8-Day Break

Day 1 – Fly to Marrakech, where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel  D
Day 2 – Essaouira (included). An early start today, as we head to Essaouira. The ‘Purple Islands’ off the coast were used by the Romans for the dying of their togas and we explore the old Medina, which has changed little since its Portuguese occupants left. Perfectly preserved mazelike streets lead to tranquil squares lined with whitewashed houses in this charming unspoilt resort. We continue up the coast to our overnight hotel in Safi, a town famous for its potteries B, D
Day 3 – EI Jadida, Casablanca (included). After spending some of the morning in Safi, we continue north along the coast, past Qualidia to El Jadida, with its Portuguese cisterns. We continue further north to Casablanca, where we visit the interiors of the famous Hassan II Mosque, built on a promontory and second only in size to the famous Mosque in Mecca. We then enjoy an orientation of the city taking in the Habbous area and the Corniche. B, D
Day 4 – Rabat, Meknes and Volubilis (included). Head to Rabat, the Imperial Capital, where we visit the exteriors of the Royal Palace and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. We also visit the Tour Hassan, sister to the Giralda in Spain, and the Oudayas. Afternoon finds us in the old capital of Meknes. Sometimes called the ‘Versailles of Morocco’, Meknes owes its stunning monuments and heritage to the Sultan Moulay Ismail, who made this city his crowning jewel. We stop at the famous Bab Mansour (Bab in Arabic means gate) before going to Volubilis, where we experience a window into Morocco's Roman past. It houses some of the bestpreserved mosaics in the world. Continue to Fez for two nights. B, D
Day 5 – Fez (included). A full day today exploring Fez, the cradle of Moroccan civilisation and home to the oldest university in the world. Our day begins in the old Medina with Fez El Bali – old Fez – the Andalusian and the Karaouine quarter with its dyers, tanners and artisans working in the style of their forefathers. As the day progresses we take in the Mellah – the Jewish quarter, with its old cemetery and the Royal Palace. A fascinating day! Please note, this day consists mainly of walking and surfaces can be uneven in the old city. B, D
Day 6 – Middle Atlas (included). Leaving Fez, we continue to Beni Mellal via Ifrane with its almost Alpine scenery. We then pass through the cedar forest region of Azrou before crossing the Middle Atlas and arriving at our hotel in Bin El Ouidane for an overnight stay B, D
Day 7 – Marrakech (included); Folklore Evening (optional). This morning we take in the Cascades of Ouzoud and some stunning scenery in the Middle Atlas before we leave for Marrakech. Marrakech is a labyrinth of winding alleyways and souks awash with street sellers, historical sites and the fabulous Djemaa el-Fna square with its fortune tellers, dancers, snake charmers and water sellers. This square really is the heart of Marrakech. Wander by the stalls or just sit in one of the roof top cafés surrounding the square. Enjoy this incredible picture postcard – a living theatre with the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop before returning to our hotel. To complete your Moroccan adventure tonight you can enjoy an optional dinner and folklore evening. B,
Day 8 – Transfer to the airport and flights home B

Included Meals: B=Breakfast D=Dinner

Accommodation

All hotels in Morocco, will be 3 or 4-star standard. The first and last nights will be at the Hotel Tichka in Marrakech.

You’ll stay for one night at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Safi, followed by one night at the Hotel Kenzi Basmaa in Casablanca.

Two nights will then be spent at the Hotel Sofia in Fez. In Bin El Quidane you’ll stay overnight at a 4-star hotel.

Please note: on some occasions other hotels of a similar standard may be used.

Extras
Optional Excursions.
Single Room Supplement: £149
Travel Insurance from £40.95

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing.