Travel Diary - Marrakech
Marrakech is a city of contrasts - blue skies vs pink walls, bustling streets vs pin-drop quiet riads and wealth vs poverty. Opulent hotels sit behind tiny little doors on seemingly deserted back streets and the most incredible food can be found in the modest cafes sandwiched between mobile phone shops and tyre-fitter’s workshops.
I spent 3 days in Marrakech earlier this year, travelling with my dear friend Emma and shooting the new Wildling Woman range. We had a packed schedule but the pace and energy of the city carried us on its back whilst our riads allowed for deep rest in the moments it was available.
Where to stay:
Ryad Dyor which is on the outskirts of the medina and walking distance to the the souks and sights. This incredible boutique hotel is brimming with quiet corners for relaxing, sunbathing, cooling off and deep conversations. Breakfast on the rooftop was the highlight of my entire trip and the staff were warm and welcoming.
Around 15 mins out of the city in Oumnas is Berber Lodge - for those looking for a traditional village feel with views over the mountains and hiking trails in the immediate surroundings.
Where to eat:
Whatever your preference, you are spoiled for choice but I’m going to talk about my recommendations for vegan food. My favourite was the unassuming Earth Cafe, tucked away amidst the vast, modern restaurants around Jemaa El Fna. Everything here is grown on the Earth Cafe farm just outside Marrakech and is incredibly tasty and inexpensive.
We also ate at Nomad which is smack-bang in the middle of the medina above winding alleyways of souks and difficult to find. Head to the Place De Epices and look-up, you’ll see it. This restaurant offers Modern Morrocan with an emphasis on local produce but there are wonderful vegan options. Book ahead if you want to sit on the rooftop… it gets busy.
