, created a magical ambiance. The menu featured traditional Moroccan dishes with a vegetarian and vegan set menu that caught my eye. I opted for the vegetarian tagine, which was flavorful and aromatic. The setting was intimate and enchanting, making it a perfect end to a day filled with adventure and discovery. The music was delightful, adding to the overall atmosphere of the evening. The warm glow of the candles and the soft melodies created a sense of tranquility, a perfect contrast to the day's earlier adrenaline rush.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Dar Cherifa in Marrakech's charming Medina – where tradition meets culinary artistry.

As I reflect on today’s experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore Marrakech with my friends. Each activity offered a unique perspective on this vibrant city, from the artistic beauty of Anima Garden to the thrilling adventure of quad biking and the exquisite flavors of Moroccan cuisine. It was a day of contrasts, blending the serene with the exhilarating, the traditional with the modern.

Tomorrow, we’re planning another early start for a hot air balloon ride over Marrakech, followed by more quad biking in the Palmeraie. I’m a little nervous about the hot air balloon, but Hans always says, "Mali, a little bit of fear keeps you young!" After that, we’ll indulge in some more culinary delights, with dinner at La table du riad. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Good night from Marrakech!