Exclusive: The Ultimate Winter Sun Weekend in Marrakech at 21°C
Are you searching for some late winter sun to brighten up the colder months? This vibrant Moroccan city should be at the very top of your travel list for an unforgettable exploration. With its magnificent palaces, stunning botanical gardens, and bustling traditional souks, Marrakech offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. Whether you are seeking a spot of winter warmth or aiming to soak up rich heritage later in the year, you certainly will not be disappointed. Visitors are often surprised by the sheer abundance of attractions available – in fact, the only real challenge might be finding enough time to experience everything this captivating destination has to offer.
Where to Stay in Marrakech: Tarabel Marrakech
Hidden down a discreet alleyway, you would never stumble upon Tarabel Marrakech unless you knew it was there, making it an ideal sanctuary for rest and relaxation after a full day of sightseeing. Upon arrival, guests step into a charming courtyard filled with fragrant orange trees and are warmly welcomed with fresh mint tea accompanied by delicious local biscuits. Appearances can be deceptive – while the riad might seem compact, it actually features three hidden courtyards and cosy alcoves perfect for unwinding. One standout feature is a cleverly designed mirror that opens to reveal a luxurious hammam and spa, where you can indulge in a well-deserved massage or rejuvenating facial treatment.
The hotel comprises just ten individually designed rooms and suites, ensuring peace and tranquillity are guaranteed throughout your stay. If you can manage to pull yourself away from your comfortable room, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or recline in the sun on one of several picturesque roof terraces. Although the hotel does not have a formal restaurant, it boasts a dedicated kitchen team ready to ensure you sample the very best culinary delights Marrakech has to offer. We enjoyed a romantic candlelit dinner on one of the many terraces, which served as the perfect start to our trip. Our three-course Moroccan meal was bursting with authentic flavours, beginning with a trio of fresh salads and sweet meat samosas before tucking into a succulent chicken tagine infused with citrus. To finish, we savoured a heavenly molten chocolate cake accompanied by sliced oranges dusted with cinnamon.
The kitchen is also open for lunch, but it was the breakfast that truly stole the show – we still reminisce about the fluffy pancakes drizzled with honey and fresh fruit juice, served in the gentle warmth of the morning sun on the roof terrace.
What to Do in Marrakech: Top Attractions
As first-time visitors to Marrakech, we had a long list of spots we wanted to explore, but with just two days to pack it all in, we had to be decisive. Just a five-minute walk from the hotel and amidst the lively hustle and bustle of the medina lies Le Jardin Secret, a small yet stunning garden filled with exotic plants from across the continent. Be sure to pause and spend a few tranquil moments under the elegant pergola situated at the centre of the gardens.
If you have a passion for fashion, then a visit to Le Jardin Majorelle and the adjacent Yves Saint Laurent Museum is absolutely essential. The garden is an oasis of calm that will have you stopping to capture photos at every turn. Make sure to book tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment and secure an early time slot to steer clear of the crowds.
For architecture enthusiasts, Bahia Palace is an absolute must-see. You will be utterly blown away by the stunning tile designs adorning the floors and walls, along with the beautifully painted ceilings and ornate wooden doors. However, our personal favourite spot was the Dar El Bacha Museum, located just minutes away from Tarabel. Set back from the main street, you will be left open-mouthed as you step into the courtyard, featuring intricate tiled floors, a hand-painted ceiling, and a serene garden full of pomegranate trees.
Stop for a refreshing drink at Bacha Coffee, which is cleverly hidden inside the museum – though be warned, you might have to wait a while for a seat due to its popularity.
Finally, you simply cannot spend time in Marrakech without exploring the legendary souk. The narrow alleyways are lined with small shops selling everything from exquisite jewellery and leather goods to aromatic spices and colourful rugs. It is a true visual feast, and you can easily lose hours meandering through this vibrant marketplace.
Hidden Hotspot: Ice Mamman
One of our favourite discoveries while exploring the city was Ice Mamman. Once you have finished haggling in the souks or simply feel tired from a day of exploration, this ice cream parlour with a roof terrace offers everything from refreshing sorbets and tasty snacks to smoothies for you to enjoy. The winning flavour has to be the rich chocolate ice cream – absolutely delicious and the perfect treat to cool down.
How Much Does It Cost?
Rooms at Tarabel Marrakech cost approximately €350 per night, including a delightful breakfast. Marrakech is well-served by direct flights with major airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, TUI, and WIZZ Air from various locations across the United Kingdom, as well as Aer Lingus and Ryanair from Ireland, making it an accessible and convenient destination for a winter sun escape.
