Staying cool in Marrakech

Staying cool in Marrakech

Jul 15 - 2015

15 Jul Staying cool in Marrakech

To say it’s hot in Marrakech these days would be an understatement. And with special offers available, fewer tourists and great restaurants to enjoy, it’s certainly not a reason to stay away. We are adjusting our days to make the most of the cooler moments and sharing our tips to beat the heat when the sun is at its strongest.

Relax poolside

When the heat is just too much, cool off by the pool. Whether a relaxing afternoon at the Beldi Country Club, an upscale Sunday brunch and dip in the pool at the Selman Palace, or a lively day at Nikki Beach, this is one sure way to beat the soaring temperatures.

Escape Marrakech, for a day

Head out and explore the local countryside. The views of Lalla Takerkoust are as stunning as the scenic route leading to this man-made lake. Once there, head to Jnane Tahiht,  the ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying a farm-fresh lunch. Then perhaps hire a jet-ski or pedal boat for some fun on the lake. The best part? It’s less than hour from Marrakech.

Further afield are the stunningly beautiful Cascades D’Ouzoud in the Atlas Mountains where the refreshing mist from the plunging waterfalls is a welcome treat from trekkers enjoying the views. Expect to spend a significant amount in the car as travel time is approximately 2.5 hours each way.

Wander through Marrakech’s lushest gardens

Marrakech’s grande dame, La Mamounia, may have the lushest gardens in town and are worth a visit to wander and admire the towering palm trees and enjoy a cocktail in the shade. Pop artist Julien Marinetti’s large bronze sculptures of bulldogs, panda bears, ducks and penguins are on display throughout the hotel and gardens, adding to the lush atmosphere.

Sip and enjoy

Nothing is more refreshing than a nice cold mid-afternoon drink. Beer lovers should try locally brewed Casablanca, a smooth beer that pairs perfectly with a selection of herbed olives and roasted nuts.

We suggest wine lovers opt for a bottle of Moroccan gris. Prepared using red grapes, this grey-coloured wine pairs perfectly with a selection of cheeses made at the cheese cooperative in Essaouira and served as an aperitif at Riad Living with a bottle of Domaine de Sahari Gris. For rose lovers, we suggest Medallion Rose or explore the Essaouira wine scene with a bottle of Gazelle de Mogador White.

Dress for the weather

One question we are asked regularly about is appropriate attire for hot summer days in Marrakech. For women, shirts with cap sleeves and longer shirts and skirts are appropriate. That said, given the heat, we love the flowy kaftans and gandouras from Norya ayroN’s shop located inside Le Jardin and also Kaftan Queen on Avenue Mohamed Beqal in Gueliz. For sun hats, head to Le Chapelier located next to Kaftan Queen and also available at concept stores throughout Morocco for a colourful selection.

Gentlemen, shorts and t-shirts are absolutely suitable, however many guests tend to go local and pick up a kaftan for wandering through the souks of Marrakech!

Reveal a new skin

With the temperature in this steam bath reduced and a gentle scrub for sun-soaked skin, the hammam is the surest way to scrub away the unwanted effects of sunbathing.

Eat fresh

When the temperatures climb, appetites tend to decrease. With an abundance of juice bars throughout Marrakech, stopping for a peach, orange or strawberry juice is a great way to rehydrate. Locals flock to  Try al fresco dining at one of our favourite medina restaurants.

Cool off with ice-cream

Marrakech has no shortage of ice-cream parlours making their own sundaes, gelato, and sorbet. After a bit of shopping on Rue de la Liberte in Gueliz, treat yourself to an authentic Italian gelato at Panna on Rue de Yougoslavie. Choose from refreshing fruit, nut and chocolate flavours while enjoying in the air-conditioned cafe.

Back in the medina, Cafe Clock makes their own sorbet in house using in-season fruits, served either on the shaded patio or up on the rooftop terrace. Concerts and storytelling are regular events here and perfect for enjoying on summer evenings.

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