Marrakech: Awakening the senses in the ochre city

As the sun sets over Marrakech, the fumaroles of the Place Jemaa-el-Fna rise, the Koutoubia lights up and the voice of a muezzin rings out. As the colourful markets begin to empty, Marrakchians head for the bustling heart of the city. The palaces are enveloped in a silence steeped in history. It is here that all the charm of Marrakech seems to awaken after a day spent in the torpor of the sun and the fumes of the cars. Situated at the foot of the High Atlas, the imperial city is divided into several districts. The medina, surrounded by imposing ramparts, is the most authentic. It is here that you will find the main attractions of Marrakech: the souks, the Bahia palace, the Saadian tombs...

This UNESCO-listed site is also full of riads, traditional palatial houses since converted into tourist accommodation. To the west of the old town, the Hivernage district is a residential area with luxury villas and prestigious hotels. To the north, Gueliz is a modern district with a large number of establishments, restaurants, cafés and European-style shops, mainly along Avenue Mohammed IV. Finally, the palm grove, about 10 km from the city centre, covers almost 15,000 hectares. Reduced year by year by tourist speculation, it now contains a large number of hotels and holiday clubs, as well as a prestigious golf course.

For the more active, there is plenty of time for tennis, horse riding, quad biking, karting, hiking, hot air ballooning and skiing on the Atlas peaks. The climate makes Marrakesh a city to discover all year round. In winter, the nights are cool and the sun is generous. In summer, the heat can be stifling, especially with the dry, scorching winds from the Sahara. But that's what the purists will tell you.

Whether you are a family, a couple, a group of friends or a surprise hen party, Marrakech is the destination for you. Only a few hours away by plane, it is easily accessible and offers everything you could wish for. Sun, leisure and intoxicating scents will enchant you in this ochre-coloured city.

The medina, surrounded by imposing ramparts, has retained its authenticity. The old town, with its narrow, colourful streets, is a must. Popular and charming, this is where you will spend most, if not all, of your time. Between its historical monuments, its popular market and its hidden treasures, this district is a real gem that teems with life by day and continues to amaze us at nightfall.

When the dark sky settles over the ochre-coloured city, the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square changes its face and gives way to entertainment and street shows. A cheerful atmosphere hangs in the air and the smell of spices whets the appetite. The stalls are set up around large tables, where locals and tourists mingle to sample a typical homemade dish. A generous traditional cuisine that encourages sharing and conversation.

Often missed, the Ben Youssef medersa (Koranic school) is one of the most fascinating places to visit in the city, with its many tiny student rooms and richly decorated courtyards. You can also visit the Dar si Saïd museum, which houses a collection of everyday objects such as children's swings, wedding dresses, jewellery and carpets.

In a more urban atmosphere, the Guéliz district shows another side of Marrakech. The architecture is more modern, fashion boutiques abound, and the area developed under the French protectorate and originally housed an old market, the existence of which we no longer suspect. It now looks like a new city, more western but just as charming. The Majorelle garden and the Yves Saint Laurent museum are just some of the attractions on offer.

If you feel the need for nature, Marrakech is bordered by a vast expanse of palm trees and other exotic plants. The Palmeraie is a green setting and part of Morocco's natural heritage. It is also the perfect area for quad biking, camel riding or staying in one of the luxurious, tranquil hotel complexes away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located just a few kilometres from the city, the tranquillity is a delight and the change of scenery is total.

If you are a fan of trendy places, head to the Hivernage district. Palaces and luxury boutiques live side by side in this upmarket area in the west of the city. Treat yourself to a pampering break in one of the many hotel complexes, which offer access to the swimming pool, spa centre or even a chef's lunch for the day. In the evening, the attractive shop windows give way to social events. Restaurants organise dinner shows in a setting worthy of Arabian Nights. We loved the one at the Jad Mahal Palace.