Morocco overview

Just a four hour flight from the United Kingdom, Morocco encapsulates the exoticism of far more distant lands. The towering Rif and Atlas Mountains proved historically to be an impenetrable barrier to successive invaders, thereby preserving the lifestyle and language of an indigenous Berber population who have added a richness and unique cultural depth to this Mediterranean country.

Morocco is a mountainous and surprisingly green country of outstanding natural beauty, where the dazzling peaks of the Atlas, give way to the silent shifting sands of the Sahara desert, and the gently undulating hills of Eucalyptus and Argana trees succumb to long ribbons of golden sand on the Atlantic coast.

Riads

Within the walls of Morocco's ancient cities a large number of former Moroccan merchant's homes have been beautifully converted into small riads of great charm and character providing delightful retreats.

In a country where it is not acceptable for a rich man to flaunt his wealth, riads have a modest exterior. A covered passageway leads to an interior courtyard where silence is only broken by the sounds of a fountain in a central courtyard. Lounges and dining areas, open on one side, are built off the courtyard which is overlooked by the upper storeys onto whose suspended corridors the bedrooms open out. Roof terraces offer areas for dining al fresco, boasting great views into the medina below. To stay in a riad is to appreciate Moroccan hospitality at its very best and to enjoy a tantalising taste of a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Clothing

You'll need to be cool in the heat of the day but also respectful of the Muslim religion, particularly in the souks of Marrakech, Taroudant and Essaouira covering up from shoulder to just below the knee. Swimwear is acceptable only in close proximity to a swimming pool or on the beach.

Currency

The currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham. As it is a closed currency it cannot be purchased outside Morocco. The current exchange rate is approximately 13 Dirhams to the £1. Sterling cash and Travellers Cheques can be exchanged at the airport on arrival or in the resort hotels. Cash point machines, although increasing in number are still quite rare. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely recognised and accepted credit cards.

Ramadan

In 2011 the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan will be observed during August, which might be an incentive or a deterrent to people wishing to travel. Some restaurants in resort areas might close for the month, but the night–time celebrations, particularly from the end of the second week onwards are particularly lively and colourful.

Morocco hotels

Angsana Riad Lydines

Angsana Riad Lydines is a friendly and homely riad offering peace, quiet and privacy

Angsana Riad Si Said

Opulent in design, the surroundings of the Angsana Riad Si Said imbues the visitor with a sense of grandeur

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Es Saadi Palace

The Palace, is an opulent all-suite resort set amongst 8 hectares of beautifully kept and wonderfully mature botanical gardens

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Four Seasons Marrakech

Delightfully located amidst olive and palm trees in a large walled Moorish garden where fountains and tranquil courtyards

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Heure Bleue Palais

Heure Bleue Palais is undoubtedly the most luxurious riad in Essaouira

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Hotel Atlas Essaouira & Spa

Located near the ramparts of Essaouira, just across the road from the seafront and 1km from the beach

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Hotel Es Saadi

Hotel Es Saadi nestles in 8 hectares of beautifully kept botanical gardens and is located just ten minutes' walk from the old walls of Marrakech

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Hotel La Maison Arabe

Located in the Medina, the legendary Hotel La Maison Arabe boasts flower filled courtyards

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Iberostar Founty Beach

In a prime location next to the golden sandy beach, 1km from Agadir centre

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Kasbah Angour

Just a 30 minute drive from Marrakech, the beautiful Kasbah Angour nestles in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains

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Kasbah Bab Ourika

Kasbah Bab Ourika, accessed by 4x4 vehicle over mountainous terrain. boasts breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains

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Kasbah Tamadot

Sir Richard Branson’s magical retreat, Kasbah Tamadot, set in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains

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Kenzi Menara Palace

Set in beautiful parkland and overlooking the ancient ramparts and the lush Agdal Royal Gardens

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Kenzi Tichka

Just north of the city and approximately 10 minutes' taxi ride from Djemaa el Fna

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La Mamounia

A legendary name amongst luxury hotels, La Mamounia first opened its doors in 1923 and remains, to this day, the most celebrated hotel in North Africa

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La Sultana Marrakech

Breathtaking is a suitable adjective to describe the elegance, style and attention to detail of La Sultana

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Le Medina Essaouira & Spa By MGALLERY

Situated a few minutes walk from the old city walls and facing a huge sandy beach, Le Medina Essaouira & Spa by MGALLERY represents a great choice for those wishing a comfortable stay in this beautiful seaside town which is relatively unaffected by touris

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Les Jardins de la Koutoubia

As you take your first steps within the impressive reception area of this fine hotel, and look through to the elegant swimming pool area, you will know that you have made an excellent choice

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Les Jardins de la Medina

A sumptuous riad formerly belonging to royalty, Les Jardins de la Medina has been transformed into a charming hotel.

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Palais Sebban

Centrally located in the Medina, this beautifully restored riad opens its doors to privileged guests

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Riad Villa Blanche

Enjoying a quiet location a 15 minute walk from the sandy golden beach of Agadir and within easy reach of restaurants and shops

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Riu Grand Palace Tikida Golf

With the ambiance of a private residence in an idyllic setting in the heart of the Golf du Soleil course RIU Grand Palace Tikida Golf, designed in traditional riad style, boasts all suite accommodation with glorious views.

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Royal Mansour Marrakech

Within the medina walls, the stunning Royal Mansour Marrakech replicates a traditional medina design where individual riads, interspersed by Andalucian courtyards and gardens,

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Sirayane

Situated 15 minutes’ drive from Djemaa el Fna square and set in its own wall grounds with distant views to the Atlas Mountains

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Sofitel Agadir RoyalBay Resort

Sofitel Agadir enjoys a prime position on Agadir's golden, sandy beach

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Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa

In a stunning location overlooking the golf course and the Atlantic Ocean, the recently opened Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa is a luxurious and stylish hotel with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

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Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa

Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa is ideally located for exploration of the city.

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Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial

With the appearence of a Moorish Palace, Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial boasts an impressive lobby, swimming pools in the well tendered gardens

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Timoulay Hotel Spa

Located in a quiet side street in the Palm Bay area, 500m from Agadir beach and with a fashionable residential area of shops, restaurants and bars 700m away,

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Villa des Orangers

Imagine a palace protected by one hundred-year-old walls and flooded with light, where the silence is broken only by the sound of trickling fountains in the shade of the orange trees

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Widiane Suites & Spa

Boasting authentic Berber hospitality, Widiane Suites & Spa in the Atlas Mountains, three hours’ drive from Marrakech

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Morocco sightseeing

Marrakech

Few cities in the world enjoy such a dramatic setting and intoxicating atmosphere as Marrakech where the rose-pink walls of the ancient city sit low beneath the soaring peaks of the Atlas mountains. The fronds of towering palm trees jostle for position above the medieval ramparts where nesting storks colonise each vacant turret.

Marrakech has attracted visitors for centuries and the Djemaa el Fna square is the focal point to which tribes and travellers have been drawn since ancient times. Each day as the shadow of the elegant Koutoubia minaret lengthens towards the Djemaa el Fna square the carnival begins. An extraordinary collection of Berber musicians, snake-charmers, fortune tellers, fire eaters and dancers gather to entertain the ever shifting circles of mesmerised onlookers.

During the day you can wander for hours through the seemingly infinite souks before retreating from the heady atmosphere to the shaded tranquility of your hotel pool and gardens. Or head for the terrace of a pavement cafe, enjoy a refreshing mint tea whilst watching this uniquely colourful pageant.

The Gardens of Marrakech

Spend a half day visiting the gardens of Marrakech by horse-drawn carriage. The tour includes a visit to the Menara gardens where one of the most famous sights of Marrakech, the Saadian Pavilion overlooks the reservoir against the backdrop of the Atlas mountains. Take in the Agdal Gardens en route to the lush botanical Majaorelle Gardens privately owned by Yves St Laurent.

Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate

Cross the High Atlas Mountains over the Tizi N'Tichka pass and enjoy spectacular scenic views of mountains and semi-desert terrain topped by kasbahs and adobe homes before visiting the spectacular 11 th century Ait Ben Haddou kasbah declared by UNESCO as a world heritage site and historical treasure.

Evening at Yacout

Take cocktails on the roof top terrace overlooking the medina before enjoying a gala dinner in the sumptuous interior of an ancient Moroccan Palace and one of North Africa's most revered restaurants. Splendid rooms decorated with antique chandeliers, fireplaces and stunning mosaics offer an intimate atmosphere whilst ornate crystal, fine china and white table linen strewn with rose petals complement a beautifully presented traditional Moroccan feast.

Essouira

Essaouira is undoubtedly the most charismatic of Morocco's coastal towns. Above the medieval battlements of the medina the white-washed, blue-shuttered houses look out over an arc of perfect golden sand towards the sea and bustling harbour. Inside the city walls, the coastal breeze threads its way through a maze of streets and alleyways, where art galleries, antique shops, smart boutiques and serious surf shacks (catering for the wind-surfing fraternity which is drawn to the town) sit alongside market stalls, barbers and traditional workshops. As relaxing as it is enchanting, Essaouira offers an easy-going and beguiling holiday experience.

Agadir

Agadir, as Morocco's premier beach resort, delivers all you could expect of a modern, well-planned resort offering a wonderful year-round climate and ten kilometres of fine, golden sands neighbouring the Atlantic ocean.

A 16th century Kasbah stands guard over the modern port to the north of the town. Gardens and parks separate the residential area from the resort's many hotels which border tree-lined promenades, boulevards and the beach.

There are numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs, as well as a huge selection of shops and a small colourful souk.

Sports lovers will enjoy a wide variety of water sports and there are three excellent golf courses nearby.

Morocco cuisine

The food of Morocco reflects the country's diverse cultural heritage. The Berber influence remains strong with many of the 'essential' Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tajine (tasty stews) and harira (hearty soups) being Berber in origin. The Bedouin Arabs introduced dates, milk, grain, bread and dried pasta. The Moors brought Andalusian foods to the feast - nuts, fruits, herbs and oil. Invading Arabs brought a wealth of spices from the East.

Essentially Moroccan cuisine is based around the staples of peppers, tomatoes, garlic, olives, eggs, onions, couscous, chicken, lamb, pigeon, fish and a wealth of spices, fruits, nuts and pastries both savoury and sweet.

Marrakech offers some great Moroccan dishes served in beautiful traditional restaurants. Essaouira has a number of restaurants whose appearance belies the quality of the food available - never judge a book by its cover! La Gazelle d'Or in Taroudant is renowned for the excellence of its cuisine whilst Agadir has a huge number and variety of restaurants with menus offering Italian, French, Mexican, Chinese, Thai and Lebanese.

Classic tours

We are delighted to offer Classic customers the opportunity to discover Morocco on two different private tours. Choose between discovering the culture and traditions of the Imperial Cities including Marrakech, Rabat, Meknes and Fes, or if you’d like to experience the Sahara at sunrise enjoying the magnificent colours of the desert, simply book our Dunes & Kasbahs Tour.

We organise each private tour on a tailor-made basis so you can leave Marrakech whichever day suits you best enjoying scenery from air conditioned four wheel drive transport and local knowledge from your own English speaking driver/guide. Various itinerary choices can be tailormade to suit you and although we’ve given specific tour details and prices for 4 nights, we can also offer additional durations and upgrades to more luxurious accommodation. Simply call our reservations team for details.

IMPERIAL CITIES PRIVATE TOUR

Marrakech - Rabat - Meknes - Fes - Marrakech

Day 1

Leave Marrakech for Rabat with a stop in Casablanca visiting the Habbous area, the Corniche and one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, Hassan II Mosque, followed by lunch before carrying onto the capital Rabat. Dinner and overnight in Rabat.

Day 2

Spend the morning in the Imperial City of Rabat exploring the Royal Palace, the Mohamed V mausoleum, Hassan Tower and the Oudaya Gardens. Depart for Fes and en route stop at the ancient Roman city of Volubilis with its well-preserved mosaics before reaching the old capital of the Sultan Moulay Idriss, the 11th century Imperial city of Meknes. After lunch visit the famous Bab Mansour gate and the sultan’s stables that once housed 12,000 horses before continuing to Fes. Overnight and dinner in Fes.

Day 3

Spend a full day seeing the sights of Fes, the oldest Imperial City in Morocco and one of the best-preserved medieval Islamic cities in the world. Explore the old town, Fes el Bali, and the medina with its Andalucian quarter, tanneries and artisan workshops. Lunch in the medina before visiting the Royal Palace and the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter. After dinner, enjoy a folklore evening at Hafla with music, dancing and entertainment. Overnight in Fes.

Day 4

Leave Fes for the scenic drive back to Marrakech, travelling via the European style mountain town of Ifrane and the city of Beni Mellal, passing through the cedar forests of Azrou before crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains. Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.

Day 5

Enjoy a half day city tour of the historical sights of Marrakech and lunch.

Prices for our Imperial Cities five day tour, starting and ending in Marrakech, including private transport and four nights accommodation in a 4 star hotel, start from £678 per person. Please call us for prices on specific dates, alternative durations, and also for prices for tours including 5 star hotel accommodation.

DUNES & KASBAHS PRIVATE TOUR

Marrakech - Ouarzazate - Erfoud - Merzouga - Taroudant - Agadir

Day 1

Enjoy a half day walking tour of Marrakech before lunch and a scenic drive over the Tiz’n Tichka pass on the way to the old French Legion town of Ouarzazate. Dinner and overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 2

Leave Ouarzazate for the scenic drive down The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs heading for the Todgha Gorges, enjoying lunch in the shadow of the towering cliffs before arriving at Erfoud on the edge of the Sahara desert. Overnight and dinner in Erfoud, famed for its fossils.

Day 3

From Erfoud head for Merzouga with a visit to the village of Rissani and the option of joining a dromedary meharee (trek) and experience the sunset or sunrise at Erg Chebbi. Overnight and dinner in Merzouga.

Day 4

Leave Merzouga for Ouarzazate on the scenic route via Jbels Sarhro and the Tizi-n-Tinifitt pass with a stop in the Alinif area for lunch. Visit the pre-historic caves at N’Kob and the town of Agdz, famous for its dates, before arriving in Ouarzazate. Dinner and overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 5

Explore the Taourirt Kasbah, and the Artisan centre in Ouarzazate. Then on to Taliouine, the saffron capital of Morocco, and a short stop in Taroudant, capital of the Saadian dynasty boasting one of the most authentic souks, arriving in Agadir in the late afternoon.

The tour is made up of busy, full days (including up to 8 hours of touring per day) although day 3 only includes 2 hours driving. Prices for Dunes & Kasbahs five day tour including private transport and four nights full board accommodation in a 4 star hotel, start from £693 per person. Please call us for prices on specific dates, durations, and for prices for tours including both 4 and 5 star hotel accommodation.

Please note itineraries are subject to alteration. Private tours are based on a minimum of 2 passengers and include transport by air conditioned vehicle and English speaking driver/guide. Full board accommodation (continental breakfast, light lunch and 3 course dinner, excluding drinks) is included although entrance fees to some sites will be payable locally.

Morocco offers

Angsana Riad Lydines

Angsana Riad Lydines is a friendly and homely riad offering peace, quiet and privacy

6 offers

Angsana Riad Si Said

Opulent in design, the surroundings of the Angsana Riad Si Said imbues the visitor with a sense of grandeur

6 offers

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Es Saadi Palace

The Palace, is an opulent all-suite resort set amongst 8 hectares of beautifully kept and wonderfully mature botanical gardens

1 offer

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Four Seasons Marrakech

Delightfully located amidst olive and palm trees in a large walled Moorish garden where fountains and tranquil courtyards

4 offers

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Heure Bleue Palais

Heure Bleue Palais is undoubtedly the most luxurious riad in Essaouira

2 offers

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Hotel Atlas Essaouira & Spa

Located near the ramparts of Essaouira, just across the road from the seafront and 1km from the beach

6 offers

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Hotel Es Saadi

Hotel Es Saadi nestles in 8 hectares of beautifully kept botanical gardens and is located just ten minutes' walk from the old walls of Marrakech

3 offers

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Hotel La Maison Arabe

Located in the Medina, the legendary Hotel La Maison Arabe boasts flower filled courtyards

4 offers

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Kasbah Angour

Just a 30 minute drive from Marrakech, the beautiful Kasbah Angour nestles in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains

4 offers

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Kasbah Bab Ourika

Kasbah Bab Ourika, accessed by 4x4 vehicle over mountainous terrain. boasts breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains

2 offers

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Kasbah Tamadot

Sir Richard Branson’s magical retreat, Kasbah Tamadot, set in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains

1 offer

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Kenzi Menara Palace

Set in beautiful parkland and overlooking the ancient ramparts and the lush Agdal Royal Gardens

2 offers

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Kenzi Tichka

Just north of the city and approximately 10 minutes' taxi ride from Djemaa el Fna

3 offers

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La Sultana Marrakech

Breathtaking is a suitable adjective to describe the elegance, style and attention to detail of La Sultana

1 offer

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Le Medina Essaouira & Spa By MGALLERY

Situated a few minutes walk from the old city walls and facing a huge sandy beach, Le Medina Essaouira & Spa by MGALLERY represents a great choice for those wishing a comfortable stay in this beautiful seaside town which is relatively unaffected by touris

4 offers

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Les Jardins de la Medina

A sumptuous riad formerly belonging to royalty, Les Jardins de la Medina has been transformed into a charming hotel.

7 offers

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Palais Sebban

Centrally located in the Medina, this beautifully restored riad opens its doors to privileged guests

4 offers

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Riad Villa Blanche

Enjoying a quiet location a 15 minute walk from the sandy golden beach of Agadir and within easy reach of restaurants and shops

3 offers

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Riu Grand Palace Tikida Golf

With the ambiance of a private residence in an idyllic setting in the heart of the Golf du Soleil course RIU Grand Palace Tikida Golf, designed in traditional riad style, boasts all suite accommodation with glorious views.

1 offer

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Royal Mansour Marrakech

Within the medina walls, the stunning Royal Mansour Marrakech replicates a traditional medina design where individual riads, interspersed by Andalucian courtyards and gardens,

2 offers

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-

Sirayane

Situated 15 minutes’ drive from Djemaa el Fna square and set in its own wall grounds with distant views to the Atlas Mountains

4 offers

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Sofitel Agadir RoyalBay Resort

Sofitel Agadir enjoys a prime position on Agadir's golden, sandy beach

5 offers

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Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa

In a stunning location overlooking the golf course and the Atlantic Ocean, the recently opened Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa is a luxurious and stylish hotel with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

3 offers

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Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa

Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa is ideally located for exploration of the city.

5 offers

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Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial

With the appearence of a Moorish Palace, Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial boasts an impressive lobby, swimming pools in the well tendered gardens

3 offers

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Timoulay Hotel Spa

Located in a quiet side street in the Palm Bay area, 500m from Agadir beach and with a fashionable residential area of shops, restaurants and bars 700m away,

2 offers

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Villa des Orangers

Imagine a palace protected by one hundred-year-old walls and flooded with light, where the silence is broken only by the sound of trickling fountains in the shade of the orange trees

4 offers

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Widiane Suites & Spa

Boasting authentic Berber hospitality, Widiane Suites & Spa in the Atlas Mountains, three hours’ drive from Marrakech

2 offers

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