Marrakech and Essaouira Beach

Combine city and seaside on this 10-night trip, beginning in colourful, chaotic and captivating Marrakech. Meander through the labyrinthine souks, sip fresh orange juice or sweet mint tea in Djemaa el-Fna square, and perhaps join a Moroccan cooking class. You’ll stay in an adults-only hotel a few kilometres south of the historic Medina. Built in the style of a traditional riad, the hotel wraps around a central courtyard that houses a fantastic pool – it’s the perfect retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. A three-hour drive brings you to the coast, where you’ll stay in the breezy beach town of Essaouira. Your hotel has a lovely pool and the beach on its doorstep, but make sure you save time to explore the Medina, the historic ramparts and the fishing port (all around 20 minutes’ walk away). There are plenty of restaurants to sample, many serving fish caught earlier that morning.