Marrakech for The Slow Weekenders: a Friday-to-Monday weekend
Rose walls, spice smoke and a square that never sits still.
The weekend as rest. A hotel worth staying in, a hammam or a thermal bath, one unhurried sight each day, lunches that run into the afternoon, and early nights.
Friday: Coffee and a courtyard
- Bacha Coffee
A grand coffee house in the old palace, with a long menu of beans and pastries. Take the courtyard table.
- Le Jardin
A lantern-lit riad courtyard under banana trees, with a good Moroccan dinner and a quiet pace.
Saturday: Steam and blue
- Les Bains de Marrakech
A hammam, scrub and massage in a calm riad spa. Book two hours, and do nothing afterwards.
- Café Arabe
A long lunch on the roof of the riad, with pasta, salads and a glass of wine.
- Jardin Majorelle
Quieter in the late afternoon. Sit by the pool among the bamboo and let the light fade.
Sunday: Gardens and an early night
- Le Jardin Secret
Two gardens in a restored riad, and a tower to climb. Sit by the fountain for as long as you like.
- Nomad
A long rooftop lunch with modern Moroccan dishes. Order the lamb and linger.
- Menara Gardens
The olive grove and basin at golden hour. A short, flat walk and a very good end to the day.
Monday: Last palace
- Bahia Palace
Quiet at opening, with painted ceilings and courtyards. An hour is enough.
- Terrasse des Épices
A rooftop lunch above Souk Cherifia, with salads and grilled meat. A last quiet table.