As temperatures drop, many of us search for our next getaway to escape the cold—often gravitating towards tropical islands or resorts.
However, Marrakech has emerged as a hot spot for unique travelers seeking an off-season experience rich in culture, art, and adventure. With its mild climate and vibrant atmosphere, the city offers an enchanting escape perfect for a mix of exploration and relaxation during the off-season.
From exclusive design retreats and wellness programs hosted at the property, to leisurely strolls through vibrant souks in town – a trip to the red city during the winter has plenty to offer. The hotel’s unique blend of Moroccan craftsmanship and contemporary design sets up a luxurious retreat, while its proximity to the Atlas Mountains and commitment to local art make it a hub of creativity and inspiration.
Below, the local experts at El Fenn share more reasons why winter is the perfect time to visit Marrakech.
- Perfect Weather for Exploration
While much of Europe and North America brace for cold, Marrakech enjoys mild temperatures that range between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in winter. This comfortable climate makes it the ideal season to explore the city’s outdoor landmarks, from the vibrant Jemaa el Fnaa square to the tranquil Jardin Majorelle, without the discomfort of intense heat and hoards of tourists.
- Insider Access to Marrakech’s Interior Design & Architecture Scene
El Fenn, with its inimitable blend of Moroccan craftsmanship and contemporary design, has long been a destination for those in search of inspiration. This winter, El Fenn’s exclusive Interior Design Retreats offer a rare opportunity to learn from renowned designers and artisans. Participants can immerse themselves in workshops on traditional Moroccan techniques, from tadelakt plaster to zellige tile work, all while experiencing the luxurious interiors of one of Marrakech’s most considered hotels.
The first of the design-focused retreats – “Discover Colour” – will be led by renowned interiors expert Sophie Robinson, and take place in late November and early December.
- Fewer Crowds, More Serenity
Winter is Marrakech’s low season for tourism, making it the perfect time for a more peaceful and intimate experience. With fewer crowds, visitors can take their time exploring the souks, meandering through the medina, or capturing Instagram-worthy moments in iconic locations like the Bahia Palace.
- Reconnect and Recharge at El Fenn’s Wellness Retreat
Marrakech has always been a haven for rest and rejuvenation, and winter at El Fenn offers a new layer of tranquillity. November’s Wellness Retreat, designed to renew both body and mind, is the ultimate early winter escape. Yoga sessions on El Fenn’s rooftop pavilion, guided meditation, and indulgent spa treatments in the hotel’s signature hammam provide the perfect antidote to the fast pace of modern life.
- Immerse in the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
Held every February in Marrakech, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair celebrates the rich diversity of African artistry. El Fenn, a long-time supporter of the local art scene, is an ideal base for art lovers to explore the fair – including via an installation within its very walls. Guests can also discover the hotel’s own carefully curated collection of contemporary works, which adorn its colorful and eclectic interiors.
- The Magic of the Atlas Mountains in Winter
Just a short drive from Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains offer a spectacular winter landscape, with snow-capped peaks visible from the city. Whether it’s a day trip to hike in the crisp mountain air or a more adventurous trek through Berber villages, the mountains provide a dramatic counterpoint to the dusty rose-hued beauty of Marrakech.
- Sun-Drenched Souks and Hidden Treasures
The winter sun softens the bustling energy of Marrakech’s famous souks, making it a productive time for those in search of artisanal treasures. From intricate handmade rugs and leather goods to delicate jewelry and ceramics, the city’s markets are brimming with one-of-a-kind finds. And with fewer tourists, there’s more room for meaningful interactions with the master craftspeople who carry on centuries-old traditions.
- Experience Traditional Moroccan Hospitality
Winter is a season of warmth in Marrakech—not just in its temperate climate, but in its legendary hospitality. El Fenn embodies this spirit, offering guests the perfect blend of luxury and intimacy. Guests can cozy up by the fire with a mint tea or savor seasonal Moroccan dishes in the hotel’s courtyard, which comes alive with candlelight as the sun sets early in the crisp air, or with a panoramic rooftop view.
- Refresh & Rejuvenate for the New Year with Purifying Hammam Experiences
El Fenn’s stunning riads, with their vibrant colors and lush gardens, offer a unique retreat from the outside world, and this applies to the breathtaking spa on site, which can be enjoyed every day for a traditional hammam experience – a perfect activity during the winter when the slightly cooler temperatures settle in.
El Fenn’s hammam provides a unique wellness experience, where centuries-old purification rituals in a heated room are combined with modern spa luxury, leaving guests feeling truly refreshed and renewed for the new year ahead.
- Reset Your Style Compass
Marrakech has long been a muse for the fashion world, and winter is the perfect time to enjoy the Marrakech that the biggest icons in fashion, like Yves Saint Laurent, have come to love. Fewer tourists mean more time to immerse in the local fabric of this vibrant city, experiencing it the way the world’s creative elite once did decades ago.
The city’s creative energy continues to inspire designers, making it a post-fashion-month haven for those looking to recharge and find their next big idea. Those looking to re-invent their personal style can do so without leaving the walls of El Fenn, with the hotel’s in-house boutique offering an incredible curation of the best local African designers. Featuring collections from designers like Oubaich, Patrice Kouadio, and Rana Rezapour, El Fenn showcases the convergence of Moroccan heritage with contemporary design.
Winter in Marrakech offers a unique and serene take on this bustling city, where the vibrant pulse of the medina is matched by the quiet beauty of its cultural landmarks. Whether someone is in search of creative inspiration, a luxurious wellness retreat, or simply an escape from the cold, El Fenn provides the perfect gateway to discover the many layers of this remarkable city.
