An immersive journey from Marrakech to Skoura Oasis & beyond through homes of whimsical beauty
Morocco has an inexplicable allure. I have been in love with the country for a while and was happy to be back. I would be immersed in deep Morocco.
First, taking the south route to explore saffron fields, restored culture heritage, discover the Amazigh culture and more. Second, discovering breathtaking landscapes, oasis and kasbahs galore. I was in heaven.
From Marrakech to the south route…
Landing in Marrakech I was on the road at no time. The pink city would stay for my last days in the country. Time was on side. Yet, a stay outside Marrakech can be a very good introduction to the country and its hospitality. I would be facing a 4 hours drive to the oasis o Skoura.
Only 35 minutes drive from Marrakech, Kasbah Bab Ourika is a heaven of beauty and tranquility in the Atlas Mountains.
Portuguese hotelier Beatriz Maximo imprints her incomparable style and positive energy to all aspects of the experience here.
Her idyllic luxury hotel & yoga retreat has 41 gorgeous rooms with panoramic views of orange tree & rose gardens, and shooting stars.
Skoura Oasis – land of saffron, 1000 kasbahs and nomadic heritage
The Oasis of Skoura was as magical as I imagined. I visited the ruins of an ancient Jewish salt trade’s quarters, which was incredible! Cycled on endless palm grooves, meeting local people for a chat & tea.
One of my favourite stays was the private home of Beatriz Maximo. The boutique home Dar Faracha was a trove of berber ceramics, vintage furniture, stunning fabrics and cool artwork on walls. Inspiring and homey at the same time. Oh, and the black stone infinity pool was a refreshing respite from the heat.
Maison Rouge was another magical stop on the road to Skoura. The house can only be reached on foot, through the palm groves, vegetable gardens and a climb up the rocky hill. It was breathtakingly beautiful.
After visiting saffron producers for a cultural immersion, in a small community in the Ourika Valley, we had wonderful saffron tea and homemade biscuits. Time was still. It was blissful contemplation.
24 hours in Marrakech before departure
I only had 24 hours in the “pink city”. I missed you Marrakech, and it was nice to be back after such a long travel hiatus.
I was very lucky to discover a little jewel in the Medina. Riad L’Orangeraie is everything one thinks of when thinking of new hospitality: caring, bespoke, and attentive but with no frills.
At L’Orangeraie you can be immersed in the beautiful medina, yet be in an oasis of peace and style. Rooms are gorgeous and so is the service. And from the rooftop the views are endless.
I visited the nearby Le Jardin Secret, did a little walk around the souk, and then chilled by the riad’s pool. For the evening, I headed to another rooftop favourite of mine at El Fenn. Hence, after weeks of delicious food, I was ready for my El Fenn veggie burger & fries.
Marrakech has plenty of wonderful stays and places. How magical to wanderlust again!
Pictures by François Correia, Riad L’Orangeraie, Kasbah Bab Ourika, 700’000 heurs
