Rue Majorelle

02 Nov Rue Majorelle

By Mandy Sinclair

Located just a short walk from Riad 72, Rue Yves Saint Laurent has become one of the leading shopping streets in Marrakech. And it only seems fitting given that this is where Yves Saint Laurent lived while in Marrakech.

Postcard perfect

It may just be the top tourist attraction in Marrakech, attracting 600,000 visitors yearly. While the entrance fee may seem high compared to other sites within Marrakech, but it’s well worth it to wander beneath plants from across the world, admire the various cacti and just sit and enjoy the colourful views in a secure environment.

by Mandy Sinclair

The art-deco house, previously owned by famed Moroccan artist Jacques Majorelle and most recently Yves Saint Laurent, painted in Majorelle blue, houses the Museum of Berber Arts.

Photo provided by Majorelle Gardens

Photo provided by Majorelle Gardens

Opened in 2011 by Mr. Pierre Berge, the collection includes a comprehensive textile and jewelery collections provide interesting insight into the various Berber tribes across Morocco. The museum entrance fee is an additional 25.00MAD.

Did you know?

The Berber language is still spoken throughout many parts of Morocco and has outlived most languages of Antiquity including Ancient Greek, Latin and Egyptian.

Spend it!

American designer Stephen di Renza has recently taken over as the creative director the collection is fabulous. Old coins repurposed into trendy bracelets, leather cushions with dramatic zelig-patterns, colourful cushion covers featuring the famous LOVE posters images make the collection a funky one! Be sure to visit the bookshop for perhaps the best selection of books on Berber culture, Yves Saint Laurent, and Moroccan architecture.

Retail therapy!

Before leaving the area, you’ll want to hit the shops. This street is quickly becoming home to several of the trendiest boutiques in Marrakech.

33 Rue Majorelle

Fashionistas and home décor enthusiasts will not want to miss this place! Spread over two levels, this unique concept store brings together product lines ranging from fashion, beauty products and interior design. Like a high-end department store, the shop features the trendiest designers working in and inspired by Morocco.

And to ensure the collection remains fresh, new designers are featured regularly.

Galerie Birkmeyer

A Marrakech institution, Birkmeyer sells top-quality leather handbags and outerwear in a variety of styles, colours and in both leather and suede. The prices are reasonable and the quality is top.

Heritage Berbere

The selection of wonderfully scented interior perfumes including reed diffusers and room sprays include unique scents including Oud and Dynamic Green Tea. The scents are subtle without being overpowering. They also sell a selection of men’s and women’s perfumes.

A quick bite

Before leaving, head to Kaowa for a light menu featuring fresh salads, fruit smoothies and a traditional Moroccan dish of the day. This is the perfect stop for a fresh bite to eat after having too many tajines.

Darija (Moroccan Arabic) lesson: Kaowa means coffee

Heading home

When the afternoon sun gets too hot and the shopping bags to heavy, why not opt for a horse and carriage for a romantic ride through town? Expect to pay approximately 150.00MAD per hour, but always agree the price before departing.