An alluring, exciting and colourful country

 
Though only a short distance across the Mediterranean Sea from Spain Morocco is unmistakably African. Rich hues of red, orange and yellow are prevalent everywhere - in the spices laid out in bowls in the souks, on the thick cool stone of the walls, and in the colourful textiles. The country offers an interesting and varied landscape with rugged Atlas Mountains, dense forested areas, arid desert and long coastline. There are an equally absorbing array of cities and towns. Along the coast, visitors head to Art Deco Casablanca to enjoy its cosmopolitan ambiance, to laid-back Essaouira to windsurf from its wide, sandy beach, and to the modern resort of Agadir. Inland Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fna is awash with fresh orange stalls, snake charmers and throngs of people, as is Fez’s tangle of medieval alleyways.

Why Go?
Morocco has so much to offer. From exhilarating treks in the Atlas mountains, to fascinating stays in one of the great cities of Marrakesh or Fes. Enjoy a chilled-out beach holiday in Essaouira or Agadir. Moroccan people are charming and the welcome is always warm, just like the delicious mint tea.

When to Go?
The best time to visit is probably from March to May and from September to November. During this time the temperatures are warm but not stifling as they can be in the summer months. Temperatures do vary from region to region. In winter mountain areas are extremely cold, and snow capped, but warm and pleasant during the day in other areas such as Marrakech and Agadir.

How to get there?
There are direct flights to Marrakech from London Luton, East Midlands, Bristol, London Gatwick, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Direct flights to Agadir operate from London Stansted, Liverpool, London Gatwick and Manchester. Other airports in Morocco include Fez Sais, Tangier Boukhalef and Casablanca Mohamed V. Each of these has a small number of direct flights from the UK.

Must see
Go trekking in the Atlas Mountains, staying overnight in Berber Villages. Soothe yourself in a hamman, the traditional steam bath. Being scrubbed down with black soap and a rough glove is an oddly rejuvenating experience. Visit Marrakech and eat a delicious tagine in one of the restaurants overlooking Jemaa el-Fna. Haggle for some of the beautiful textiles. Stay in a traditional Riad and enjoy their tranquil beauty. Windsurf in Essaouira and savour the town’s charming medina and relaxed ambiance.