Postcard from Marrakesh

Marrakesh, one of the jewels of North Africa, has a lot going for it, including the tennis. It’s a vitamin D enriching trip—great for autumn, winter, and spring breaks—that’s easily and quickly reached from Europe. Plenty of hotels and resorts allow you to practice your tennis or even golf swing in between ducking off to visit the desert for overnight stays in premium camps offering sunset quad-biking or camel rides.

The city boasts some very cool restaurants and bolt-holes replete with local and international DJs. And of course, you need to engage in the eclectic shopping found in the souks of the Medina region of the city. Just be prepared to buy another suitcase while you’re there to carry it all home.

Where to play tennis

We can only personally attest to a couple of places where we played, but there are plenty more to be had.

• Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakesh: Located about a 20-minute drive from the city, the Fairmont Royal Palm has four red-clay courts in excellent condition. We had a great time with their portfolio of coaches (Medhi and Hamza were a delight). For padel enthusiasts, there are two newly minted courts.

• Four Seasons Resort Marrakesh: For those wanting to be closer to the action, the Four Seasons offers all the wellness you need after a day in the souks. You can jump on the hotel’s red-clay tennis court or recently installed padel court.

• Royal Tennis Club of Marrakesh: In terms of private members clubs, the Royal Tennis Club is the place to be seen. It frequently hosts major sporting events and offers 9 red-clay courts, a 3,000-seat central court, a clubhouse, and an open-air restaurant with views over the El Harti gardens.

What to see

City Marrakesh, often called the "Red City," is a vibrant tapestry of culture. Begin your journey at the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a UNESCO World Heritage site that comes alive at dusk as a bustling food market. Wandering through the narrow alleys of the medina is an adventure in itself. For walkable treats, the Bahia Palace features exquisite gardens and ornate tile work, while the nearby Saadian Tombs offer a glimpse into the city’s past. For a leafy respite, visit the Majorelle Garden, followed by the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakesh.

Mountains and Valleys Just a short drive away, the Atlas Mountains beckon. Head to the village of Imlil to trek through breathtaking landscapes or visit the Ourika Valley, known for its lush greenery and the Setti Fatma waterfalls.

Beaches A day trip to the ancient city of Essaouira offers beautiful beaches, surf camps, a historic medina, and a vibrant arts scene.

Desert A worthwhile half-day trip is the rocky Agafay Desert, just an hour from the city. At sunset, it is a calming experience offering quad-biking and camel rides. We visited Agafay Luxury Camp, where we relaxed by the pool before gathering around the campfire.

Shop

Take ample cash, your best bartering poker face, and head to the Medina to get lost. The various souks are a treat with their bustling atmosphere. Our picks for high-end local products are Ahram Cuir for leather clothing and Boutique El Fenn for household goods.

Eat, drink and be merry

We managed to try Les Jardins Du Lotus, a hidden gem in the Medina, and Nouba Restaurant Marrakesh, which offers vibrant entertainment and delicious food. Both are worth a visit.

Sleep

We stayed at the Fairmont and Four Seasons; both offer luxurious stays and excellent wellness facilities. For boutique options, check Mr & Mrs Smith's curated listings for Marrakesh.