Introduction to Morocco
Morocco’s captivating
charms and engaging cities
present some of the most
authentic experiences in
North Africa and a stay
at a traditional ‘riad’ can
complement your visit
by recreating some of
the timeless character of
this spectacular country.
Translating from the Arabic,
their literal meaning is
‘golden courtyard’, denoting
the beautiful inner gardens
around which most of these
properties were originally
built. Over the past few
decades a number of these
traditional homes have been
converted into beautifully
restored recreations of their
former glory, presenting
unique and wholly engaging
alternatives to a stay in Fez
and Marrakech. Traditional Moroccan houses, set around beautiful interior gardens, riads are amongst the most authentic and captivating of Morocco’s extensive
holiday properties. The bustling streets and colourful souks of Fez and Marrakech hide a rich array of these sumptuous havens, from intimate family
homes filled with traditional touches and enchanting ambience, to opulent Moorish luxury that hark back to the grandeur and majesty of the
cities’ golden ages.
Instructions
Listed below are some of the options you can choose for a Tailor Made Holiday to Morocco
To make an enquiry, select the options that interest you, and then click 'continue' to tell us more about what you would like to do
The following options are available as part of Bales Tailor made Holidays:
Places to see and things to do ― Tailor Made Luxury Holidays to Morocco
FEZ
FEZ
Just a 3-hour flight from the U.K., Fez
is many centuries further back in
time. Walking through its meandering
network of souks and backstreets, you
are instantly transported to another
world, one where the noises, colours
and aromas have changed little over
countless generations. In the heart of
its bustling medina you can witness
timeless traditions and craftsmanship
that goes back many thousands
of years.Select this tailor made option
MARRAKECH
MARRAKECH
ake a journey back in time, to a city
that evokes the true colours, sounds
and romance of the ‘Arabian Nights’. For
centuries a meeting place for Morocco’s
diverse tribes, its bustling souks and
alleyways reflect the very spirit of this
fascinating country; from the beauty of
the Koutoubla mosque, to the eclectic
vibrancy of Jemaa el-Fna Square, with its
jugglers, musicians and snake charmers.
This is a city that will captivate, enthral
and delight.Select this tailor made option
MEKNES AND VOLUBILIS
MEKNES AND VOLUBILIS
The city of Meknes was the imperial
heart of the empire overshadowed by
Sultan Moulay Ismail, a tyrant of the
highest order, but whose tomb remains
one of Morocco’s most stunning
monuments. Dating from the 2nd and
3rd centuries AD the ancient city of
Volubilis was once the capital of Roman
Mauritania and contains some of the
best preserved Roman ruins in northern
Africa, a factor that saw it listed on the
UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997.Select this tailor made option
Places to stay ― Tailor Made Luxury Holidays to Morocco
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BERBERE PALACE OUARZAZATE
BERBERE PALACE OUARZAZATE
Designed along the lines of a traditional
kasbah, the Berbere Palace has 232
rooms, with en suite bathrooms and
air-conditioning, all decorated in Berber
style. Built around enclosed gardens,
the cottage style rooms have their own
private terraces within a courtyard,
whilst a large pool area and bar, gym
and health suite make this an
excellent choice.Select this tailor made option
DAR LES CIGOGNES MARRAKECH
DAR LES CIGOGNES MARRAKECH
This ‘maison d’hôtes’ is built around a
courtyard surrounded by a fountain and fruit
trees. Located in the heart of the old town of
Marrakech with major sites a few minutes
away, Dar Les Cigognes is an excellent base
for exploring the city. It has 11 bedrooms in
two different buildings, all unique and drawing
on the rich cultural heritage of Moorish art
and décor. Dar Les Cigognes has been
designed so as to make their guests feel at
home and the public spaces allow everyone
to be able to find privacy – there are two
living rooms, a dining room, library and
traditional outdoor seating area. There is also
a hammam.Select this tailor made option
KASBAH TAMADOT ATLAS MOUNTAINS
KASBAH TAMADOT ATLAS MOUNTAINS
Steeped in history, the Kasbah Tamadot lies in the foothills
of the High Atlas Mountains, with spectacular views over the
snow-capped peaks. With just 18 superbly appointed rooms
and suites, all individually and exquisitely decorated, it is an
eclectic fusion of tradition and sophistication. The complex
also comprises courtyards and gardens, a stunning pool and
spa and a restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes.Select this tailor made option
KENZI BELERE ERFOUD
KENZI BELERE ERFOUD
Located in the main tourist area,
the Kenzi Belere Palace offers 140
comfortable and air-conditioned rooms
with en suite bathrooms, spread across
a number of cottage style buildings
that lead off from the large pool and
garden area. With 3 restaurants and bars
and close to the lively centre of this old
French settlement this excellent property
is Erfoud’s newest hotel.Select this tailor made option
L’HEURE BLEUE PALAIS ESSAOUIRA
L’HEURE BLEUE PALAIS ESSAOUIRA
L’Heure Bleue Palais is a recently restored
riad situated in the heart of the old town
of Essaouira, on Morocco’s Atlantic coast.
Accommodation is in one of 35 themed
rooms and suites varying from African to
English colonial, with modern amenities
including air-conditioning and internet
connection. On the rooftop there is a large
terrace offering great views of Essaouira
and its surroundings and a swimming pool
and bar. Public areas include a billiard
room, tea lounge and Moroccan lounge.
The food is a fusion of French gastronomic
cuisine and Moroccan flavours.Select this tailor made option
LA MAISON ARABE MARRAKECH
LA MAISON ARABE MARRAKECH
Founded in the 1940s by two remarkable French
women, this elegant property lies in the shadow of
the Bab Doukkala Mosque. Classically Moroccan in
style it evokes the majestic grandeur of a bygone
age. Built around 2 charming terraces are 17 luxurious
rooms and suites, all with en suite bathrooms and
air-conditioning. An exclusive pool, set within lush
gardens, is on offer a short shuttle ride away and
the riad offers 3 restaurants, a traditional hammam
and a unique cookery workshop.Select this tailor made option
LA MAISON BLEUE FEZ
LA MAISON BLEUE FEZ
Built in 1915, this charming boutique property is
located within the medina of Fez and offers 6
distinctive and individually appointed suites, all
beautifully appointed throughout with rich fabrics
and antique furnishings. Built around a central
courtyard, all of the rooms have en suite bathrooms
and air-conditioning and the hotel enjoys the
distinction of a rooftop terrace, fascinating library
and a renowned restaurant that serves an excellent
array of local dishes.Select this tailor made option
LES JARDINS DE LA MEDINA MARRAKECH
LES JARDINS DE LA MEDINA MARRAKECH
A former royal residence which was
renovated and reopened a few years ago
as a luxurious ‘riad’ with 36 rooms. Located
in the heart of the medina, this riad is the
perfect base for your exploration of this
enchanting city. The rooms are set around
a tranquil central garden with outdoor
swimming pool (heated in winter). The
restaurant has seating both indoors and
outside in the gardens,where you may
dine beneath the trees. There is a bar, a
traditional hammam (bath house) and a
massage room.Select this tailor made option
PALAIS SEBBAN MARRAKECH
PALAIS SEBBAN MARRAKECH
Evoking all the charm and authenticity
of 19th century ambience and fine
living, this centrally located palace is an
engaging collection of tranquil terraces,
stained glass and mosaic tiles. The 15
individually appointed rooms all offer
the modern comforts with traditional
Moroccan style and décor. There is also
a pool and a restaurant overseen by
French and Moroccan chefs.Select this tailor made option
RIAD FES FEZ
RIAD FES FEZ
Elegant rather than intimate, Riad Fes is a grand hotel that
comprises 21 distinctly appointed rooms and suites in the
heart of the medina. Spacious and comfortable, each room is
utterly original in shape and décor, offering beautiful interiors
and superb Moroccan finished bathrooms. The Riad Fes also
offers a pool, a luxurious hammam, serene patio garden and
spectacular views across the city.Select this tailor made option
RIAD KNIZA MARRAKECH
RIAD KNIZA MARRAKECH
One of the most accessible riads in
Marrakech, Riad Kniza is situated in one of the
most colourful quarters of the medina and is
only a few minutes walk from the famous
Jemaa El Fna square. The property itself is an
18th century home which has been
beautifully restored and the 7 authentically
decorated rooms are set around the open
courtyard. Meals are served either on the
terrace overlooking the Atlas Mountains and
the medina or in one of the two lounges.
Although there is no swimming pool on site,
the riad offers courtesy transfers and entrance
fees to the luxury La Palmeraie pool in the
suburbs of Marrakech.Select this tailor made option
RIAD MABROUKA FEZ
RIAD MABROUKA FEZ
The Riad Mabrouka is a small luxury
guesthouse located in the heart of the
ancient medina of Fez. It has just 2
bedrooms and 6 suites, each with airconditioning
and private bathroom and
decorated in an individual, traditional
Moroccan style. The property has a
swimming pool set in pretty Mediterranean
gardens,hammam and roof terrace with
panoramic views over the medina and
the surrounding hills. Traditional Moroccan
meals and French or Mediterranean cuisine
are available and served on the terrace
overlooking the old city, said to be the
world’s largest inhabited medieval city.Select this tailor made option
RIAD MAISON BLEUE FEZ
RIAD MAISON BLEUE FEZ
The walled city of Fez is one of Morocco’s gems,
and the beautifully restored Riad Maison Bleue
is a lovely property offering 11 suites. The whole
property is full of character and provides good
food and attentive service.
Set in lovely gardens, the riad has a swimming
pool and traditional hammam, bar, Moroccan
restaurant and a beautiful rooftop terrace
overlooking the ancient medina and where
breakfast is usually served. Sister property
La Maison Bleue is a small boutique property
located within the medina with just 6 suites, all
very different and decorated with rich fabrics
and packed full of antiques. There is a very
good restaurant offering local dishes; if you
wish to dine alfresco there is also a rooftop
terrace giving superb views across the city.Select this tailor made option
RIAD MEHDI MARRAKECH
RIAD MEHDI MARRAKECH
The Riad Mehdi is situated along the
ramparts of the Medina, facing the Royal
Residence and located near Bab Agnaou
gateway and the Saadian tombs. There are
9 air-conditioned rooms, all traditionally
designed with large double bed, telephone
and bathroom, and charming touches such
as a cosy fireplace. Some offer a private
terrace overlooking the attractive outdoor
swimming pool. The hotel also features a
dining room and bar. There are full spa
facilities at the hotel’s excellent ‘Bains de
Marrakech’ Spa, including a hammam,
balneotherapy programmes and massage.Select this tailor made option
SOFITEL DIWAN RABAT
SOFITEL DIWAN RABAT
Located in the heart of the city, close to
the Royal Palace and some of Rabat’s
finest historical sights, this excellent
modern hotel offers 88 comfortable,
charmingly appointed rooms and 6
spacious suites, all with air-conditioning,
private bathrooms and a full range of
amenities. The hotel also offers a Parisian
brasserie, a jazz bar and a well-being
centre with sauna and hammam.Select this tailor made option
SOFITEL PALAIS JAMAI FEZ
SOFITEL PALAIS JAMAI FEZ
Occupying beautiful landscaped
gardens of lush palms and marble
fountains and built in the finest Moorish
style, this elegant and historic property
overlooks the ancient medina of Fez.
With 132 spacious rooms with modern
comforts, Palais Jamai also offers 3
restaurants, a bar, swimming pool and a
luxurious spa and hammam with a wide
selection of indulgent treatments.Select this tailor made option
THE KASBAH DU TOUBKAL
THE KASBAH DU TOUBKAL
The Kasbah Du Toubkal is a magnificent mountain
retreat spectacularly situated in the heart of the
High Atlas. Built in the 1940s by a wealthy caid of
the ruling Glaoui family, the kasbah fell into
disrepair after Moroccan independence in 1956,
but has now been sensitively restored to offer
excellent accommodation and food. Located
near the foot of Jebel Toubkal, the highest
mountain in North Africa, this property offers
peace and seclusion in an area perfect for
walking or just relaxing in the spectacular scenery.
The kasbah offers 8 rooms with ensuite facilities,
lounge area and sundeck. There are additionally
3 ‘Berber saloons’ and a self-contained
3-bedroom house.The kasbah was described in
the Condé Nast Traveller magazine as Morocco’s
“first and foremost mountain retreat”.Select this tailor made option
VILLA DES ORANGERS MARRAKECH
VILLA DES ORANGERS MARRAKECH
A five-star haven of luxurious style, this palatial property
is located close to Jemaa el-Fna Square and offers a
combination of traditional elegance and superb service in
the heart of Marrakech. Decorated throughout in Moorish
grandeur it has 19 rooms and suites affording superb facilities,
as well as 2 pools, a garden and a rooftop terrace.Select this tailor made option
Riad Al Medina, Essaouira
Riad Al Medina, Essaouira
Built in 1871, the Riad al Medina lies in the shadow of Essaouira's ramparts in the centre of the medina. The Riad features sculptured stonework, Moorish arches and lofty pillars surrounding its fine central courtyard. There are 23 rooms with ensuite facilities, a restaurant and lounge. Your breakfast is served on the roof terrace (weather permitting).Select this tailor made option
Suggested itineraries ― Tailor Made Luxury Holidays to Morocco
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A TASTE OF MOROCCO
A TASTE OF MOROCCO
A TASTE OF MOROCCO
Morocco is a magnificent land of contrast and colour. During your 9 day journey you will experience the enchantment of Marrakech with its atmospheric main square full of singers, herbalists and snake charmers surrounded by a maze of souks. Continue into the foothills of the Atlas Mountains for breathtaking scenery and relaxed walking and onwards to the charming seaside town of Essaouira, the perfect place to relax and enjoy the wonderful selection of seafood restaurants.
All Flights as shown in economy class
First class accommodation throughout based on two people sharing a twin room
Private transfers throughout
Private sightseeing as shown with local English speaking guides including entrance fees
All airport taxes
Daily departures from London Gatwick (London Heathrow also available at a a supplement)
Day 1
This afternoon depart London Gatwick, flying to Marrakech. On arrival you are met and transferred to the Riad Mehdi for 2 nights.
Day 2
Centuries old, wrapped in mystery, Marrakech - "Morocco City" as the early travellers called it has always been something of a pleasure city. This marketplace was founded on the crossroads of the ancient caravan routes where the southern tribesmen and Berber villagers brought in their goods and sought entertainment. Known as "The Red Pearl of the South" because of the pink ochre colour of its buildings, Marrakech is the second Imperial capital after Fez and has been the stronghold of many powerful dynasties.This morning you will enjoy a guided tour of the city including the labyrinth streets of the souks, colourful valleys and small squares devoted to specific crafts where one can watch part of the production process. End the tour in the famous Djemaa El Fna square, an open space which is the stage of a long-established ritual. Here gather groups of acrobats, drummers, storytellers and snake charmers, a whole festival of musicians, and street entertainers.
Day 3
Transfer by private car north of Marrakech to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains (75 KM/approximately 1 hour 30 minutes) where you will stay at the Kasbah Du Toubkal for 3 nights.
Day 4 and Day 5
Two days at leisure to explore the local area at your own pace. Boxed lunches can be arranged with the hotel if you wish to enjoy a full day walking. The Kasbah is a perfect place just to relax and unwind from the pressures of modern day life. The ascent of Jbel Toubkal (4167 metres), North Africa's highest mountain, is achievable during the summer months without specialist climbing skills. Most people who are reasonably fit and determined can achieve this goal and the views are magnificent - on a clear day you can see the Sahara. Numerous possibilities are available, ranging from gentle rambles through the villages around the Kasbah to extended treks of one or more days.
Day 6
Today you will continue by private car to the charming seaside resort of Essaouira where you will stay at the Villa Maroc for 2 nights in a Mini Suite. You may wish to upgrade to the L’Heure Bleue Palais for your 2 nights stay in Essaouira (from £130 per person.
Day 7
Essaouira was built in the 18th century as a free port for European merchants and their Jewish agents engaged in the Trans-Saharian gold, ivory and slaves trade. With its Gothic battlements and fortifications facing rocky islands, Essaouira is certainly Morocco's most likeable resort. Its blue-shuttered houses and art galleries, its wood workshops and boat builders provide a colourful backdrop to the Atlantic coast. Known also as Mogador, this town has long been associated with artists, as life in the resort is easy and uncomplicated. In the late 1960’s, the most idealistic youth cultures congregated at Essaouira which became a haven for the hippies. With a full day at leisure, Essaouira enjoys the reputation as one of Morocco’s most laid-back resorts, where narrow streets and whitewashed houses present an enchanting backdrop to traditional riads, bustling markets and sardine fishermen.
An eclectic mix of Moroccan, Medina and French styles pepper the town, creating an ideal location to stop and soak up the rich ambience of Morocco’s western coast.
Day 8
This morning you will return by private car to Marrakech for a final overnight stay at the Riad Mehdi. The afternoon is at leisure for last minute shopping in the souks.
Day 9
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to London Gatwick.Select this tailor made option
IMPERIAL CITIES OF FEZ AND MARRAKECH
IMPERIAL CITIES OF FEZ AND MARRAKECH
IMPERIAL CITIES OF FEZ AND MARRAKECH
Combine two of Morocco’s most fascinating Imperial cities, Fez and Marrakech. Both are vibrant places full of opportunity for exploration. Marrakech with its rose-coloured ramparts and a thousand year palm grove is full of excitement with its vibrant souks, colourful gardens, perfect mosque, medina and palaces. Fez is a jewel of Hispano-Arabic civilisation, with palaces and museums, and interesting souks. It is also within easy reach ancient Roman city of Volubilis, and Meknes.
All Flights as shown in economy class
First class accommodation throughout based on two people sharing a twin room
Private transfers throughout
Private sightseeing as shown with local English speaking guides including entrance fees
All airport taxes
Daily departures from London Heathrow on Tuesdays throughout the year (london Gatwick also available)
Day 1: This morning you will depart London Heathrow flying to Fez. On arrival you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to the Riad Mabrouka for a 3 night stay. This afternoon is at leisure.
Day 2
You will have a morning sightseeing tour of Fez, the cultural heart of Morocco. The colourful labyrinth of lanes in the ‘medina’ provides endless fascination. Your guide is essential if you don’t want to miss the many almost secret passages.
Your sightseeing includes the Medersa (Koranic college) of Bou Inania, a jewel of Hispano-Moorish architecture, the attractive 18th century Nejjarine Fountain, and the excellent Museum of Moroccan Arts and Handicrafts. You will have the afternoon at leisure to explore further. Fez is one of the best places for viewing the traditional craftsmen of Morocco at work, producing fine silverware, pottery and leather goods.
Day 3: Today is at leisure. You will have the option of taking an excursion to Meknes and Volubilis.
Day 4:This morning you will be transferred to the airport for flight to Marrakech. On arrival yu will be transferred to Dar les Cigognes for a 4 night stay.
Day 5:Centuries old, wrapped in mystery, Marrakech - "Morocco City" as the early travellers called it has always been something of a pleasure city. This marketplace was founded on the crossroads of the ancient caravan routes where the southern tribesmen and Berber villagers brought in their goods and sought entertainment. Known as "The Red Pearl of the South" because of the pink ochre colour of its buildings, Marrakech is the second Imperial capital after Fez and has been the stronghold of many powerful dynasties.
This morning you will enjoy a guided tour of the city including the labyrinth streets of the souks, colourful valleys and small squares devoted to specific crafts where one can watch part of the production process. End the tour in the famous Djemaa El Fna square, an open space which is the stage of a long-established ritual. Here gather groups of acrobats, drummers, storytellers and snake charmers, a whole festival of musicians, and street entertainers.
Day 6 and 7:Today is at leisure with a choice of optional excursions. One suggestion is a trip to Ourika Valley, a stunning lush green valley approximately 60 KM from Marrakech. It is a pleasant prelude to the impressive Atlas Mountains and a fine escape from busy Marrakech. Along the road through this unspoilt valley, scattered at intervals, are a series of tiny Berber villages. You will see the nearby towering natural bridge at Imi-n-Ifri, which is a place of great fascination with the cries of crows echoing around the peaks. Return to Marrakech in the later afternoon. The more active may want to consider horse riding or camel trekking, an early morning hot air balloon, a 4 x 4 trip or a day trek in the Atlas Mountains.
Day 8: This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow via Casablanca.Select this tailor made option