Top Attractions in Marrakech Green City

Jardin Majorelle, Koutoubia Mosque, Menara and Aguedal Gardens

Apr 3, 2009

At the foot of the Atlas, the walled city of Marrakech is a lush oasis where orange trees leave their scent all around and birds twitter in traditional gardens.

A favourite retreat for royals and visitors, Marrakech has made substantial efforts in recent years to turn itself into Morocco’s greenest city. Princess Lalla Meryem, the king’s sister, invested much time and money to upgrade oases and gardens and the people of Marrakech are hugely proud of their city.

Lawns, roses and citrus trees enhance the legendary red ramparts while lofty palms stand silhouetted against the blue sky. On the edge of town, the vast expanse of the Palmeraie is a delightful place to explore by horse drawn carriage but visitors will find many of Marrakech top green attractions right at the heart of the city.

A newly redesigned park leads to the Koutoubia Mosque, a pleasant alternative to the busy avenue running alongside it. Besides computerised information points, its greatest assets are shade, greenery and cool white marble seats. There are flowering hedges, orange and olive trees, mimosa, pink almond blossom and neatly raked paths of bright red earth.

The nearby Koutoubia Mosque Islamic Gardens are at their best in the late afternoon when the scent of roses and orange blossom fills the air and the minaret glows red and gold in the setting sun.

Marrakech Green City, Menara and Aguedal Gardens

Marrakech Menara Gardens are vast olive groves south of town where sultans once entertained their concubines and occasionally tossed them into the lake. The large 12th century reservoir mirrors the restored pavilion, framed by the snowy Atlas in winter. Olives are harvested from October to January and there are dromedary rides and a couple of stalls selling drinks and snacks.

The royal grounds of the Aguedal Gardens are a lovely place to stroll in the shade among orchards and vineyards, glancing at artificial lakes where former sultans held fabulous parties. There are views of the Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas by clear weather. Set at the back of the royal palace, the gardens are closed when the king is in residence.

Top Attraction in Marrakech, Jardin Majorelle

This small but unusual Islamic garden was designed by French artist Majorelle in the early 20th century and later restored by fashion designer and Marrakech resident Yves St Laurent. Following the traditional pattern, the Jardin Majorelle unfolds like a painting with giant cacti and bamboo, palms, bougainvillea and a whole array of bright terracotta pots expressing an undisguised love of colour. There are fountains and pools, water channels and a beautiful lily pond with fabulous reflections, reminiscent of Monet Giverny Gardens.

Plants from the five continents are on display and the Jardin Majorelle is a haven for birds. The house and museum are painted a rich Majorelle blue, contrasting with red soil and paved paths. The museum is dedicated to Yves St Laurent’s collection of Islamic Arts and well worth the extra entrance fee.

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