Family Adventure in the Heart of Marrakech

Day 8: A Day of Serenity and Culinary Delights in Marrakech

Discover Marrakech's tranquil gardens and savor exquisite Moroccan cuisine in a day filled with family fun and cultural immersion.

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Gardens and Gastronomy


Today was a beautiful blend of tranquility and tantalizing tastes, offering a perfect snapshot of Marrakech's diverse charm. From serene gardens to exquisite dining experiences, it was a day of simple pleasures and family bonding. It felt like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the Moroccan culture.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Le Nid´cigogne. The restaurant's terrace offered a stunning view, and Aisha was immediately captivated by the sight of storks nesting nearby. I remember growing up in Koumpentoum, where nature was always so present. It felt comforting to see Aisha connect with nature in a similar way. The breakfast itself was a treat, with an assortment of Moroccan pastries and freshly squeezed orange juice. Hans particularly enjoyed the traditional msemen, a flaky pancake, while Aisha devoured a pain au chocolat with gusto.

Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Le Nid´cigogne in Marrakesh – where every meal is a celebration of culture and taste.
Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Le Nid´cigogne in Marrakesh – where every meal is a celebration of culture and taste.

After breakfast, we ventured to the Menara Gardens. The gardens, dating back to the 12th century, provided a peaceful escape from the city's vibrant energy. The air was crisp and clean, and the scent of olive trees filled our senses. The large reflecting pool offered a stunning view of the Atlas Mountains in the distance, their peaks dusted with snow. It was truly a sight to behold. Aisha was fascinated by the olive harvesting taking place. She kept asking questions about how the olives were grown and processed. I tried my best to explain, drawing from my own childhood experiences of helping my grandmother harvest fruits in Senegal. We strolled through the olive groves, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The gardens offered a perfect opportunity for reflection and appreciation of nature's beauty.

Explore the serene Menara Gardens in Marrakesh, a historic park featuring olive groves, stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Explore the serene Menara Gardens in Marrakesh, a historic park featuring olive groves, stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like a quiet walk through a garden or a shared meal with loved ones.


Next on our itinerary was the Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam. This park offered a unique blend of technology and nature, with interactive kiosks and lush greenery. Aisha was thrilled to discover the park's internet access points, and she spent some time video-calling her cousins back in Germany. It was fascinating to see how technology could be integrated seamlessly into such a serene environment. I appreciated the park's commitment to eco-friendly practices, such as recycling plant waste and using an environmentally friendly irrigation system. It was a reminder of the importance of sustainability and responsible tourism. We explored the rose garden, admiring the vibrant colors and fragrant perfumes of the roses. The park provided a perfect setting for relaxation and contemplation, a welcome contrast to the bustling medina.

Explore the serene beauty of Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam in Marrakech, where history meets modern technology amidst lush gardens.
Explore the serene beauty of Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam in Marrakech, where history meets modern technology amidst lush gardens.

For lunch, we chose Cuisine De Terroir, a restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including couscous, tagine, and soups. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the culinary traditions of Morocco. Aisha particularly enjoyed the chicken tagine with olives and preserved lemons. Hans, ever the adventurous eater, tried the harira soup, a traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas. I savored the couscous, reminiscing about the similar dishes my mother used to make back in Senegal. The meal was a true culinary journey, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of Moroccan gastronomy.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cuisine De Terroir in the heart of Marrakesh's Medina - a culinary journey you won't forget.
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cuisine De Terroir in the heart of Marrakesh's Medina - a culinary journey you won't forget.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to La Mamounia for dinner. This iconic hotel is renowned for its luxurious ambiance and exceptional dining experiences. The gardens were beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. We dined at one of the hotel's restaurants, savoring a delectable meal of Moroccan specialties. The service was impeccable, and the attention to detail was remarkable. Aisha was particularly impressed by the elegant setting and the attentive staff. It felt like a truly special occasion, a perfect way to celebrate our time in Marrakech.

Experience unmatched luxury at La Mamounia in Marrakesh – where timeless elegance meets vibrant culture.
Experience unmatched luxury at La Mamounia in Marrakesh – where timeless elegance meets vibrant culture.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Le Bar Majorelle, located within La Mamounia. This bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails. The bar's decor was inspired by the famous painter Jacques Majorelle, with bold colors and intricate patterns. We sipped on refreshing cocktails, enjoying the lively music and the convivial atmosphere. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the city. Aisha, of course, opted for a non-alcoholic mocktail, which she declared was the best drink she had ever tasted. The bar provided a perfect setting for people-watching and soaking in the energy of Marrakech's nightlife.

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Bar Majorelle, a chic Moroccan bar offering exquisite cocktails and an inviting atmosphere in the heart of Marrakech.
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Bar Majorelle, a chic Moroccan bar offering exquisite cocktails and an inviting atmosphere in the heart of Marrakech.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our family adventure in Marrakech. We plan to visit the Moulay al-Yazid Mosque and the Royal Palace, immersing ourselves further in the city's rich history and culture. We'll also be having breakfast at La Grande Table Marocaine, lunch at Stah Marrakech, and dinner at Dar Justo. Before heading to the airport, we plan to visit Boutique EL Fenn, a shop known for its unique collection of Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. It's hard to believe our trip is coming to an end. It’s been such a wonderful experience, filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable memories. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with my family, and I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm struck by the beauty and diversity of Marrakech. From the serene gardens to the exquisite cuisine, the city offers a sensory feast that captivates the soul. It's a place where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony, creating a unique and unforgettable travel experience. I'm so glad that I was able to share this with Hans and Aisha. I hope that our journey inspires others to explore the world and embrace the richness of different cultures.
Go to day 7 A Day of Tranquility and Treasures in Marrakech
Go to day 9 A Farewell to Marrakech: Reflecting on a Family Adventure
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Family Adventure in the Heart of Marrakech

Join us on a family journey to Marrakech for a blend of cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation in the heart of Morocco.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Ndeye Fatou Ndiaye
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Translator (French/Wolof to German)
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 38

Bonjour! I'm Ndeye Fatou Ndiaye, a Senegalese transplant living in beautiful Heidelberg, Germany. As a freelance translator, I've always been fascinated by language and culture. My passion for exploring new places led me to start this travel blog, where I share my adventures, insights, and tips with fellow travel enthusiasts. Join me as I traverse the globe with my family, seeking out authentic experiences and promoting cultural understanding along the way. From the vibrant streets of Dakar to the charming villages of Europe, I'm here to inspire you to embrace diversity and embark on your own unforgettable journeys. Welcome to my little corner of the internet!

Interests:
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • Linguistics
  • Global Cuisine
  • Photography
  • Sustainable Tourism
More about Ndeye Fatou Ndiaye

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