Gardens of Marrakech

A SEVEN NIGHT HOLIDAY | 4 NOVEMBER 2023

Marrakech is an intoxicating destination for all the senses, and the city and its surroundings are also home to a number of remarkable gardens. In the company of expert horticulturist Kirsty Fergusson, we shall explore some of the finest – from the famous Jardins Majorelle created by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, to several private gardens which are not normally open to the public, as well as a day in the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Late Autumn is perfect for enjoying some warm Moroccan sunshine.

the itinerary

1

We fly to Marrakech and transfer to our hotel, the 4*Jardins’ de la Medina, 25 minutes’ walk from Djemaa El Fna square. Facilities include a restaurant, hammam and an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by tall palm trees and exotic plants.

2

Today we begin with a walking tour of the Medina. We will walk through a maze of narrow colourful streets, visiting the traditional market quarters of Marrakech. We will then visit Le Jardin Secret – a hidden garden designed by Tom Stuart-Smith in the heart of the old city, before stopping for lunch at Café Arabe.

3

This morning we visit the Bahia Royal Palace and its courtyard gardens. Built in the late 19th century, the sprawling palace is comprised of 150 rooms all richly decorated in traditional Moroccan style. We will also visit the stunning new Musee de l’Art de la Parure Dar Si Said museum which houses a private collection of jewellery, and richly adorned textiles from Morocco, Africa and the Middle East.

4

Our day trip to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains includes a visit to the gardens at Hotel La Roseraie, lunch and a private tour of the gardens at Olinto, designed by owner, Fabrizio Ruspoli.

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We visit Jardin Majorelle that was famously rescued from dereliction by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, now a splendid combination of careful planting and bold colour.We are also fortunate to be able to visit the adjoining garden of the Villa Oasis, where this celebrated couple lived. We then visit the stunning new Musée Yves Saint Laurent.

6

Travelling outside the city again, we head to Anima, the extraordinary garden made by Andre Heller, where there will be time to enjoy a delicious lunch in the café. We then continue to ‘Nectarome,’ a botanical garden which produces natural aromatic oils and the opportunity for a divinely soothing foot-bath.

7

This morning we visit the Thiemann Cactus Nursery. We will be met by Magde Thiemann who will give us an introduction to this inspiring collection, created by her father in the 1960s.

We drive to Marrakech airport for our flight home.

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DAY 8

Jardin Majorelle

TOUR INFORMATION

DEPARTURE DATE & PRICES

DATE PRICE SINGLE SUPP 4 November £3,897 £770

Our prices are per person, based on the shared occupancy of a twin/double room. Supplement for single occupancy as shown.

FLIGHT DETAILS

Flights with British Airways: Depart Heathrow 10.20, arrive Marrakech 15.05 Depart Marrakech 15.55, arrive Heathrow 18.40 Flight times subject to change – regional departures available on request.

WHAT WE INCLUDE

• Return flights to Marrakech • Seven nights’ accommodation with breakfast • Three lunches and three dinners • All entrances fees and gratuities as described • The services of a Kirker Tour Lecturer