Majorelle gardens

The Majorelle Gardens situated in the heart of Marrakech’s fashionable Gueliz district is a botanical and artistic sight to behold, originally designed and constructed by Jacques Majorelle a French expat in 1924 during the colonial period of Marrakech when the area was a French protectorate. It is therefore one of the rare number of European landscaped gardens in Morocco and indeed in Marrakech and is renowned for it’s beautiful array of flora. The gardens in fact house one of the largest collections of rare and exotic plants in North Africa, making them an interesting proposition for anyone interested in plants or indeed anyone who wishes to see a majestic array of interesting and exotic trees and bushes.

The garden is split into a number of sections each featuring a different type of plant. Of particular interest are the water based plants which are interesting to find in such a dry country as Marrakech and look very impressive. Another thing which is particularly enjoyable is the canopy formed by the larger trees which allow individuals to walk around the garden and marvel at the plants whilst staying cool. The Gardens were bought by Yves Saint-Laurent in 1992 and were maintained by him until his death in 2008, there is now a small memorial in the gardens dedicated to his memory which provides a poignant reflection on his life. There is also a museum which at the time of writing was closed for repairs and refurbishments but which will be reopening in September 2011.

The Gardens are also fairly good value for money as they cost 50 dirhams to enter which at the time of writing is around £3, there is also a fairly pleasant café where one can relax and drink a coffee and simply marvel at the horticultural wonders of the gardens. The location of the Gardens is also fairly convenient as it is placed just north of the Medina making it easily to possible to walk there without over-tiring oneself or becoming lost. Our Riads are perfectly situated in the north of the Medina to visit this wonderful botanical garden and to take in the wonderful sights and sounds of the Medina in general. Book a room without delay to enjoy these gardens and the other wonderful sights and sounds that Marrakech has to offer.

Opening Times: Its open every day as the following :
-1st oct to 30th apr from 8h00 to 17h30
-1st May to 30th Sept from 9h00 to 17h00
Entrance fee: Garden 50 dh / Museum : 25dh