Morocco has its roots in Africa, its history entwined with Spain, France and Portugal, and its face turned towards Europe. It is a vast country of beautiful and contrasting regions and everchanging light and colours and is, astonishingly, less than a four hour flight away.

But from the deserts and green oases of the Saharan south, to the forests of the Rif in the north; from the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the long sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast; what makes such an impact is Morocco’s astonishing diversity. With its rich cultural heritage and enviable climate, Morocco is a country that can be visited all year round and over and over again, each time to explore and experience new aspects.

As the landscape changes so do the people and so does the way of life, always welcoming, yet with very differing costumes, architecture, food and a different spirit of place. And the dramatic shifts in scenery support an equally rich range of wildlife, much of which seems to have come straight from an old oriental painting: eagles, kites, falcon, storks and ibis can all be seen in Morocco, as can jackals, apes, gazelle, wild boar and Barbary sheep.

Then there are the dense and ornate Imperial Cities of Rabat, Marrakech and Fès and the wonderful white and bluepainted houses of Essaouira, clustering by the sea.

Perhaps the most breath-taking introduction to Morocco is in the labyrinthine Medina, the walled town at the heart of many cities. In its narrow lanes the sights, noises and scents of an ancient way of life, of workshops, souks and family houses and centuries-old palaces hidden behind great doors, are quite unlike anything else in Europe.

But whether sleeping under the stars in the desert, bartering in a market or relaxing in the perfumed steam of a hammam, Morocco welcomes every traveller with its age-old hospitality and its fascinating and multi-layered culture.

Romantic Riads
Enjoy a lazy breakfast on the patio with just the peaceful sounds of birds and tinkling water.

Trekking
A desert trek is a challenge, yet so rewarding. Experience the silence, immense space and the wonderful solitude.

Cities and Culture
Immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of the Imperial Cities before exploring the souks to shop for tradtional crafts, spices and rosewater.