Family Adventure in the Heart of Marrakech

Finding Peace and Beauty in Marrakech

Today was a day of serene discoveries and cultural immersion here in Marrakech. Away from the bustling crowds, I found pockets of tranquility and beauty that truly resonated with my soul. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences with you all.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Henna Café. Aisha was particularly excited, not just for the food, but because she knew what else this café was known for. The café was a visual treat. Colourful Moroccan lamps cast a warm glow over the space, and the aroma of spices filled the air. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast – msemen (pancakes) with honey and a steaming glass of mint tea. Hans chose a hearty omelette, and Aisha, of course, wanted a pastry. What made Henna Café special, though, wasn't just the food. It's a place where you can get safe and natural henna art done. Aisha had been asking for a henna tattoo since we arrived in Marrakech, and I felt comfortable letting her get one here, knowing they use only natural henna. While Aisha got her small, intricate design on her hand, Hans and I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and sipped on our tea. It was a lovely start to the day, and Aisha was beaming with pride, showing off her temporary tattoo to everyone we passed.


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

The beauty of Marrakech lies not only in its grand monuments but also in the quiet corners where art, history, and nature intertwine.

Next on our itinerary was Le Jardin Secret. After navigating through the maze-like streets of the Medina, we finally stumbled upon the entrance. Stepping inside was like entering another world. The Jardin Secret is a 19th-century palace complex that has been beautifully restored. The palace is divided into two gardens: an exotic garden and an Islamic garden. The Islamic garden was my favourite, with its symmetrical layout, fountains, and tranquil water features. The sound of the water created a calming atmosphere, a welcome respite from the bustling city outside. I could have spent hours simply sitting by the fountain, soaking in the peace and quiet. Hans, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the restored khettara, an ancient underground irrigation system that feeds the gardens. Aisha enjoyed exploring the exotic garden, pointing out the different plants and flowers. We even climbed the tower, which offered panoramic views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains in the distance. It was a truly breathtaking sight.


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.

Leaving the Jardin Secret, we ventured into Souk El Henna. This souk is known for its henna, kohl, and traditional herbal remedies. The air was filled with the aroma of spices and herbs. It felt different from the other souks we had visited, more relaxed and less chaotic. I was on the lookout for some natural Argan oil, something I had read about before coming to Marrakech. I found a small shop with a friendly vendor who explained the different grades and uses of the oil. I purchased a small bottle, hoping it would work wonders for my skin. Aisha, of course, was drawn to the colourful displays of henna, and I bought her a small cone so she could practice her own designs. Hans, meanwhile, was busy haggling for a small wooden box, something to remind him of our trip.


Explore the vibrant Souk El Henna in the heart of Marrakesh’s Medina for unique gifts and a taste of Moroccan culture.

Lunch was at La Table Ocre , a Moroccan restaurant that came highly recommended. It was a welcome escape from the midday sun, and the restaurant was beautifully decorated, with intricate tilework and comfortable seating. The menu featured a mix of traditional Moroccan dishes and Mediterranean cuisine. I opted for a tagine with chicken and preserved lemons, while Hans chose a couscous dish with vegetables. Aisha, predictably, wanted the chicken pastilla. The food was delicious, flavourful, and beautifully presented. The tagine was especially good, the chicken tender and the sauce rich and aromatic. It was a perfect spot to relax and refuel before continuing our day.


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

Our final stop for the day was the Dar Si Said Museum. This museum is housed in a 19th-century palace and showcases traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. It's known as the Museum of Moroccan Arts. The museum was much larger than I expected, with two floors filled with exhibits. We wandered through the rooms, admiring the intricate woodwork, colourful textiles, and beautiful pottery. I was particularly impressed by the collection of Berber jewellery, the amber and ivory pieces were exquisite. Hans was fascinated by the displays of traditional weapons, while Aisha enjoyed looking at the costumes and clothing. The palace itself was also a work of art, with its beautiful courtyards, fountains, and intricate carvings. It felt like stepping back in time, and I could imagine what life must have been like in this grand residence.


Explore the artistic legacy of Morocco at Dar Si Said Museum, a historic gem in the heart of Marrakech's Medina, showcasing traditional crafts and culture.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Nomad Marrakech , a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Medina. We had made a reservation in advance, knowing it was a popular spot. The restaurant was buzzing with activity, and we were seated on the upper roof, which offered the best views. The air was cool, but the restaurant provided hooded robes to keep us warm, which was a nice touch. The menu featured modern takes on traditional Moroccan dishes. We ordered a selection of starters to share, including zucchini fritters and a mixed vegetable salad. For our main courses, I chose the lamb barley couscous, while Hans opted for the beef tahini. Aisha, of course, wanted the panna cotta. The food was delicious, the flavours bold and interesting. The view was simply magical, the setting sun casting a golden glow over the city. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover exquisite Moroccan flavors at Nomad Marrakech - where tradition meets modernity in every dish.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Menara Gardens and Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam. I'm looking forward to more tranquil moments and perhaps a bit of digital detox in the Cyber Park. We'll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Le Nid'cigogne for breakfast, Cuisine De Terroir for lunch, and La Mamounia for dinner. And if time permits, we might even sneak in a drink at Le Bar Majorelle.



As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Marrakech has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you with a feeling of wonder. It's a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern life, where chaos gives way to serenity, and where every corner holds a new surprise. I'm so glad I could share this with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come. And I'm equally grateful to be able to share these experiences with you, my readers, hoping to inspire you to embark on your own adventures and discover the beauty of our world.