Morocco can offer newlyweds one of the most unique honeymoon experiences on earth, thanks to this country’s distinct culture that sets it apart from any other destination in Africa or Europe. Take your pick from beautiful ancient cities, 1550 mi/2500 km of coast, lonesome mountains and storybook desert. Stroll the streets where one of the world’s most romantic movies, Casablanca, was set, let things get steamy in historic hammams, discover an entire valley dedicated to cultivating roses, soak up the 300 days of annual sunshine on the beach or roam the highest dunes of the Sahara by camel. Here are the most romantic destinations in Morocco, and the best things to do in each.
## An Extended Exploration of Morocco: The Perfect Honeymoon Destination
Morocco, a land of vibrant colors, exotic scents, and captivating landscapes, offers an unparalleled setting for a romantic honeymoon. From bustling cityscapes to serene deserts, this North African gem promises an unforgettable experience for couples seeking adventure and intimacy. Let’s embark on a detailed journey through some of Morocco’s most enchanting destinations.
**Overview**
Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you in each location:
| Destination | Reasons to Go |
| —————– | —————————————————————————————— |
| Casablanca | Romantic movie locations, spectacular mosque, and a vibrant introduction to Moroccan culture. |
| Fes | Fantastic medina and souks to wander, a journey back in time, and exquisite craftsmanship. |
| Essaouira | Beautiful beaches, unique architecture, a relaxed coastal atmosphere, and argan oil experiences. |
| Marrakech | Atmospheric architecture, bustling souks, romantic riads, and sensory overload. |
| Atlas Mountains | Morocco’s highest waterfalls, the Valley of the Roses, and breathtaking natural beauty. |
| Sahara Desert | Camel rides across Erg Chebbi dunes, exploration of Ouarzazate, and unforgettable sunsets. |
**Planning Your Moroccan Escape**
Upon arriving in Morocco, chances are your journey will commence in Casablanca, home to the country’s primary international airport. Many visitors then venture eastward towards Fes or southward, delving deeper into the heart of Morocco. If you have approximately ten days to dedicate to your honeymoon, Marrakech serves as an ideal central base. Its strategic location allows for convenient excursions into the majestic Atlas Mountains or thrilling adventures into the expansive Sahara Desert. Furthermore, the charming coastal city of Essaouira is within easy reach from Marrakech.
**Casablanca: Reliving Romance and Admiring Architectural Majesty**
Casablanca, more than just a transportation hub, possesses a certain allure that can capture your heart. Its name evokes images of the iconic romantic movie, *Casablanca,* a classic film set during World War II, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. To truly immerse yourselves in the film’s ambiance, consider visiting Rick’s Cafe, a lavish recreation of the movie’s fictional setting, where Rick Blaine and Ilsa Lund’s love story unfolded. Indulge in delectable seafood or sip on handcrafted cocktails while soaking in the enchanting decor that transports you back to the bygone era of the film.
The city’s most remarkable landmark is undoubtedly the Hassan II Mosque. Perched dramatically on the ocean’s edge, this magnificent mosque stands as the largest in Morocco. The expansive complex encompasses a museum showcasing Islamic art, traditional bathhouses, a Koranic school dedicated to religious education, a comprehensive library, and a vast prayer room capable of accommodating an astounding 25,000 worshippers. The mosque’s intricate design and stunning architecture render it a picturesque destination for people of all faiths. Enhance the romantic ambiance by taking a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade after your visit, allowing you to appreciate the mosque’s grandeur from various perspectives.
As you make your way from downtown Casablanca to the Hassan II Mosque, be sure to explore the intriguing Old Medina, a historic section of the city dating back to the 19th century. Lose yourselves in its labyrinthine lanes, brimming with lively cafes and local shops. Afterward, venture into the Quartier Habous, a neighborhood that showcases a captivating blend of Moroccan and European architectural styles. To satisfy your sweet tooth and create a memorable moment, treat your partner to delectable pastries at Pâtisserie Bennis Habous, a cherished traditional bakery that has been delighting customers since 1930.
**Fes: A Journey Back in Time Within the Medina**
If your itinerary allows for only one exploration of Morocco’s traditional markets, or souks, the Medina of Fes should be your top priority. Stepping through the towering walls of this ancient Medina feels like stepping back in time to the medieval era. As the world’s largest car-free urban area, the Medina offers a unique experience where you and your loved one can wander hand-in-hand through narrow, twisting alleyways, where donkeys serve as the primary mode of transporting goods. Alternatively, find a cozy spot in one of the squares and savor a refreshing mint tea, immersing yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds you.
The labyrinthine souks of Fes are renowned for their exceptional handicrafts, making them a treasure trove for unique souvenirs. Leather goods are particularly abundant and of exceptional quality, catering to those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. Within the Medina, you’ll also discover the tanneries, where fabrics are dyed using age-old techniques, incorporating natural ingredients like pigeon droppings and limestone. The dyed fabrics are then hung to dry on the buildings, creating a colorful spectacle.
For couples with a passion for literature, a visit to the Qarawiyyin Library, located within the Karaouine Mosque complex, is an absolute must. This library is recognized as the oldest library in the world and houses one of the oldest surviving manuscripts ever written on gazelle leather. While the library is not generally open to the public, enlisting the services of a knowledgeable local guide may grant you a privileged glimpse inside.
Escape the bustle of central Fes with a relaxing excursion to Moulay Yakoub, where you and your spouse can indulge in traditional Moroccan bathing rituals in natural hot springs. This serene experience offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate together.
**Essaouira: Basking on the Atlantic Coast**
Essaouira, nestled along Morocco’s extensive 1550-mile coastline, offers nearly 300 days of sunshine each year. This charming coastal town, with its rich hippy history, is one of Morocco’s most alluring beach destinations. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Essaouira is an exceptional example of an 18th-century fortified town. Its name, translating to “little picture” in Arabic, perfectly captures the picturesque backdrop that honeymooners will discover here.
The beach stands out as Essaouira’s primary attraction. Its expansive sandy expanse, relatively uncrowded atmosphere, and unique blend of kitesurfers and camels create a harmonious and captivating scene. Spend quality time with your loved one at Place Moulay El Hassan, savoring a platter of freshly grilled seafood. Explore the clifftop bastion of Skala de la Ville, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Consider a visit to an argan oil cooperative, such as the one located outside El Hanchane, approximately 21 miles east of Essaouira. Witness the fascinating process of argan oil production, as goats playfully climb into the trees to consume the argan fruits, excreting the pits that are then collected, crushed, and pressed to extract the precious oil. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase argan oil products directly from the source.
**Marrakech: Relaxing in a Romantic Riad**
Marrakech, a superstar among Moroccan destinations, guarantees a honeymoon filled with unforgettable memories. This vibrant city stimulates all the senses, showcasing a dazzling array of fortresses, palaces, minarets, museums, squares, and souks.
Your Marrakech experience begins with selecting the perfect accommodation. A stay in a riad, a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard, is the quintessential city experience. From the outside, riads often appear unassuming, with their simple wooden doors. However, stepping inside reveals breathtaking courtyard gardens that provide serene and secluded escapes from the city’s lively atmosphere.
Your exploration of Marrakech must include a visit to the Medina and its captivating souks. Here, you’ll find an abundance of treasures, ranging from traditional babouches (slippers) to intricate lanterns and exquisite carpets. Engaging in the art of haggling for a special gift in one of the colorful alleyways is a memorable way to surprise your loved one with a unique souvenir.
Wander through the vibrantly blue-painted Jardin Majorelle, an oasis boasting over 300 plant species, creating a vibrant display of cactuses, bamboo, and cascading fountains. Explore the mysterious Fondouks area, located north of the Medina. These courtyards, once essential caravanserais along the Trans-Saharan caravan route, served as havens for merchants laden with silks, spices, and precious gems.
Enhance the romantic ambiance with a horse-drawn carriage ride, perhaps venturing around the ritzy Palmeraie, a palm oasis of luxurious retreats situated just outside the city. Allow yourselves to be captivated by the resonant call to prayer emanating from mosques like Koutoubia five times per day, creating one of the most moving sounds you can experience in Morocco. Outside the Koutoubia Mosque, beautiful gardens invite you and your loved one to linger and enjoy the tranquility. For a romantic interlude, consider a hammam experience tailored for couples, such as the upmarket Les Bains de Marrakech.
**Atlas Mountains: Waterfalls and Roses**
Flanking Marrakech on two sides, the majestic Atlas Mountains extend for approximately 620 miles across Morocco, showcasing jagged Jurassic peaks. Here, you and your spouse can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourselves in peaceful and pristine surroundings.
About 100 miles northeast of Marrakech lie Morocco’s highest waterfalls, the tranquil Cascades d’Ouzoud. At this popular destination, cascades gracefully plunge down a gorge, creating a picturesque spectacle. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pools at the base of the falls, or embark on a scenic boat ride.
The romantic highlight of a visit to these mountains is a trip to the town of Kalaat M’Gouna, located 177 miles southeast of Marrakech, and the nearby Valley of the Roses. A rose festival is held in the town every May, celebrating the importance of the flower, which is cultivated throughout the valley. The dramatic journey up the valley to Bou Tharar showcases green valley floors and towering red rock cliffs. The best time to visit is in April or May, when the roses are in full bloom and being harvested.
The Atlas Mountains are dotted with poignant kasbahs (fortifications), such as the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Aït Benhaddou in the Telouet Valley. These historic structures offer a wonderful opportunity to pause with your partner and appreciate the scale and scenery of this mighty mountain range.
**Sahara Desert: Love Under the Stars**
Few settings can match the otherworldly backdrop of the Sahara Desert for a romantic honeymoon. The most popular excursion originates from the village of Merzouga, from where you can embark on a camel tour of the swooping amber dunes of Erg Chebbi, the tallest dunes in the Sahara. Some of these sandy summits reach over 650 feet high, providing a breathtaking vantage point for watching magnificent desert sunsets, a romantic experience that you will treasure forever. For a similar experience with fewer crowds, consider camel-riding and sunset-watching in the wilder Erg Chigaga near M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the Sahara’s largest unspoilt area of dunes.
In the western desert, 120 miles southeast of Marrakech, you’ll find the city of Ouarzazate, known as the “door to the desert” and a major movie set for Hollywood blockbusters like *Gladiator* and *Lawrence of Arabia*. From here, you can take excursions to see petroglyphs, beautiful desert oases like Fint Oasis, and stunning swimming spots such as at Tizgui Waterfall.
Morocco offers an array of experiences that cater to every couple’s desires, from romantic cityscapes to breathtaking natural wonders. This enchanting destination promises a honeymoon filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories.
B-1606