Beyond Marrakech: A Sensory Journey Through Morocco’s Hidden Gems

The first thing that hits you in Morocco is the scent. A heady mix of spices—cumin,

cinnamon, and saffron which mingles with the smoky aroma of grilled meats and the

sweetness of freshly baked pastries. The air hums with the chatter of traders, the

distant call to prayer, and the rhythmic clatter of horse-drawn carriages weaving

through the streets.

I arrived in Marrakech expecting chaos, and I found it. But what I didn’t expect was

how effortlessly organised it was, everything has its place, and each area has its

own structure. The Medina is a living, breathing labyrinth where every turn reveals

something new—a jeweller hammering intricate silver designs, a hidden courtyard

bursting with bougainvillaea, or the hypnotic swirl of a djembe drummer’s hands.

Everybody here has somewhere to be and something to do. Here bargaining and

haggling is a way of life which brings a different dimension to shopping! There, is an

undeniable energy here, a pulse that beats through the souk and square.

Yet Marrakech is more than the Medina, it’s a modern city with a strong French influence

which can been seen and felt in its architecture and long avenues, its also where

high profile politicians, stars and artists have come to stay and make it their home

and who created pockets of tranquillity which can be enjoyed today in the Jarden

Majorelle when you can sit and enjoy the quiet of this stunning and lovingly created

garden. Just one hour beyond the city, a completely different world awaited.

The Atlas Mountains rise like an ancient fortress and surround Marrakech, their

snow-capped peaks standing in stark contrast to the red soft terracotta city of

Marrakech and the golden deserts beyond. Winding roads carve through rugged

landscapes, revealing terraced Berber villages where the scent of woodsmoke and

freshly baked flatbread fills the crisp mountain air. Hidden within this dramatic terrain

lies the breathtaking Ouzoud Waterfalls, a cascade of rushing turquoise plunging into

lush emerald pools below. The roar of the water echoes through the canyon, yet

utterly serene—a perfect retreat from the hustle of the cities.

Desert Dreams in Agafay

An hour from the whirlwind of Marrakech, the landscape shifts. Buildings fade into a

vast, golden expanse. The Agafay Desert is not the endless dunes of the Sahara,

but its rolling, rocky terrain carries the same stillness. Here, I arrived just in time to

watch the sun sink into the horizon, painting the sky in fiery oranges and dusky

purples, while a small group of camels stood silhouetted against the fading light. The

only sounds? The occasional crackle of the campfire and the whisper of the wind

against our tents, which were our lodgings for the night. This was camping on a

different level, large comfortable beds and a powerful shower, camping I could get

used to. The area is a designated dark sky area, and I was surprised how bright the

stars really are and could of spent the whole night just looking at them.

Mornings in Agafay are even more magical. Sunrise washes everything in a golden

glow, and the air somehow feels fresher, cleaner, untouched. It’s a moment of perfect

stillness—a stark contrast to the vibrancy of the medinas and a perfect start to the

day.

Casablanca: Morocco’s Coastal Powerhouse

On to Casablanca, Morocco’s economic heart, is a city that feels undeniably modern

yet deeply rooted in tradition. It’s a place of contrasts—gleaming skyscrapers stand

beside historic Art Deco buildings, and European-style cafes hum with conversation

just a stone’s throw from centuries-old souks. The scent of the ocean mixes with the

rich aroma of freshly brewed Arabic coffee as locals sip espresso in bustling cafés,

discussing everything from business to football.

The city’s crown jewel is the Hassan II Mosque—a breathtaking masterpiece

perched on the Atlantic coastline. Stepping inside, the coolness of the marble floor

contrasts with the warmth of the sunlight filtering through intricate stained-glass

windows. The scent of cedarwood lingers in the air, while the echo of prayers recited

under the mosque’s soaring ceiling adds a layer of serenity and I felt humbled to be

allowed to visit and see the beauty inside and understand why people are drawn to

it.

Casablanca made famous by the movie named after where hotels and buildings

celebrate its connection to Hollywood and memorabilia can be found almost

everywhere but Casablanca is so much more than a movie. It’s the perfect starting

point for a Moroccan adventure, offering a glimpse into the country’s modern

sophistication while staying true to its roots. It’s noisy, chaotic, modern, traditional

and yet romantic!

Rabat: The Underrated Gem of Morocco

What a contrast to Casablanca as I arrived in Rabat. This is where Morocco’s past

and present coexist in harmony. It’s quieter than Marrakech, yet no less captivating.

The scent of jasmine drifts through its palm-lined avenues reminding me of up

market streets in France, while the distant murmur of waves from the Atlantic

provides a soothing soundtrack. You really get a sense that Rabat is a modern

powerhouse and certainly punches. Everywhere you look you feel the sense that this

city means business and can hold its own on the world stage as a powerful political

seat.

The Kasbah of the Udayas, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, is a vision in

blue and white. As I wandered through its labyrinthine alleyways, I passed artisans

meticulously painting ceramics. Stopping at a small hidden gem of a Riad I enjoyed a

perfectly poured mint tea into delicate glasses, the steam carrying a fragrant

sweetness into the cool sea breeze.

At the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the grandeur of Morocco’s royal history unfolds.

The intricate zellige tilework and marble pillars create an atmosphere of reverence

and peace. Outside, the rhythmic clatter of horse hooves signals the presence of the

ceremonial guards, their crimson and gold uniforms a striking contrast against the

city’s cool, muted tones.

Rabat is a place to slow down and appreciate Morocco’s elegance—less frantic than

Marrakech, yet full of cultural richness and charm.

Taking the high-speed train makes it an easy connection to Tanginer as I followed

the Moroccan coastline.

Tangier: The Gateway Between Continents

Tangier is a city of crossroads—where Europe meets Africa, where the Atlantic

kisses the Mediterranean, where history and modernity dance together. Strolling

along the Corniche, the salty sea breeze in my hair, I understood why artists and

writers have long been drawn to this place. There’s an unpolished charm here, a raw

beauty that contrasts with the manicured riads of Marrakech.

The Café Hafa, a legendary cliffside café, is the perfect place to soak it all in. Sipping

on mint tea, I watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, the distant lights of

Spain flickering across the Strait of Gibraltar. The hum of conversation in a mix of

Arabic, French, and Spanish filled the air, a reminder of Tangier’s cosmopolitan past.

Tangier is an artist’s haven, a literary escape, and a city with an intoxicating blend of

cultures and a great introduction to Morocco.

Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Blue Pearl

An early start as I headed to Morocco’s blue city Tucked away in the Rif Mountains,

Chefchaouen is a dream in shades of blue. Every step through its winding alleys

reveals a new shade—indigo, cobalt, turquoise. It felt like being inside a picture.

Even the air feels different here, fresher, lighter, carrying the faint scent of orange

blossoms and mountain herbs.

The main square is a place that invites lingering—to sip tea on a rooftop terrace, to

browse handcrafted textiles, or simply to lose yourself in the beauty of it all.

Beyond its Instagram-worthy streets, it offers a serene escape from the bustling

cities, perfect for reflection and relaxation.

Fez: A Living Museum of Moroccan Heritage

My final city on this trip was Fez, a city that breathes history, its ancient medina

pulsing with tradition. And what better way to immerse yourself than through its

food?

At Palais Amani, a 5* luxury hidden gem I embarked on a cookery class that was far

more than just a lesson—it was a journey. Accompanied by a local chef, I navigated

the bustling market, carefully selecting the freshest produce while learning the art of

Moroccan bargaining. Back at the riad, we transformed these raw ingredients into a

fragrant, mouthwatering Chicken Tagine, slow-cooked to perfection with a variety of

spices and olives. Each bite was a revelation—rich, spiced, and deeply comforting.

I must also mention Moroccan mint tea. Not just a drink, but a ritual. A symbol of

hospitality, patience, and precision. Pouring the tea from height, watching the tiny

bubbles form at the surface, and inhaling the sweet, minty aroma—it’s an experience

and welcome offering to be savoured and enjoyed whilst in the company of new

friends.

Fez to me is Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, offering an authentic step back in

time.

The Luxury of Tradition: Hammam Bliss

If Morocco engages all the senses, then a traditional hammam experience is the

ultimate indulgence. It was the perfect way to relax and rest before heading home.

After stepping into the steamy, dimly lit chamber, I surrendered to the age-old ritual.

Warm water was poured over me, followed by an exfoliation with black soap that left

me glowing—literally. As I lay back, enveloped in the scent of orange blossom and

eucalyptus, I felt an almost meditative calm and I vowed to do this again or try and

recreate at home.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey

Learn a few basic Arabic or French phrases – A simple "Shukran" (thank you) or

"Bonjour" can go a long way.

Always carry cash (Dirhams) – Many places don’t accept cards, especially in the

souks.

Bring a power bank – Trust me, you’ll drain your phone battery taking photos.

Take the high-speed train – A game-changer for travelling between Casablanca,

Rabat, and Tangier.

Look beyond Marrakech – Every Moroccan city has its own unique charm and story.

Don’t limit yourself to just one.

Your Own Moroccan Escape Awaits

Whether you’re looking for an exclusive riad stay, a private food tour, or a desert

adventure tailored just for you, or you want to stay where I stayed and do some of

the activities or experiences - Morocco has something magical in store.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Download our exclusive Morocco guide or get in

touch for a bespoke itinerary designed just for you.