Marrakech
silk and spice
In our series of destination insights we feature programme ideas, activities and venues that we believe represent the best that Marrakech has to offer. We hope that this provides a basis from which we can work with you to develop a programme that works best for your people, your business and fits your budget.
Remember that here at eventwise we pride ourselves in designing unique programmes and developing ground-breaking ideas, so this insight is just a taster of what may be possible for
Marrakech overview
Morocco is one of the closest exotic destinations to Europe and the United States. It has been thoroughly mythologized, and for good reason. Travellers extol the country's unique living history, its shimmering light and its extraordinary art.
Morocco is the ideal starting point for the traveller to Africa. An easy hop from Europe, it is hectic but also friendly and stimulating. Open-air markets throughout the country are piled high with rugs, woodwork, jewellery and leather - said to be the softest in the world.
One of Morocco's most important cultural centres, Marrakech is a lively former capital famed for its markets and festivals. Its wildly beating heart is the Place Djemaa el-Fna, a huge square in the old city. Rows of open-air food stalls are set up here and mouth-watering aromas fill the air. Jugglers, storytellers, snake charmers, magicians, acrobats and assorted benign lunatics take over the rest of the space. The souqs (markets) here are among the best in Morocco and a great place to challenge guests for an exciting bargain hunt.
Marrakech is a truly exotic destination surprisingly easy to reach from Europe. The hotels, restaurants and activities are all of a very high standard and the impact on the guests is always favourable.
getting there
From London and Paris there are direct scheduled flights to Marrakech. There are also frequent scheduled and charter flights from Europe, Canada, the Middle East and West Africa to Casablanca with connecting flights to Marrakech.
where to stay
The Palmeraie Golf Palace & Resort *****10 minutes away from the city centre, in the protected palm grove of Marrakech, the deluxe Palmeraie Golf Palace & Resort is surrounded by a beautiful 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones and overlooked by the snow-capped Atlas Mountains.
With 314 deluxe bedrooms, including 38 suites, this lovely property is built in traditional Moroccan palace style, peaceful, relaxed and highly hospitable.
The hotel has excellent meeting facilities as well as 8 restaurants offering both national and international dining. For the night owls in the group, there is even a nightclub on site open into the wee hours.
The Palmeraie Golf Palace & Resort is beautifully situated giving a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle of central Marrakech.
programme example
Day one Departure of flights to Marrakech. Arrival into Marrakech Airport. Our representative will be waiting to meet you Transfer to the Palmeraie Golf Palace Resort. Arrive at the hotel, lunch on the terrace. Check in to the hotel, keys will be distributed and your luggage will be in your room. Afternoon at leisure, time to enjoy the facilities of the Hotel or explore Marrakech. Meet in the hotel lobby and transfer to Djemaa El Fna Square. On arrival you will have time to explore the square and take in the magical atmosphere. Meet at the designated drop off point in the square and transfer by caleche to Yacout Restaurant. Arrival at Yacout, pre dinner drinks on the roof terrace. Dinner at the most famous restaurant in Marrakech – ‘Yacout'. After dinner you will have the opportunity to visit Pacha or transfer back to the hotel. Overnight at the Palmeraie Golf Palace Resort.Day two Breakfast at leisure. Meet in the hotel lobby. Today you will be visiting the Atlas Mountains and experiencing a different side to Morocco. We will be travelling in 4x4 jeeps and experiencing some rough terrain. Please make sure you wear comfy foot wear as we will be walking up a rugged path to lunch. We also recommend you take a jumper or coat as it can be cold up in the Mountains. Depart the hotel for the Atlas Mountains. Refreshments will be available on board the jeeps. Visit a local Berber house for mint tea. Arrival at Kasbah Toubkal for lunch. Depart Kasbah Toubkal and return to the hotel. Arrival at the hotel, time at leisure. Meet in the hotel lobby for a short walk to the Nikki Beach. Pre dinner drinks. Dinner at Nikki Beach. Overnight at the Palmeraie Golf Palace Resort.Day three Breakfast at leisure. Morning at leisure. Meet in the hotel lobby and transfer to Marrakech for a city tour. Lunch to be taken at Le Marrakechi in the main square. Afternoon in the souks. Return transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby and board the coach to transfer to Marrakech airport. Arrival at Marrakech airport and check in. Flights departs Marrakech.how much?
An indication of the likely cost of the programme as outlined above is £950 + UK VAT per person based on the following criteria:
A group of 120 people. Travel in July 2009. Economy class air travel. Sharing twin accommodation. All activities mentioned above are included. The group would be accompanied by two eventwise travel directors. Half bottle of wine p/p and soft drinks are included with meals.For more information about Marrakech please contact our international event design team on +44 (0)207 378 2900, or send us an e-mail to people@eventwise.co.uk