Family Adventure in the Heart of Marrakech

Marrakech in Bloom

Today was a day of vibrant colors, artistic inspiration, and a deep dive into the world of fashion and beauty. Marrakech has a way of captivating the senses, and today was no exception. From the tranquil gardens to the stunning museum, every moment was a feast for the eyes. It's amazing how much beauty can be found in a single day, and I'm so excited to share my experiences with you all.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Bakchich Cafe. The cafe was only a short taxi ride away from Riad Elias.


Discover the enchanting Riad Elias in Marrakesh, where luxury meets local charm. Enjoy exquisite dining, relaxing pools, and cultural experiences.

I savored a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea and pastries. Aisha enjoyed some fresh fruit, and Hans had a strong coffee to prepare for the day ahead. The cafe itself was a riot of color, with recycled materials used to create a quirky and inviting atmosphere.

After breakfast, we made our way to Jardin Majorelle, a place I had been eagerly anticipating.


Explore Jardin Majorelle, a botanical paradise in Marrakech filled with vibrant colors, exotic plants, and rich cultural heritage, perfect for a peaceful escape.

The garden was founded by Jacques Majorelle in 1924. Later, in 1980, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé became the owners. The garden is a vibrant oasis in the heart of Marrakech. As we stepped through the entrance, we were immediately enveloped in a world of intense blues, lush greens, and exotic plants. The striking cobalt blue of the buildings, known as Majorelle Blue, was a sight to behold against the backdrop of towering cacti, bamboo forests, and vibrant bougainvillea. I learned that Jardin Majorelle is celebrating its centenary in 2024. The garden truly felt like an open-air living museum.

Aisha was particularly fascinated by the water features, chasing after the koi fish in the ponds and marveling at the intricate tilework. Hans, ever the photographer, was snapping away, trying to capture the garden's unique beauty from every angle. Even though it's January, the weather was pleasantly mild, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. The temperature was around 19°C during the day, but it did get cooler in the evening, as expected.

Colors speak louder than words.

After spending a couple of hours wandering through the garden, we decided to visit the Musée Berbère, located within Jardin Majorelle.


Explore the rich heritage of Berber culture at Musée Berbère in Marrakesh, a serene museum set within the stunning Jardin Majorelle.

The museum houses a fascinating collection of Berber artifacts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Berber people. I was particularly drawn to the intricate jewelry and textiles, each piece telling a story of tradition and craftsmanship. Aisha, with her boundless curiosity, peppered me with questions about the Berber way of life, eager to learn more about this ancient culture.

Leaving the Musée Berbère, we crossed the street to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.


Discover the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent at the museum dedicated to his iconic fashion journey in Marrakesh, blending haute couture with Moroccan culture.

As a fashion enthusiast, this was a must-see for me. The museum is dedicated to the life and work of the iconic designer, showcasing his most famous creations and highlighting his deep connection to Marrakech. The museum was designed by Studio KO architects. The exterior evokes the weft and warp of fabric, while the interior evokes the lining of a couture jacket.

The exhibits were stunning, featuring a curated selection of Saint Laurent's haute couture designs, sketches, and photographs. I was particularly moved by the stories behind each piece, learning about the inspiration and craftsmanship that went into creating these timeless works of art. Aisha, surprisingly, was equally captivated, admiring the elegant silhouettes and vibrant colors of the garments. She kept pointing at the sketches, saying how much she loved the sense of movement in them.

After immersing ourselves in the world of YSL, we decided to do some shopping at 33 RUE MAJORELLE.


Discover the vibrant artistry of Marrakech at 33 Rue Majorelle, where unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship await every traveler.

It’s considered one of the most sought-after stores in Morocco. The store features a curated selection of Moroccan brands and designer products. I found some beautiful handcrafted jewelry and a stylish djellaba for Aisha, while Hans picked up a few unique home décor items. The atmosphere was chic and modern, a refreshing contrast to the bustling souks of the Medina.

For lunch, we headed to Le Jardin Restaurant Marrakech Medina.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors in a serene garden setting at Le Jardin Restaurant in Marrakech's enchanting Medina.

A charming spot known for its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. The restaurant is owned by Kamal Laftimi. The green-on-green tiled riad was filled with banana trees. We enjoyed a delicious Moroccan meal, savoring tagine and fresh salads in the peaceful courtyard. Aisha loved the meatballs, while Hans and I enjoyed the traditional tagine. The setting was perfect for a relaxing midday break, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was so relaxing to sit in the garden filled with plants.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Pepe Nero.


Discover the exquisite fusion of Italian and Moroccan cuisine at Pepe Nero in Marrakech's vibrant Medina.

For dinner, an Italian restaurant known for its romantic ambiance and exquisite cuisine. The restaurant is located in the heart of the Medina. We started with some delicious appetizers, followed by homemade pasta dishes that were simply divine. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was perfect for a special evening out. I opted for the lamb shoulder, while Hans enjoyed the tortellini. Aisha was thrilled with her king prawns. The cool staff and fancy decor made the experience even better. The restaurant was celebrating its 20th anniversary as an emblem of haute cuisine in Marrakech.

Reflecting on the day, I feel so grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Marrakech with my family. From the vibrant gardens to the elegant museums and exquisite cuisine, every moment was a treasure. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, exploring the Madrasa Ben Youssef and the souks, I can't help but feel excited about what lies ahead. I’m particularly looking forward to visiting the Madrasa Ben Youssef. It is one of the largest theological colleges in Morocco. We will have breakfast at La table du riad, lunch at Le Foundouk, and dinner at Dar Moha. I'm also excited to check out Latifshop Moroccan Artisanat & déco.

Before heading back to our riad, we took a leisurely stroll through the Medina, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city at night. The air was filled with the aroma of spices and the sounds of music, creating a magical atmosphere that I will never forget. It was the perfect end to a perfect day in Marrakech.

The Marathon de Marrakech is held in January. There are also several conferences held in Marrakech in January, including the ITIC MEA conference. The Moulay Idriss Festival also takes place in January in Fez. I’m glad we were able to visit during a time with fewer crowds. The mild weather was also very enjoyable!

Marrakech continues to surprise and delight, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Marrakech!