Marrakech… the very word conjures up a world of ancient mystery where past and present blur. A place of markets and storytellers, of narrow streets and secret doorways, it’s a land that lives up to its impossibly evocative name. This holiday is a rare treat, a privileged journey to the soul of the country’s sensational food, prepared as it has been for centuries. No fusion cooking, no fancy equipment, instead a trip back to the land that will enrich you in more ways than one. You stay at lovely privately owned riad in the heart of Marrakech, an oasis of beauty and tranquility. The beautifully restored rooms are all ensuite, built around a central courtyard, with fountains and orange trees. Dining is magical on the rooftop, with lanterns flickering in the gentle breeze. You also have use of a lovely swimming pool nearby. The swimming pool is only a 10 minute ride by taxi. (Taxi fare not included). Cooking is wonderfully relaxed. Working alongside a Berber cook, you’ll learn to cook the Moroccan way. You’ll cook a slow tagine of meat or vegetables, you’ll grill marinated fish over charcoal, you’ll make melt in your mouth meats in the mechoui. While the food is slowly cooking, you can doze and then dine al-fresco. You’ll be taken by enchanting Abderrazak around the souks; you’ll meet the fabled spice merchants, you’ll even see couscous being rolled by the local women. There are picnics in the Ourika valley and the spectacular countryside outside Marrakech. And to top the laden platter, the food at the riad is outstandingly good and you will dine memorably.