Yarn Inspirations of Morocco

As the city awakens, your guided tour begins, leading you through the labyrinthine streets to uncover treasures of the past and present. Marvel at the graceful minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, a symbol of Marrakech's timeless beauty, before delving into the opulent halls of the Bahia Palace, where intricate mosaics and lush gardens transport you to a bygone era.

Your exploration culminates in the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square where storytellers and spice merchants weave together the vibrant tapestry of daily life in Marrakech. Our tour continues with a visit to the Dar Si Said Museum, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistry of weaving and carpet-making, showcasing exquisite examples of craftsmanship spanning centuries.

This afternoon we will return to the Riad, where our first workshop with Jane will take place.

We begin the day at the Thiemann Cactus Garden, a hidden gem nestled within the city's landscape, where you will be able to wander through rows of exotic cacti, marvelling at their unique shapes and colours, while learning about their significance in Moroccan culture and craftsmanship.

We will also visit the iconic Majorelle Garden, a botanical paradise beloved by Yves Saint Laurent before spending time at the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, celebrating the designer's love affair with Marrakech and his enduring influence on fashion and creativity. Our day continues as we make our way through the Medina where we will stop at the Dar El Bacha Museum, a former palace showcasing exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship, including intricately woven textiles and ornate furnishings.

Later in the day, you will be able to stroll through the labyrinthine souks and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Moroccan craftsmanship as you browse through the stalls, each offering a glimpse into the rich yarn and textile heritage of the region. You will also have the opportunity to visit a traditional yarn and fabric dyeing workshop where you will be able to witness the dyeing process firsthand, discovering the techniques and traditions that have been passed down through generations and still thrives today within the bustling Medina of Marrakech.

Today we visit the Atlas Mountains for a day filled with natural wonders and Berber hospitality. We begin with a visit to the enchanting Anima Garden, a botanical paradise nestled amidst the foothills of the Atlas Mountains before continuing our ascent into the Ourika Valley, where breathtaking landscapes and authentic Berber hospitality await.

We will visit a women’s co-operative dedicated to weaving and yarn production, from dyeing with natural pigments to skilled hands bringing vibrant colours to life. Lunch will be provided by our hosts at a traditional Berber house where you will be able to enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine before participating in a traditional tea ceremony where you will be able to learn about the art of preparing mint tea; a symbol of hospitality and friendship in Moroccan culture, as you sip from an ornate teacup amidst the serene ambiance of the Berber house terrace.

Our day will conclude by joining local men and women on the terrace for a knitting workshop, where you will be able to share stories and techniques as you knit or crochet alongside your newfound friends!

After a morning workshop with Jane, we depart Marrakech and drive to Morocco’s capital city, Rabat.

Arriving late afternoon, there will be time to freshen up before our early evening guided tour of some of the city’s historic landmarks including the majestic Kasbah of the Oudaias and bustling medina.

This morning, we will continue exploring Rabat's iconic landmarks including the Hassan Tower and the Royal Maisoleum, a solemn but majestic resting place overlooking the city’s skyline, as well as the enchanting Testing Gardens and the alleyways of the Oudaiss Fortress.

This afternoon we will visit the Oulja Handicrafts Center, where you will be able to participate in a weaving workshop under the guidance of two local artisans whose skilled hands weave magic into every thread.

As the afternoon unfolds, we will also visit ‘Dar Sanea’, the House of the Craftsman, nestled within the historic Rabat Medina. Established in 1957 by King Mohammed V to promote Moroccan craftsmanship, this institution serves as a beacon of artistic innovation and cultural heritage.

This morning you will enjoy a workshop with Jane before driving to Fez, the oldest of Morocco’s Imperial Cities. En-route we will make a stop at the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some beautiful mosaics still in place.

Fez is the second largest city in Morocco and forms a crossroads connecting the important cities of the different regions of Morocco, Tangier, Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakesh. The old city is centred around the Fez River and consists of two old Medina quarters which are listed as a World Heritage Site and believed to be one of the world’s largest pedestrian zones.

Since the inception of the city, the tanning industry has been operating in the same fashion as it did in the early centuries. Today we will spend time at the Chouara Tanneries, where time seems to stand still amidst the age-old craft of leather tanning. Witness the vibrant hues and bustling activity of this traditional artisanal quarter, where skilled craftsmen transform raw hides into supple leather using centuries-old techniques. Next, we venture into the world of pottery making as you visit local artisans at work, shaping clay into exquisite vessels and decorative pieces that reflect Fez's rich artistic heritage.

The remainder of the day will be free for you to wander through the streets to see the cultural highlights and the artisanal workshops of weavers, dyers, wood and metal workers.

This morning we depart Fez and drive to Casablanca, tracing the rugged landscapes and coastal vistas that characterize Morocco's diverse terrain. On arrival we will visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque with its soaring minaret and intricate mosaics, standing proudly against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean; a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Casablanca's spiritual heritage.

After checking in to the hotel, the afternoon will be at leisure to explore independently, shop in the souks or stroll along the corniche before we gather for dinner at Rick's Café, inspired by the famous, fictional gin joint in the 1942 film ‘Casablanca’!

Today we take a scenic coastal drive to Essaouira, a coastal gem steeped in history and charm.

En route, there will be a stop in El Jadida, where the echoes of Portuguese influence linger. The journey continues along the picturesque coastline to El Oualidia, a hidden paradise nestled along a tranquil lagoon beloved by fishermen and our location for a light lunch. After lunch we will pass through Safi, known for its vibrant pottery and historic landmarks, before arriving in Essaouira where you will be able to explore the charming streets and bustling souks of this seaside haven.

Today begins with Jane’s penultimate workshop, before making our way to the home of a local family where you will be able to enjoy a traditional lunch and experience the warmth of Moroccan hospitality.

Essaouira is a city steeped in history and artistic charm and, during this afternoon’s sightseeing tour, we will explore its famous port with colourful fishing boats, wander through the fortified city of La Sqala, where time seems to stand still amidst the network of streets and whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant blue accents.

You will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself and find inspiration in this coastal enclave’s thriving art scene, with its eclectic shops and galleries showcasing a diverse array of paintings and local handicrafts around every corner.

Leaving Essaouira, we will visit one of the renowned argan oil co-operatives in the region, where the secrets of this precious oil are revealed by local women. You will be able to learn about the traditional methods used to extract the oil from the nuts of the argan tree, witnessing firsthand how this ancient practice sustains the local economy and empowers communities.

Our journey will continue to Marrakech, where Jane's final workshop will take place at the hotel before dining together at a local restaurant.