Ultimate Wellness: Soulful Journeys Morocco

This morning after breakfast, transfer to Essaouira. En route, you will explore the world of Moroccan wines with a visit and lunch at the vineyard and winery, Val d'Argan. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a tour of the vineyard and facilities where five ranges of wine are produced: red, white, rosé, gris, and the most recent orange. Learn about the different kinds of grapes, what it is like to grow vines in Morocco, and how the production process works. Then, use your newfound knowledge to pair wines with delicious local food served on the patio.

After lunch and a short drive, visit an argan oil cooperative where you will observe how it is made, by women who are preserving this ancestral practice in the modern world. You will learn more about cosmetics and products created from argan oil, and receive a surprise gift.

Continue to Essaouira, a city with a distinct multicultural feel resulting from Portuguese, French and Jewish populations that once called it home. Its mild climate and extensive stretches of ocean sand also place it among Morocco's top beach towns. Essaouira's walled medina was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list in 2001. Its well-preserved, late-18th-century fortified layout is a prime example of European military architecture in North Africa. For visitors, the mellow atmosphere, narrow winding streets lined with colorful shops, whitewashed houses, and heavy old wooden doors make it a wonderful place to stroll.

At 7:00 AM, start your day with a refreshing 1-hour yoga session on the beach, allowing the sound of the waves and the morning breeze to enhance your practice. Afterward, return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast.

Following lunch, embark on an exciting adventure off the beaten path with a semi-electric mountain bike tour to the small villages and lovely beaches of Essaouira. Whether you choose to ride alone or with a passenger on a quad bike, you'll explore the scenic roads around Essaouira for a cultural outing and a thrilling adventure lasting about 1.5 hours.

The ride begins with a brief introduction to teach you how to maneuver the four-wheeled quad. You'll then cross the village of Diabat towards Cape Sim, riding along the beach and passing close to a small fishing village and a fresh water source. At Cape Sim, enjoy the fun and challenge of its beautiful dunes, which stretch out as far as the eye can see and are perfect for quad biking circuits.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, feeling invigorated and enriched by the day's experiences.

After breakfast, say farewell to Essaouira and set off to explore the majestic High Atlas Mountains, where traditional Amazigh villages and picturesque valleys await. Your journey takes you to Imlil, a charming village renowned for its abundant fruit trees, including apples, walnuts, almonds, and peaches. Imlil serves as a hub for mountain trekkers and adventure seekers.

Upon arrival, prepare for an easy trek, with a mule available to ride to the hilltop. Here, you will be warmly greeted by a local family and invited into their home to share a traditional Amazigh lunch, featuring homemade bread and refreshing mint tea. With the help of your guide, take the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with the family, gaining insights into their fascinating way of life and rich cultural heritage.

Spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner and an overnight stay at the kasbah, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the High Atlas Mountains.

After breakfast, drive to The Bennounas Farm, a Berber-style modern villa set in a spectacular location in the valley of Ourika, with the Atlas Mountains as a stunning backdrop. Azzeddine and Marie will be your gracious hosts for the rest of your journey. They will escort you to your room and give you a tour of the beautiful property, showcasing its unique blend of traditional and modern elements.

After a delightful lunch, head to the serene meditation room for a 45-minute introductory session on Buddhist philosophy, where you'll deepen your understanding of wisdom and mindfulness. At 4:30 PM, join a cooking class where you will uncover the secrets of Moroccan cuisine with your host, the renowned 3-star New York Times Chef Azzeddine Bennouna. The food you prepare will be served for dinner, accompanied by a glass of fine wine.

This enriching activity includes a bread-making demonstration by a native Amazigh woman, allowing you to learn the traditional techniques firsthand. You will also prepare a classic Moroccan dish, immersing yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Overnight at the farm, enjoying the tranquility and hospitality of your hosts, and reflecting on the day's enriching experiences.

After breakfast, at 9:00 AM, enjoy a rejuvenating 1-hour yoga session on the terrace, where the fresh morning air and stunning views of the surrounding landscape will enhance your practice. Following yoga, take a leisurely walk in the countryside to discover the daily life of the Berbers. Along the way, you may encounter a shepherd tending to his lambs, a man riding his donkey laden with hay or branches, or women with their children walking to school, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

After your walk, enjoy some me-time by the pool, soaking up the serene atmosphere. A light lunch will be served, followed by a relaxing hammam and massage session to soothe your body and mind.

In the afternoon, meet Hyatt, a local woman highly skilled in the art of henna tattoo. Although henna is traditionally applied to the hands or feet, you may choose to have it applied to any part of your body, such as your ankle, calf, or shoulder. Please note that henna application is not recommended if you have sensitivity to citrus or aromatic oils.

In the evening, savor a special farewell dinner prepared by the Chef, celebrating the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Reflect on the day's enriching experiences as you enjoy your meal, and then retire for an overnight stay at the farm, feeling relaxed and fulfilled.

Depart the farm for Marrakech airport and farewell to your wonderful Morocco experience.