Souks, Snow Peaks and Atlantic Surf

Marrakech, with its colourful souks, traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, surrounded by the Atlas Mountains and the desert, is the perfect introduction to Morocco. Sample delicious freshly-made snacks in the main square and hub of the city, Jemaa al Fna, before venturing into the souks fringing its edge, whose stalls are piled high with everything from tagines and spices to carpets, wooden carvings of animals and intricate jewellery, in every colour and style.

A tranquil oasis amongst the hustle and bustle, beautiful Jardin Majorelle is the retreat of fashion designer Yves St Laurent, whose artistic and creative eye can clearly be seen here as you wander among tropical flowers, towering trees and sculptures, with splashes of signature blue.

Stay at Riad dar Anika, a boutique riad right in the heart of the medina – perfect for shopping and exploring in the heart of Marrakech. Relax on the roof terrace with a refreshing cocktail, looking out over the city and the mountains beyond.

From Marrakech, we’ll whisk you away to the Ourika Valley in the Atlas Mountains, less than an hour from the centre of Marrakech, yet a world away from city life. Here, in a dramatic setting, Kasbah Bab Ourika makes the perfect hideaway from which to explore Berber villages and markets, trek into the mountains with a picnic lunch and relax by the pool, while enjoying postcard-perfect sunsets and delicious cuisine beneath starry night skies.

Inspired by traditional Berber style, the interiors of Kasbah Bab Ourika feature natural earth colours and stone fireplaces to cosy up to on cooler evenings, while your private terrace has panoramic views over the olive groves, fragrant orange and lemon trees, the river and the snow-capped mountains.

From the mountains to the sea: the fishing port of Essaouira has an attractive laidback charm and a welcome cooling breeze that makes it a draw for keen windsurfers. With whitewashed buildings lining the shore, a UNESCO-listed medina, a busy square, bustling fish markets and an eighteenth-century fortress, there is plenty to explore. As well as sampling the irresistibly fresh seafood, you could try your hand at windsurfing like the locals, or go horse riding along the beach. The place to be at sunset is on the historic ramparts, for the best views.

Your riad hotel, Villa Maroc, is a haven of white and blue, with gorgeous sea vistas and a charming roof terrace.