Where to stay in Marrakech Safi

Located in the vibrant heart of Morocco, the Marrakech-Safi region offers a harmonious blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication. This region is like a mosaic of vibrant colours, aromatic spices and melodious sounds. It offers a refuge where time seems to slow down and invites you to immerse yourself in the secrets of Moroccan culture.

The city of Marrakech is, of course, the protagonist of the Marrakech-Safi region. To facilitate your search, we have compiled a list of the best and most charming hotels in Marrakech, including the best riads in Marrakech, all located in the heart of the historic medina. They are all run by charming hosts who put the well-being of their guests first.

A little further afield, the tranquil coast of Essaouira promises a refreshing contrast. This is where the gentle sound of the Atlantic welcomes visitors with an open heart, while the blend of Portuguese, French and Berber architecture creates a diverse picture of cultural fusion. Enjoy the delicious fresh seafood on offer here - a real treat for the senses. We recommend staying in one of our Essaouira riads in the heart of the medina, which combine high-end living comfort with a deep immersion in the local culture.

No trip to the Marrakech-Safi region would be complete without a trip to the High Atlas Mountains, where the scenic Amizmiz trail offers hikers panoramic views of spectacular vistas and verdant valleys dotted with traditional Berber villages. We've selected a number of charming riads in the outskirts of Marrakech and luxurious kasbahs in the Atlas Mountains for you to enjoy.

This vibrant region, where tradition meets modernity, promises not only a feast for the senses but also a relaxing retreat for the soul.

What to do in the Marakech-Safi region

Marrakech is an excellent starting point for a variety of activities. Those who long for peace and nature after days of hustle and bustle in the city do not have far to go. The imposing Atlas Mountains rise near the southeast of the city. The lush green foothills invite visitors to go hiking or mountaineering, as the Toubkal is the highest mountain in North Africa at 4,167 meters. So it's no wonder that you can ski or snowboard in Morocco. In the High Atlas, the ski resort of Oukaïmeden attracts winter sports enthusiasts.

If you want to go just as high, but without snow, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains. In the High Atlas rises the Dadès, a river that has formed the Dadès valley: impressive rock formations, canyons, gorges and the oasis of Skoura! In the southwest of the Western High Atlas National Park, another natural wonder awaits you: the waterfalls of Ouzoud.

The Atlas Mountains are home to towns and villages that you must see to get a sense of Morocco's rich history. In the small mountain village of Imlil, in the center of the High Atlas in the province of Al Haouz, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time.

The town of Asni is also enthroned in the mountains, amidst dense nature, as if it had always been there.

A trip to the sea: Essaouira

From Marrakech, you can also take day trips to the cities along the Atlantic coast. For example, to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, or to the beautiful coastal towns of Essaouira or El Jadida.

The gateway to the desert

Marrakech is an excellent starting point for a desert excursion. The desert of Merzouga with its famous sand dunes or the somewhat stonier deserts of Agafay and Zagora unleash the magic of the landscape, whether on camelback, quad or off-road vehicle - you have to experience the sunrise and sunset and the starry sky once in the desert!

The perfect start for day trips

If you're planning a trip to the Sahara, stop first at two places that make excellent day-trip destinations: the magnificent town of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the backdrop for The Mummy or Game of Thrones, among others. The city of Quarzazate at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, a former French garrison town, may seem a bit plain compared to Marrakech or Fez, but Ouarzazate also has an authenticity that has attracted many famous filmmakers. The breathtaking desert landscape has served as the backdrop for films such as Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator, and even Star Wars was filmed here.