It’s not the things you take with you that define your journey; it’s the experiences you have and the memories you bring home. Director of Sales & Marketing and resident of Marrakech since 2010, Holger Frehde takes you on a tour of the experiences he cherishes most in the Red City. Here, he recommends five sensory “souvenirs” to take away from your visit.
The Aroma of Rich Moroccan Spices
For an authentic cultural and culinary experience, I suggest booking a food tasting tour. With so many delicious dishes from local vendors within the alleys of the Medina, you may not know where to start. Led by a guide, you’ll have the chance to encounter the people and culture of the Red City. They can explain the flavours of the region as you savour rich dishes like tagine, a spicy stew named for the clay pot it’s prepared in, and sip sweet Moroccan mint tea.
The Cinnamon Spice of Tarte Tatin at The Giant’s House
Immerse yourself in visual artist Jean-François Fourtou’s universe of unusual creations with a tour in his latest piece – The Giant’s House at Dar El Sadaka. The title frames the experience well; you can even sit on oversized chairs around the dinner table! I guarantee that Fourtou’s powerful imagination will take your breath away. You can't leave without tasting the giant Tarte Tatin pastry with almond ice cream, which is one of my favourites.
The Candied Sunset on a Hot Air Balloon
I have to admit that one of the most unforgettable moments in my life was floating over Marrakech in the cool morning breeze as I watched the magical sunrise of the Red City. Ciel d’Afrique sends up hot air balloons above the Atlas Mountains, and from that vantage point, you can admire the sun’s spectacular colours over the desert horizon. I recommend wrapping up your morning with a Berber-style breakfast of local delicacies after touching down.
The Rush of a Zipline Adventure in Terres d’Amnar
Just 20 minutes outside of the city, adventure park Terres d’Amanar gives you the chance to feel like Indiana Jones by trying acrobranching, ziplining, horse riding, biking or other adrenaline-rush activities. I suggest testing your limits with ziplining – all while being immersed in the richly verdant Asni area.
The Heart of Berber Life in the Imlil Valley
One of the ways I recommend learning about Berber culture is with a day trip to the Imlil Valley. Embrace the Berber lifestyle with a hike around the stunning Atlas Mountains and walk around the foothills of the canyon, all just an hour away from Marrakech. Our concierge can arrange a homemade Berber-style lunch in the home of a local or a visit to the argan oil cooperative – fully run by women.