Apple Gardens

Things to Do

Marrakech

Djamaa El Fna - Medina

Djamaa el Fna or Jemaa el Fna is the main square in the Medina and will probably be the centre of much of your sightseeing. In the evening the square comes alive with food merchants, musicians, snake charmers, and sellers of everything from fruit to souvenirs.

The square is surrounded by a number of restaurants all with views out onto the square.  Leading off from the central medina is a maze of souks with all sorts of things for sale, from shoes and Tangine Crockery, to spices and delicious olives. Prices vary from stall to stall and it is always worth haggling. Fresh orange juice is a must try and is only 5 Dirham’s.

Majorelle Gardens

The Majorelle Gardens are nice and peaceful. It is in the middle of the city but once you get inside the doors of the gardens it feels like you are a million miles away. You cannot hear any of the traffic noise and it is very peaceful.

The gardens are a mix of exotic plants and flowers and you can easily stroll around them for an hour or two.

If you are in Marrakech then you must visit these gardens and appreciate the amount of work that has gone into creating them.

El Bahia Palace

During the 1900’s, the French conquered Marrakech and Marshal Lyautey used the Palace as his residence. During this time he chose to update and modernize the complex.

Decorations take the form of subtle stucco panels, zellij decorations, tiled floors, smooth arches, carved-cedar ceilings, shiny marble finishes and zouak painted ceilings.

Further Afield

Beach / Coast

Essaouira is a very charming resort on the Atlantic coast about two hours drive from the villa. It has a large beach, fronted with a few restaurants. It is often much cooler here compared to inland Marrakech and could be worth a visit on a hot day.

The road to Essaouira has been recently newly laid, making this a very comfortable trip to make.

Skiing

Morocco’s finest ski resort is located near to Marrakech and it boasts almost 12.5 miles of runs. The surrounding scenery is awe-inspiring and Oukaimeden is a welcome change from the average European or American ski resort, being imbued with the exotic flavor of Africa. The resort has been popular with wealthy Moroccans for many years and it has developed into one of the country’s classiest winter destinations. Its proximity to Marrakech makes it conveniently accessible from the city and its mind-blowing off-piste options will keep powder fans happy for days on end. The slopes are served by seven chairlifts, including the continents highest at 10,734 feet.

The skiing season is very short from Mid December to Mid April. However it is very variable. Snow conditions can be found at a selection of website.

Atlas Mountains

The Higher Atlas Mountains has one road pass; this road is the link between Marrakech and the south of Morocco. Apple Gardens in just 1 hour from the summit called the Tizi-n-Test Pass which is the highest road in the whole of Africa at 2092 meters.  On some days the pass is above the clouds, and there can also be snow on occasions. Whatever the time of year, you will definitely notice a change in temperature as you make your way through the Mountains.

This is well worth a trip if you are looking for some breath taking views. There are also a selection of small gift shops and cafes on the route.