Exploring the Enchanting City of Marrakech with Friends

A Day of Sands and Stars

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty just outside Marrakech and savoring the city's luxurious tastes. Leaving the familiar comforts of the TUI BLUE Medina Gardens – Adults Only – All Inclusive, I was ready for a day that promised both adventure and relaxation. It's amazing how quickly the landscape transforms from bustling city to serene desert.


Experience a luxurious adults-only retreat in Marrakesh with all-inclusive amenities, stunning gardens, and proximity to iconic attractions.

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Fuelling up for the adventures ahead is always a good idea, especially when a camel ride is involved. Lena always jokes that I need extra fuel for any activity involving animals, remembering that donkey ride in Portugal that nearly ended with me tumbling off! Today, I was joined by my friends for a camel ride through the Agafay Desert, which was the first stop on our itinerary.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Agafay Desert near Marrakech, where adventure and tranquility meet in a stunning landscape.

The drive to the Agafay Desert was an experience in itself. The ochre landscape, dotted with small Berber villages, unfolded before us. The weather in Marrakech in March is ideal. Daytime highs are usually between 21 and 26°C (70 and 79°F), so you can easily get around in a T-shirt or flowing dress and be completely comfortable. While March is one of the wettest months in Marrakech, rainfall is still minimal. As we drove, I reflected on how different this landscape is from Heidelberg, with its lush green forests. It reminded me of the stark beauty of the Alentejo region in Portugal, where the landscape has a charm all its own.

Once we arrived, the vast expanse of the Agafay Desert greeted us. Unlike the sandy Sahara, Agafay is a rocky desert, but it possesses a unique, almost lunar beauty. The rolling hills and stark terrain were mesmerizing. It was time for our camel ride! I must admit, I still feel a bit awkward mounting these gentle giants, but their calm demeanor always puts me at ease. The rhythmic sway of the camel was surprisingly soothing as we trekked through the desert. The views were simply breathtaking, with the Atlas Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. I could almost imagine myself as a desert nomad, traversing this ancient landscape. My friends were having a great time, laughing and taking photos, capturing the surreal beauty of the desert. Sofia would have loved this, I thought, picturing her wide-eyed with wonder.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like the gentle sway of a camel beneath a vast, open sky.

After our desert adventure, it was time for lunch. We headed to La Table du Riad, a restaurant I had heard so much about. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Medina, this place is a true gem. The ambiance was intimate and inviting, with only a handful of tables. The décor was a beautiful blend of traditional Moroccan and contemporary styles. It felt like stepping into another world. The service was impeccable, and the staff were incredibly attentive.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Table du Riad in Marrakesh's enchanting Medina.

We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, each bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The tagine that followed was simply divine – tender meat, infused with aromatic spices, and served with fluffy couscous. Every bite was a culinary revelation. I appreciated the restaurant's commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients, reflecting my own passion for sustainable living. The meal was a true celebration of Moroccan gastronomy. Lena would have adored this place, I mused, knowing her appreciation for exquisite cuisine and elegant settings. I made a mental note to bring her here on our next visit.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Kosybar Marrakech (Restaurant Bar & Spa) for a relaxing drink. Located in the heart of the Medina, this bar offers stunning views of the city. The atmosphere was relaxed and sophisticated, with a mix of locals and tourists. We ordered some cocktails and settled in to watch the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, painting the city in hues of orange, pink, and gold. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the vibrant fusion of Moroccan and Japanese cuisine at Kosybar Marrakech, a relaxing lounge and spa in the heart of the city.

Kosybar was the ideal place to unwind after a day of desert exploration and culinary indulgence. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Medina, we sipped our drinks and shared stories of the day's adventures. The bar's location offered a unique vantage point, with views of the El Badi Palace and the Koutoubia Mosque.

For dinner, we had reservations at La Grande Table Marocaine, known as one of the best restaurants in Marrakech, located in the Royal Mansour. The hotel itself is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture and design. Every detail, from the intricate mosaics to the lush gardens, exuded luxury and elegance. The restaurant was no exception. The ambiance was opulent and romantic, with soft lighting and traditional Moroccan music.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors in an exquisite setting at La Grande Table Marocaine in Marrakech's luxurious Hôtel Royal Mansour.

The menu was a showcase of Moroccan cuisine at its finest. We opted for the tasting menu, which allowed us to sample a variety of dishes. Each course was a work of art, both in terms of presentation and flavor. The chef's innovative use of traditional ingredients was truly impressive. From the delicate pastilla to the succulent lamb tagine, every dish was a culinary masterpiece. The service was attentive and impeccable, making us feel like royalty.

La Grande Table Marocaine was an unforgettable dining experience. The combination of exquisite cuisine, luxurious ambiance, and impeccable service made it a highlight of our trip. It was a true celebration of Moroccan culture and gastronomy. As we savored the last bite of our dessert, I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude.

As I reflect on today, I’m struck by the incredible diversity of experiences Marrakech offers. From the stark beauty of the Agafay Desert to the refined elegance of La Grande Table Marocaine, this city is a feast for the senses. It’s a place where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, where we'll be diving into the heart of Moroccan cuisine with a cooking class with Chef Khmisa and exploring the House of Photography. It’s these kinds of experiences that make travel so enriching, reminding me of the importance of embracing new cultures and perspectives. And, of course, sharing these moments with friends makes it all the more special. It reinforces my belief that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about creating lasting memories and connecting with others.

Back at the TUI BLUE Medina Gardens, I'm ready for a good night's sleep, dreaming of tagines and desert stars. Tomorrow promises another day filled with culture and culinary delights. Marrakech, you continue to enchant me!