Yasmine El Idrissi · 7 min · Culture
Beyond the souks, Marrakech's gardens and historic palaces offer some of the most beautiful spaces in Morocco.
The most-visited garden in Morocco, Majorelle was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle over 40 years and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. The cobalt-blue villa set against vivid yellow, pink and terracotta planting is one of Morocco's most photographed scenes. Visit before 10am to avoid the midday crowds.
Located on the western edge of the medina, the Menara's 100-hectare olive grove surrounds a 12th-century reservoir and an iconic green-roofed pavilion. The early-morning reflection of the Atlas Mountains in the still water has been painted and photographed for centuries. The garden is free and far less crowded than Majorelle.
Built in the late 19th century for the Grand Vizier of Morocco, Bahia Palace (meaning "brilliance") covers 8,000m² of elaborately decorated rooms, courtyards, and gardens. The carved stucco, painted ceilings, zellige tilework, and cedar woodwork represent some of the finest traditional Moroccan craftsmanship surviving intact.
The Saadian Tombs were sealed by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 18th century and rediscovered only in 1917 — their decorative quality is remarkable. El Badi Palace, also 16th century, was largely dismantled to build Meknes and now consists of atmospheric ruins and nesting storks. Both are in the southern medina near the Royal Palace.
Entry to the botanical garden is 150 MAD (approx $15); combined with the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is 250 MAD. Opening hours are 8am–6pm (October–April) and 8am–6:30pm (May–September).
The Menara is most atmospheric early morning or at sunset when the Atlas Mountains reflect in the famous pavilion pool. Entry is free. The olive groves surrounding the pavilion are a pleasant, uncrowded alternative to the busy central medina.
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