Gardens of Marrakech 5356
Gardens of Marrakech 5356
Gardens of Marrakech 5356
5 Days Starting and ending in London, UK
Visiting: Marrakesh, Marrakech, Atlas Mountains
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BMRK
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 25
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the Gardens of Marrakech, a cultural tour that immerses you in the vibrant heart of Morocco. Begin your adventure in the luxurious Es Saadi Gardens & Resort Palace, where you'll explore the exquisite gardens with the Head Gardener. Discover the architectural marvels of El Bahia and El Badi Palaces, and be enchanted by the vibrant hues of the Majorelle Garden. Experience the tranquility of the Menara Garden and the artistic flair of Le Jardin Secret. Venture into the Atlas Mountains to explore the aromatic gardens of Ourika Valley, savoring the flavors of Moroccan saffron and organic cuisine. Conclude your journey with a stroll through the bustling Jemaa El Fna square, capturing the essence of Moroccan life. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, art, and nature, providing an unforgettable experience in the enchanting city of Marrakech.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Marrakesh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Es Saadi Gardens and Resort Palace
Meals Included: Dinner
We depart this morning from London on a direct flight to Marrakech (regional flight connections and overnight accommodation in London are available at a reasonable supplement). On arrival we will be met by our local coach and guide and transfer to our hotel in the city. Located in the heart of the luxurious district of Hivernagein, five minutes’ walk from the heart of old Marrakech, Es Saadi Gardens & Resort Palace features sumptuous decoration created by Master Craftsmen of Morocco. The hotel is set in extensive grounds and once we have settled into the hotel we will have a tour of the gardens with the Head Gardener.
Day 2
Location: Marrakech
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Es Saadi Gardens and Resort Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast we begin our exploration of Marrakech with a visit to El Bahia Palace, which was built in the late 19th century by the great vizier Sidi Moussa and intended to be the greatest palace of its time, capturing the essence of the nation’s style, both Moroccan and Islamic. There is a two-acre garden with rooms opening onto sunlit courtyards, planted with cypress, orange trees and jasmine and furnished with wells and fountains to provide a sheltered and private space.
From here we will walk to El Badi Palace, also built by Ahmad al-Mansur over a period of 25 years in the late 16th century. The original building is thought to have consisted of 360 rooms, richly decorated with marble and gold. It also has a small, underground, tunnel-like jail with about four cells where the king kept his prisoners. Unfortunately, the palace was torn apart by the Sultan Mawlay Ismail but there is still a lingering sense of grandeur and some interesting nooks and crannies to explore.
We end our morning at the famous garden of La Majorelle, which was made in the 1920s by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, with marble pools, raised pathways, banana trees, groves of bamboo, coconut palms and bougainvilleas. Unsuprisingly, the garden is composed and coloured like a painting, with many of the solid features painted in a rich blue (‘Majorelle Blue’) which works very well with the soil, climate and plants. Water is a prominent feature of the garden, with channels, lily-filled ponds and fountains and there is a wide range of plants, for Majorelle was an avid collector. After years of neglect, the garden was then taken over and restored by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and today presents an extraordinary and at times surreal combination of colour, form and light.
In the afternoon we will walk to the Yves Saint Laurent Art and Design for a brief visit before we drive to the expansive gardens of M. Ben Chaabane, who is a renowned Garden Designer, botanist, perfume maker and publisher. M. Chaabane was approached in 1998 by Yves Saint Laurent to restore the Majorelle Gardens and develop a perfume that represented them. He also encouraged him to create his own perfumes, which are now commercially available throughout the country. Within this garden property we will admire a stimulating collection of contemporary paintings by local and foreign artists. Nearby we will see the cactus garden, an excellent example of a dry garden of the semi-arid zones.
Day 3
Location: Marrakech
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Es Saadi Gardens and Resort Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our exploration of Marrakech continues today with a visit to to visit the tranquil Menara Garden, which has its origins in a 12th century orchard of palm, olive and fruit trees. An orchard, pools and pavilions are the primary components of Islamic gardens and Menara is a classic example, with a formal pool overlooked by a pavilion previously used by the sultan and his family. The present pavilion dates from the nineteenth century but is believed to be on the site of a 16th-century Saadian structure. The image of the trees and surrounding mountains reflected in the shimmering pool provides perfect photo opportunities and lingering memories.
We continue with a walk in Arset Moulay Abdessalam within the city walls, which was a space for the artisans of the souks to organize their parties. Then we continue to Jnane Harti, known for its cactus and other exotic plants.
After an opportunity for lunch (not included) this afternoon we will visit one of the most sumptuous palaces of Marrakech, Dar el Basha, built for the famous dignitary El Glaoui more than a century ago.
We continue to Le Jardin Secret, a garden that has been the home of some important political figures. Designed by Chelsea Gold Medal winner Tom Stuart-Smith, this is an outstanding example of the art and architecture of an Islamic garden and is a part of the great tradition of stately Arab-Andalusian and Moroccan palaces.
From here we continue to the artisan quarter to visit the workshops of dyers, tinsmiths, leather makers and wood painters, with the opportunity to take many rewarding photos of this colourful, bustling market.
At the end of the afternoon we will enjoy a guided walk on the square of Jemaa El Fna, which teems with acrobats, jugglers, snake-charmers and story-tellers and provides a colourful taste of Moroccan life and culture.
Day 4
Location: Atlas Mountains
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Es Saadi Gardens and Resort Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast we drive into the Atlas Mountains to visit the organic and aromatic gardens nestled in the lush green valley of Ourika. As we reach the first foothills we will visit a Saffron Plantation and learn all about this ancient, expensive and almost mythical spice; its cultivation and its culinary and therapeutic properties.
We will enjoy a cup of delicious Moroccan saffron tea before we head to Nectarome, an aromatic garden located deep in the valley. On arrival we will have a guided tour of the property to discover the secrets and benefits of local plants as well as the Moroccan natural cosmetic products optimized by modern science. We then enjoy a succulent lunch, carefully prepared with organic vegetables and aromatic plants from the garden and served in its beautiful Pergola.
After lunch we will go to visit the contemporary gardens of Anima, created by an Austrian artist who skilfully combines plants and indigenous African art.
We return to the hotel where the evening is free, a chance to enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 5
Location: Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following breakfast we have some free time (depending on flight times) for shopping and sightseeing before we transfer to the airport for our flight back to London, where the group will disperse or make onward connections.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.
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Services of a professional tour manager
The services of a professional tour manager are included throughout the tour.
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Comfortable coach travel throughout
Comfortable coach travel is provided for the duration of the tour.
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Meals and visits as per the itinerary
Meals and visits are included as per the itinerary.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
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Lunch on Day 3
Lunch on Day 3 is not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach transfers, including a direct flight from London to Marrakech. Enjoy the convenience of local coach and guide services upon arrival, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Accommodation
Stay at the luxurious Es Saadi Gardens & Resort Palace, located in the heart of the Hivernage district in Marrakech. The hotel features sumptuous decoration by Moroccan Master Craftsmen and is set in extensive grounds, offering a serene and opulent retreat.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes accommodation at the Es Saadi Gardens and Resort Palace, which is located in the heart of the luxurious district of Hivernagein, five minutes’ walk from the heart of old Marrakech.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Meals are included as per the itinerary, with breakfast provided each day and some additional meals such as lunch on Day 4 at the Nectarome aromatic garden.
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What is the main focus of the tour?
The main focus of the tour is exploring the cultural and historical gardens of Marrakech, including visits to famous gardens like La Majorelle, Menara Garden, and the gardens of Anima.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes the services of a professional tour manager and local guides at various sites.
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What activities are planned for the first day of the tour?
On the first day, after arriving in Marrakech, participants will transfer to the hotel and have a tour of the gardens at Es Saadi Gardens & Resort Palace with the Head Gardener.
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Is there any free time during the tour for personal activities?
Yes, there is some free time on the last day for shopping and sightseeing before the transfer to the airport.
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What unique experiences does the tour offer in the Ourika Valley?
In the Ourika Valley, the tour offers a visit to a Saffron Plantation to learn about saffron cultivation, a guided tour of the Nectarome aromatic garden, and a lunch prepared with organic vegetables and aromatic plants.
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Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?
You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.
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What facilities do your coaches have?
Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.
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Do I have to go on the included excursions?
Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.
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Is there time to relax?
Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.
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Do I need to be an expert?
Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.
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How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?
You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding
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Do you have self-drive holidays?
Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!
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What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?
There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.
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Where are your departure points?
UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .
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What about the company that will be kept?
For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.
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What is a Brightwater Holiday?
Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.
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Why is there a single supplement?
Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.
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How much are your optional excursions?
Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.
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Can I pre-book my coach seats?
Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.
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How to get there? Easy!
With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.
At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.