Travel: 48 Hours in Marrakech

Published on Friday 6 November 2009 17:21

Friday, 12pm Depart London Gatwick.

3:25pm Arrive Marrakech.

5pm Check in to Dar Soukaina, a traditional riad set around a tranquil whitewashed courtyard. www.darsoukaina.com

6pm Take a 15-minute stroll through winding alleys to Djemaa el-Fna, the huge bustling square at the heart of the Medina, full of snake charmers, jugglers, musicians and storytellers.

7pm Pull up a seat at one of the food stalls in the middle of the square and tuck into an authentic kebab.

8pm Retreat to the breezy balcony of the Caf-Restaurant Argana, overlooking the square, for a mint tea and some ice cream.

Saturday, 9am Breakfast on Dar Soukaina's rooftop terrace.

10am Make your way to the labyrinthine souks, left, and haggle like you've never haggled before for carpets, slippers and jewellery. Either bring a map and compass or employ an accredited guide.

1:30pm Grab a quick lunch of shawarma (spit-grilled meat) at Fast Food al-Ahbab on the Rue de Bab Agnaou.

2pm Take a taxi to the tranquil Jardin Majorelle, owned by Yves Saint Laurent. It's also home to the excellent Museum of Islamic Art. See www.jardinmajorelle.com

7pm Enjoy a sumptuous four-course dinner at the Dar Marjana restaurant on Derb Sidi Ali Tair, accompanied by Gnawa musicians and the splashing of a fountain. www.darmarjanamarrakech.com

Sunday, 7am Depart Dar Soukaina.

8am Undergo a quick pummelling at the Hammam Hilton on Targa Road before heading to the airport.

10:50am Depart Marrakech.

3:50pm Arrive London Heathrow.

the facts Royal Air Maroc offers daily flights from London airports to Marrakech. Prices start at 145 return. For details, visit www.royalairmaroc.com

&#149 This article was first published in The Scotsman Magazine on 07/11/2009