Each visit to Morocco reveals something new to me. This is a country with one foot in its African roots and one drawn toward Europe, a place of contrast that makes it endlessly compelling. The scent of orange blossom on the morning air, the calm of a walled riad after the energy of the medina, the hands of artisans practising crafts passed down through generations. Join me as we travel through Morocco's imperial cities and quiet valleys, seeking out its history, its craft and its emerging design scene, while sourcing new inspiration for Garden Life along the way.
Richard Unsworth
Itinerary
Days 1 & 2
Casablanca to Rabat
On arrival into Casablanca we are met by private chauffeur and driven the short distance to Rabat. The rest of the day is left at leisure, time to settle in and recover from the journey, with the option to explore the capital independently.
The following morning, after breakfast, we meet our specialist guide for a historical tour of this imposing imperial city, one often overlooked by visitors to Morocco. Its medina streets are relaxed and unhurried, a gentle introduction to the country. Highlights include the Chellah, a Roman and medieval ruin wrapped in gardens where storks nest in the towers, and the Andalusian Gardens near the Kasbah des Oudayas, a small and tranquil retreat. We visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern Art, before wandering the blue and white streets of the Kasbah des Oudayas itself, where ocean views meet artist studios tucked into the old walls. In Rabat we stay at Villa Mandarine.
Days 3 & 4
Tangier
We travel north to the coastal city of Tangier along the Atlantic highway, stopping in the sleepy fishing town of Asilah for a seafood lunch. Tangier carries a history of faded glamour, its laid back, bohemian character having once drawn writers, artists and designers from Matisse to the Beat poets. We visit the private garden of Italian horticulturalist and writer Umberto Pasti, before winding through the streets of the old medina to the ancient Kasbah, perched high above the ocean. Here dramatic views open up where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, taking in the Caves of Hercules and the scenic Cape Spartel lighthouse. The remainder of the afternoon is left at leisure, time to take in the views or sip mint tea in a neighbourhood cafe. In Tangier we stay at Villa Mabrouka, owned and re-imagined by British design icon Jasper Conran and the former holiday home of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé.
Days 5, 6 & 7
Fez
We continue to Fez, the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco, travelling through the scenic valleys of the Rif Mountains. En route we stop in Chefchaouen, the captivating blue washed mountain town, spending the morning wandering its indigo hued streets and relaxing in the central plaza before lunch. We arrive into Fez by late afternoon, watching the landscape shift as we near our riad.
Fez is a city experienced with every sense. We explore the UNESCO listed Fes El Bali, one of the best preserved medieval cities anywhere, a sprawling labyrinth of living history, along with the tanneries, unforgettable in every way, and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts. We visit the Medersa Bou Inania and the Fondouk el Nejjarine for their architecture, take in the striking brass gates of the royal palace, and stroll through the historic Mellah, the old Jewish Quarter, watching artisans practise crafts passed down through generations. The peaceful, palm lined Jnan Sbil Garden offers a quiet escape from the medina.
A full day is left free to rest or explore Fez at your own pace, with the option of a full day excursion to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO listed site known for its beautifully preserved mosaics, followed by a visit to the neighbouring imperial city of Meknes. In Fez we stay at Riad Amani.
Days 8 & 9
Ourika Valley
This is the slower chapter of the journey. To minimise travel time we take a short domestic flight to Marrakech, transferring out of the city and into the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, where we check into Kasbah Bab Ourika, our home for two nights.
This eco lodge sits among olive groves, rosemary hedges and citrus trees, with water rills running through the grounds, a genuine haven after the energy of the imperial cities. Days here are unstructured, with time to relax by the pool, take a treatment in the spa, or simply do nothing at all. For those who wish to be more active, a gentle hike through the surrounding hillsides and National Park offers a glimpse of Berber village life and a slower, older way of living. In the Ourika Valley we stay at Kasbah Bab Ourika.
Days 10, 11 & 12
Marrakech
We farewell the mountains and drive into Marrakech, known locally as Kech. Here we explore the city's celebrated gardens, including the Majorelle and the neighbouring private garden of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, alongside the Musée YSL and its surrounding shops. We also visit the Jardin Secret, restored by British designer Tom Stuart Smith, with the possibility of a private garden visit hosted by French expatriate designer Valentin.
We are guided through the spice markets and the bustling energy of the souks, sampling the traditional delights of slow cooked lamb along the way. A full day is left free, time to revisit a favourite corner of the medina, wander the alleyways, or seek out a particular area of interest.
In Marrakech we stay at Riad IZZA, a contemporary take on the traditional riad with its own restaurant and in house hammam, a haven amid the bustle beyond its walls.
Days 13
Departure
From here we say goodbye. We can arrange a road transfer back to Casablanca, onward travel to the seaside town of Essaouira, or an extended stay in Marrakech. Whatever your plans, we are happy to help arrange the logistics
Curated Stays
Each property has been chosen for its character, craftsmanship and sense of place.
Villa Mandarine, Rabat
2 nights
A tranquil garden retreat in the heart of the capital, offering an easy introduction to Morocco's blend of tradition and calm sophistication.
Villa Mabrouka, Tangier
2 nights
Once home to Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, this property channels the bohemian elegance for which Tangier is known.
Riad Amani, Fez
3 nights
A traditional riad at the heart of the old medina, offering quiet respite from the vibrant streets beyond its walls.
Kasbah Bab Ourika, Ourika Valley
2 nights
An eco lodge set among olive groves and rosemary hedges in the foothills of the High Atlas, designed for slowing down.
Riad IZZA, Marrakech
3 nights
A contemporary take on the traditional riad, with its own restaurant and hammam, a private haven amid the bustle of the city.
The Details
Guide
Richard Unsworth
Locations
Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Fez, Ourika Valley, Marrakech
Dates
15 to 27 May 2027
Duration
12 nights, 13 days
Group size
16 max.
Estimated cost
$22,000 per person, twin share
Single supplement $3,000
Inclusions
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All transfers and ground transport in VIP vehicles
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Tri lingual accompanied guide at all times Historical guides in each city
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Garden/Museum entry fees
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All meals and soft drinks with meals
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Accommodations as per itinerary
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All Gratuities for guides and drivers
Exclusions
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Miscellaneous extras - Spa Treatments etc.
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Alcohol
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Additional nights accommodation if required in Marrakech or Rabat at the start or conclusion of the trip
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Transfers if outside of the group arrival or departure dates
Upcoming trips
Morocco
United Kingdom
