A Winter trip to Marrakech (and a boost of serotonin)

If the grey ceiling that has emerged over England is already getting you down, a winter trip to Marrakech could be the perfect antidote. Within three hours you can arrive in a bejewelled city full of vibrant colour : a complete contrast to London fog, an escape from endless news cycles and the daily humdrum. From market chatter to pyramids of cinnamon and grazing camels, it is hard to believe that this intoxicating city is just a hop, skip and a squeezy-jet from our doorstep.

Last year we travelled to Marrakech for three days in November. We left a light dusting of snow at Bristol airport to arrive in the bustling and humid city. Our taxi driver hailed a porter who loaded our bags into a large wheelbarrow and masterfully navigated his way through the winding streets of the Medina to our Riad. These traditional Moroccan homes are built around a central, inward-facing courtyard with a pool of water to keep everyone cool. My favourite aspect of these buildings is the roof terrace, where you can see as far as the Atlas Mountains and experience the magic of the Call To Prayer.

To be honest, my favourite thing to do in this vibrant city is to wander the Medina and soak up the atmosphere. Snag a table at sunset on the top floor of Cafe de France at and watch the locals set up the huge market Jamaa El Fnaa. From dancers to snake charmers, shoe shiners and fruit sellers, all of life is here. The popular Jardins Marjorelle are beautiful but the secret gardens within the city walls are less crowded and have a certain magical quality to them. These highly decorative spaces are beautifully designed with orangeries, ornate pergolas and fountains for locals to enjoy music and escape the hot, busy city. If you are lucky, you might find some tortoises cooling off in a pool. Visitors are not allowed to enter mosques in Morocco, however the Islamic School ‘Medersa Ben Youssef’ is well worth a visit. Built in the 14th Century, it is known for it’s stunning architecture, zellige tiles and intricate carving.

My favourite meal in Marrakesh included chicken tagine with olives and lemons followed by slices of orange and cinnamon, served on the rooftop of our Riad. We had a lovely time guzzling our way around market stalls and cafes in the city. The Ginger cake and Rose and Cardamom Tea (Stall 61, Jamaa El Fnaa) is not to be missed and La Patisserie des Princes serves up the most delicate French pastries including ‘Opera’ and ‘Mille Feuille’ alongside mint tea, poured from height for optimum aeration. If you are ready for some fancy western cocktails, the impeccably styled El Fenn has a beautiful roof top bar and restaurant. Depending on how sturdy your stomach is feeling, there are plenty of different eating options in Marrakech.

I have to say our little trip last year gave us a good boost to get through the darker months. So why not swap your winter blues for Majorelle blue and book a little trip to this ancient trading city? It’s well worth the short trip in the orange and white tin can