Places To Visit In Morocco
Our selection of 'must see' sights.
Ourika Valley
There are few areas in Morocco so green and lush as the Ourika valley. A string of interesting villages run along the rapid flowing river Ourika, and, in summer, its cool fresh air offers a welcome respite from the searing heat of Marrakech city.
The Ourika valley road winds through the Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the highest peak, Mount Toubkal (4,165 metres, 13,665 feet) and eventually leads to the seven waterfalls of Setti Fatma, one of the Atlas Mountains' most hidden treasures.
Bioaromatic Gardens of Nectarome
In the foothills of the High Atlas, along the Ourika valley, lie Morocco's first Aromatherapy gardens, where regional herbs and plants are used to produce exceptional aromatherapy products. The garden is a haven of perfumes and peace, where you can walk along pathways through aromatic and medicinal plants, roses, herbs and trees.
Here you can purchase a wide range of natural beauty and health products including the unique Moroccan Argan oil, which is increasingly recognised for its exceptional skin treatment properties.
Menara Gardens
Known locally as the most romantic place for young couples to walk, the Menara Gardens, situated on the edge of Marrakech, provide a beautiful escape from the summer heat of the city. Orchards, olive groves, palms and roses, as well as Marrakech's most photographed landmark - the lake and pavilion, built in the mid 19th century by Sultan Adu r-Rahman, against the magnificent backdrop of the Atlas Mountains.
The Medina
The ancient narrow streets of the Medina, built over 1000 years ago, which can only be navigated on foot, lead the visitor through a labyrinth of fascinating houses, riads, shops and restaurants.
Jemaa el Fna and the Souk
The bustling central square of Jemaa el Fna, where local people gather to listen to storytellers, watch performers and to buy fresh mint to make tea. The square leads in to Marrakech's famous Souk, whose meandering streets are lined with the vibrant colours of shoes, scarves, lanterns and rugs. Haggling to get the best price becomes an art form, the traders do not hassle you and the experience is a complete pleasure.
Majorelle Gardens
As a former French colony, Morocco illustrates many facets of the culture and vision of its European occupiers. The French artist Jacques Majorelle designed the Majorelle Gardens in the 1920s, which offer an oasis of lush green vegetation within the pink sandy city of Marrakech. He laid out extensive walled gardens with exotic local plants and trees, and he built bridges, ponds and small buildings from where to view the fantastic colours.
