Morocco

Morocco – quite simply an immediate, exciting immersion into another world. Here, Arab and Berber heritage and culture mix, and a sense of the exotic and extraordinary makes for an extremely alluring experience. With plentiful direct flights from the UK, a beautiful climate, and the diversity offered by attractive fishing villages on the coast, bustling souks and medinas in the imperial cities, the spectacular Atlas mountains and the golden sands of the Sahara desert, Morocco is an excellent choice for a complete change of scene without a long-haul flight.

	Magical Marrakech, where life revolves around the Djemaa el-Fna square with its fire-eaters and snake charmers mesmerising crowds of onlookers, locals and tourists alike, is just intoxicating. The souq is world famous, but there are beautiful quiet corners too. Choose to stay in a riad, one of the intimate oases within the walls of the ancient old town, or a larger brand hotel, take one of our excellent local guides for an insider’s look at the city, and of course feast on a tagine or two.
	The stunning Atlas Mountains are the snow-capped backdrop to Marrakech, and make a perfect combination with the hubbub of the city. Enjoy a hike in the mountains, visit a local Berber village for a traditional tea, and take in the starkly beautiful scenery.
	Continue further south to some of the finest desert scenery anywhere in the world, with luxury lodges, or desert camps to stay in, all in the shadow of the dunes of the Southern Desert and under the unpolluted star-filled skies.
	Essaouira, on the largely unspoilt Atlantic coastline, is a picturesque port with a wide and windswept beach that is a mecca for kite and wind surfers alike. A traditional fishing port way of life mixes with Portuguese fortifications and narrow streets filled with artisan craft shops.
	The Imperial Cities of Fez, Rabat and Meknes, have all been the capital of Morocco at one time or another and are a joy to discover, with a wealth of gardens, palaces and mazes of medieval streets to explore. Be sure to take home some of the famous leather goods or moccasins.