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Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco

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Most of the fun exploring Marrakech is derived from the hub-bub that is the souk and medina – a boisterous bliss of street vendors, hawkers and traders, all keen to invite you in to sample their wares in return for some of your (likely) hard-earned cash. Whilst enjoyable at first, after several visits navigating the souk’s nooks, it can sometimes take its toll on you, and you just want to escape to somewhere a tad more tranquil and calmer. With this in mind, we discovered Le Jardin Secret on our most recent trip to Marrakech.

Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post
Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post

Literally an ornate ‘oasis’ of calm, with its beautifully manicured palm-trees and wonderful water-features, the Jardin actually isn’t that much of a secret and can be found easily on a side-street (Rue Mouassine) around a 5 to 10 minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa.

After 8 years of painstaking restoration, the Jardin Secret and resurrected palace reopened to the public in 2016. Although development of the Moussaine district started in the sixteenth century, the palace that forms the basis of the Le Jardin Secret was built in the nineteenth century and passed through several owners until it became empty and fell into a severe state of disrepair in the 1930s, before coming back to live with the latest restoration.

Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post
Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post
Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post

After paying your 60 Dirhams entrance fee, you’re welcomed into the gloriously green gardens, which are divided into a traditional Islamic garden and an area devoted to more exotic species – the latter has plant species from all over the globe – you also notice that the flora and fauna has a cooling effect as you enter, almost protecting you from the surrounding heat and humidity.

Symmetry fans will also love the garden, with the straight pathways, reflections in the ponds and magnificent mosaic tiled walkways – alas, for this beauty, you also have to endure Instagram wannabies and insufferable selfie takers, staking their claim to the picturesque benches, trying to find that perfect photo (if they haven’t got it after the fiftieth attempt, they probably never will – but hey, c’est la vie…)

Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post
Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post
Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post

Once you’ve explored the grandiose gardens, explore the lower levels of the former palace and watch the short film about the origins of the palace. Then head up the narrow dark stairs to the café, with a glorious outdoor seating area (complete with parasols) directly overlooking the garden. After a hot day exploring Marrakech’s medina, we can think of no better way to escape the hustle and hubris of the surrounding area than with a cup of mint tea surveying the Secret Jardin here. Served in a traditional way with the ‘silver’ teapot, tray and glasses, this is a serene way to spend an afternoon.

Le Jardin Secret: An oasis in Marrakech, Morocco blog post

The irony of writing a blog about Le Jardin Secret and promoting it to the masses isn’t lost on us but this is this was one of the highlights of our entire Morocco trip so do take time to discover this garden gem on your next Marrakech adventure.

Le Jardin Secret opening hours

Address: 121 Rue Mouassine, Marrakesh 40030, Morocco
Opening hours: everyday 9:30am–6:30pm

Other Morocco posts


Marrakech accommodation

Here are some highly rated accommodation options:

Budget

Riad Dia
Hostel located in a traditional Moroccan house with sunny courtyard, swimming pool and free breakfast. Organised activities range from cooking classes to local Gnaoua music nights. Check out prices and availability for Riad Dia

Dream Kasbah
Hostel that uses used recycled materials to create an eco-friendly haven with rooftop terrace, free breakfast and events such as cooking classes. Check out prices and availability for Dream Kasbah

Mid range

Riad El Youssoufi
Riad located a 15-minute walk from Jamaâ El Fna Square with air conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi and a terrace with a view of the Mosque. Check out prices and availability for Riad El Youssoufi

Riad Alwachma
Riad located within the Medina of Marrakech with massage room, hammam and a terrace with views over the Atlas Mountains and Koutoubia Mosque. Check out prices and availability for Riad Alwachma

Luxury

Riad Dar Anika
Beautiful riad with traditional Moroccan decor, courtyard swimming pool and a terrace with views of the medina. Check out prices and availability for Dar Anika

Riad Kheirredine
Traditional riad with plunge pool, hammam and a terrace with panoramic views of the Medina and Atlas Mountains. Check out prices and availability for Riad Kheirredine


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