Exploring the Charms of Marrakech with Friends

A Day of Discovery in the Red City

Marrakech, a city that dances between ancient history and modern vibrancy, truly captivated me today. With my friends, I set out to explore some of its most treasured landmarks, each telling a story of dynasties, secrets, and breathtaking beauty. It was a day filled with awe, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for Moroccan culture.

Our day began with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira. The cozy ambiance and colorful interior were so inviting. I decided on the harira soup, a flavorful blend of lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, which was the perfect way to start the day. My friends tried the bastela, a sweet and savory pastry filled with chicken and almonds, and the tagine. We all agreed that the food was delicious and the service was outstanding.


Experience the true taste of Morocco at Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Bahia Palace: A Glimpse into Opulence

Our first stop was the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece intended to be the most impressive palace of its time. As we wandered through its vast courtyards and intricate rooms, I couldn't help but imagine the opulent lives of the grand viziers who once resided here. The palace, whose name means brilliance, certainly lived up to its name. Although the rooms are mostly empty now, the intricate stucco work, zellij mosaic floors, and painted cedar ceilings spoke volumes of the craftsmanship and artistry of Moroccan artisans.


Discover the beauty of Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark showcasing Moroccan architecture and lush gardens.

The sheer scale of the palace was impressive, boasting eight hectares and 150 rooms leading to various patios and gardens. I was particularly drawn to the serene courtyards, where the play of light and shadow created a tranquil atmosphere. It was easy to get lost in the beauty of the palace, imagining the lavish celebrations and important meetings that once took place within its walls.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must immerse themselves in its history and art, for they are the mirrors reflecting the soul of a nation.

Saadian Tombs: A Hidden Necropolis

Next, we ventured to the Saadian Tombs, a historic royal necropolis dating back to the Saadian dynasty. The tombs, hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917, offered a fascinating glimpse into Morocco's past. As we entered the complex, I was immediately struck by the serene beauty and harmony of the site. The intricate details of the mausoleums, adorned with colorful tiles and delicate carvings, paid tribute to the splendor of the Saadi Dynasty.


Discover the Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark revealing the grandeur of Morocco's royal past through stunning architecture and rich history.

The tombs serve as the final resting place for members of the Saadian dynasty, including Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur. The Hall of Prayer, where the Sultan himself is buried, was particularly awe-inspiring. The vibrant tiles and inscriptions on the walls created a visual spectacle, reflecting the opulence of the Saadian era. It was a humbling experience to walk through these sacred spaces, contemplating the lives and legacies of those who came before us. My friend Jasmine, who is a history enthusiast, was particularly captivated by the Saadian Tombs, sparking a lively discussion about Moroccan dynasties and their impact on the country's cultural heritage. We learned that the Saadian Dynasty wasn't actually called 'Saadi'; in fact, this was a derogatory nickname used by the family's enemies.

Le Jardin Secret: An Oasis of Tranquility

Our final stop of the day was Le Jardin Secret, a hidden oasis in the heart of the bustling Medina. As we stepped through the unassuming entrance, we were transported to a world of tranquility and beauty. The garden, with origins dating back over 400 years, has been home to some of Marrakech's most important political figures.


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.

Le Jardin Secret is divided into two main sections: an Exotic Garden and an Islamic Garden. The Exotic Garden featured sculptural drought-resistant plants from around the world, while the Islamic Garden showcased the principles of a traditional Islamic garden, with fig, olive, date palm, and pomegranate trees. The scent of rosemary, lavender, jasmine, and roses filled the air, creating a wonderfully fragrant and peaceful atmosphere.

We explored the garden's hidden corners, admiring the intricate tile work and the play of light and shadow. We even took a break at the garden's cafe, sipping on traditional Moroccan mint tea and soaking in the serene surroundings. It was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Medina.

One thing I've learned is to not visit more than two gardens in one day otherwise the third will inevitably have the least of your attention. Fortunately, Le Jardin Secret was the perfect way to end our day.

BlackChich: A Vegan Lunch

For lunch, we headed to BlackChich, a vegan-friendly restaurant that offered a magnificent view from the rooftop. Although the vegan options were limited, I enjoyed a delicious couscous and a refreshing fresh juice. The rooftop setting provided a welcome escape from the crowded streets below, allowing us to relax and recharge before continuing our exploration.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Africa at BlackChich - where traditional meets contemporary in every delicious bite.

Le Foundouk: A Culinary Delight

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Le Foundouk for dinner, a fine dining spot known for its delicious Moroccan cuisine and beautiful ambiance. The restaurant, located in the heart of the Medina, was a bit tricky to find, but the effort was well worth it. The multi-level interior, designed with Arabic charm, created a cozy and refined atmosphere. We opted for the rooftop terrace, which offered a spectacular view of the city.


Experience exquisite Moroccan-French cuisine at Le Foundouk in Marrakesh's Medina, where vibrant flavors meet elegant ambiance.

The menu at Le Foundouk featured a variety of Moroccan and French dishes. For starters, we shared a selection of Moroccan salads, each bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. For the main course, I chose the tagine, a slow-cooked stew with tender meat and aromatic spices. My friends tried the confit lamb with garlic and saffron, which they raved about. To end the meal, we indulged in the saffron creme brulee and the pistachio creme brulee, both of which were heavenly.

Le Salama Sky-bar: A Nightcap with a View

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Le Salama Sky-bar for a nightcap. The rooftop bar offered stunning views of the city, and the atmosphere was lively and exciting. We sipped on signature cocktails, enjoying the cool breeze and the vibrant energy of Marrakech at night. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome and comfortable.


Discover the enchanting Le Salama Sky-bar in Marrakech, where stunning views meet exquisite Moroccan cuisine and a vibrant social atmosphere.

As we sat there, reflecting on the day's adventures, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Marrakech with my friends. It was a day filled with history, beauty, and unforgettable moments.

Tomorrow's Adventures

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Jardin Majorelle, Musée Berbère Jardin Majorelle, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. I'm particularly excited about visiting Jardin Majorelle, as I've heard it's a stunning botanical garden with vibrant colors and unique plant species. We're also planning to do some shopping at 33 RUE MAJORELLE.

Our culinary adventure will continue with breakfast at Bazaar Cafe, lunch at Dar Moha, and dinner at Chez Ali - Fantasia Marrakech. I'm especially looking forward to Chez Ali - Fantasia Marrakech, as it promises to be a unique dining experience with traditional Moroccan entertainment.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” I can't wait to share more stories from this incredible journey.

Until next time,
Patricia