Culinary Crossroads of Morocco
About this trip
It is said that the history of Morocco can be seen reflected in its cuisine. The country has been at the crossroad of different civilizations, which has greatly influenced local food. This program is more than market visits and cooking classes, it’s an immersion into Morocco’s culinary soul.
It has blended different cuisines from different cultures like Berber, Moorish, Arab, Middle Eastern, Jewish, Iberian and Mediterranean African. They all have left remarkable prints on the Moroccan culinary landscape. Besides, the Moroccan vegetation offers varieties of plants & herbs, spices, oils, dried fruits & nuts… and wine.
It’s one of the most diversified and sumptuous cuisines in the culinary world capable to offer a delightful food experience combining lively history and rich culture. Moroccan food is the perfumed soul of Moroccan culture, it’s a magical & fascinating reflection.
Join us for the exciting food, the legendary scenery, the welcoming people that continue to express its historic uniqueness.
Terms and conditions can be found here and in the footer of the website.
Madelaine Bullwinkel has been teaching the ‘how to’s and whys’ of French cooking at Chez Madelaine Cooking School for almost 50 years and has led culinary tours to France since 1995.
DATE
September 15-28, 2026
Price (land only)
Double: pp
Single: pp
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Rabat
Late afternoon tour of Rabat, the capital of Morocco, the Hassan Tower, which is the towering minaret of the Hassan Mosque built in 1195, the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat’s Medina. This fortification is erected on a mountain, overlooking the ocean, and was constructed during the realm of the Almohads. Inside the Kasbah one can come across Andalusian gardens full of fountains, orange trees, flowers, and palms. After the tour, enjoy the welcome dinner then overnight at the hotel. Expect drive time: 40 min.
Throughout the tour we will be staying at some of Morocco’s best riads. You’ll be staying at Riad Zyo in heart of the medina. This evening we’ll have our welcome dinner at Ziryab and have a gourmet introduction to Moroccan Cuisine. The rest of the evening you can just relax and adjust to the time difference.
Overnight: La Tour Hassan Palace
Day 2 Rabat -> Meknes
After breakfast, journey to the magnificent imperial city of Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former seat of the Moroccan sultanate. This captivating city blends its storied past with vibrant present-day life, its ancient medina a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with grand buildings that bear witness to its imperial legacy.
Explore the remnants of three impressive fortifications ingeniously incorporated into the modern road network—testament to the city's importance during Sultan Moulay Ismail's 17th-century reign. The sultan's ornate tomb sits at the heart of the original imperial city, flanked by two striking monuments: the almighty royal granary and the magnificent Bab el-Mansour, considered one of North Africa's most beautiful gates. Adorned with intricate tilework and carved inscriptions, this monumental entrance epitomizes Meknes' architectural splendor.
Overnight: Chateau Roslane
Day 3: Volubulis
After breakfast, head to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis to explore its stunning ruins. Impressive stone arches and columns, some tumbled down and others still standing tall against the vivid blue sky, invite us to take a step back in time. Only about half of the 40-hectare UNESCO site of Volubilis has been excavated. The better-known monuments are in the northern part of the site, farthest from the entrance in the south: The Capitol, dedicated to the Triad of Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, dates 218AD; the Basilica and 1,300 sq. meters Forum are nearby. Here, floors of what were once family dwellings are still covered with decorative tile mosaics depicting mythological beings, such as Orpheus charming animals with their lyre and Hercules performing his legendary 12 labors. The fact that so many of these tiles are still in place with their colors, after centuries of exposure to the elements, is astonishing! After the tour, discover the vineyard of Villa Volubilia for a tour and tasting, accompanied by olive oils, dried fruit and goat cheeses from the Region.
Overnight: Chateau Roslane
Day 4: Meknes -> Fez
After breakfast, travel to Fez. Upon arrival, take a step back in time into the Middle Ages with the visit of one of the most imperial, timeless, and untouched cities in the world, the cultural heart of Morocco, Fez El Bali (Old Fez). Explore some of the 9,000 narrow lanes and alleys in the souks (open air markets) that make-up the labyrinth of the city's old quarter. The Imperial capital was a renowned medieval learning center from its founding in the 8th century. At its heart is the Attarine Medersa (Koranic college), a jewel of Hispano-Moorish architecture, built in the 14th century. Continue to the fondouq (caravanserai) that is now a Museum of Carpentry. In the 13th century the Mérinides Dynasty built Fez El Jdid (New Fez) with its Royal Palace, mosques, madrasas (Koranic schools), souks and the city walls and is also home to the Mellah (Jewish quarter). The wrought iron decorated windows and splendid carved wood balconies of the old mansions are unique. Visit a clay workshop, the artisan quarters, and other souks.
Day 5 Fez
After breakfast, we’ll explore the Medina, trying out different foods as we gather our ingredients. Back to the hotel for a rooftop hands-on cooking workshop where our chef will guide you through a 2 hour cooking experience. Round off your cooking class with a relaxing lunchunder citrus trees and taste what you have just cooked!
Dinner at leisure.
Day 6 Fez -> Essaouira
It’s an early departure this morning as we board our flight to Marrakech. Upon landing, we will be met by our driver and continue two and a half hours to Essaouira. On the way, you will stop at a cooperative to observe the extraction of Argan Oil, highly valued today for its use in both cosmetics and Western cuisine.
From fortified Portuguese port to artistic haven with a bohemian vibe, Essaouira is known for sweeping sandy beaches and a UNESCO-recognized medina, knitted together in a maze of narrow alleyways fringed by whitewashed buildings trimmed in blue. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, it bustles with blue wooden boats, seagulls circling overhead, and fishermen hauling in the day’s catch—sardines, sea bream, and lobster glistening in the morning sun. The scent of salt and grilled fish fills the air. Nearby, seafood restaurants line the harbor, offering freshly grilled catches served with lemon, herbs, and Moroccan spice. After a tour and exploring the town, we will continue to a special auberge for dinner and overnight.
Day 7 Essaouira
Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure or take some time to explore on your own. The van will be going to Essaouira to explore, or go horseback riding, play a game of golf (not included) or go for a swim.
In the late afternoon, an exciting experience awaits you: a hands-on Moroccan cooking class. In this class, you will learn to prepare authentic Moroccan dishes using traditional ingredients and techniques, guided by a local chef. At the end of the session, you will enjoy the dishes you have prepared, making it both a cultural and culinary experience. After dinner Overnight at the hotel.
Day 8 Essaouira -> Marrakech
After checking out of our hotel, we’ll head to Marrakech, hitting the ground with a tour. Discover the magic of Marrakech, the "Red City," with visits to its most iconic landmarks. Stand before the majestic Koutoubia Mosque with its towering 12th-century minaret, then explore the ornate 19th-century Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship featuring intricate tilework and carved cedar throughout its 150 rooms and courtyards.
Dive into the heart of the medina as we navigate the vibrant artisan quarters and legendary souks. In the aromatic spice souk, discover pyramids of colorful spices—saffron, cumin, ras el hanout, and more—while learning about their culinary and medicinal uses from local merchants. Experience the sights, sounds, and scents that have defined Marrakech's bustling marketplace for centuries.
Overnight: Villa des Oranges
Day 9 Into the Mountains
After breakfast, embark on a captivating journey into the mountains to discover authentic Berber culture. We'll descend into the stunning Azzaden Valley toward Torort village, following an ancient trail through verdant groves of almonds, walnuts, and olives—the lifeblood of local communities. Watch for beautiful bird species along the way and explore traditional village life upon arrival.
We'll continue to Anraz village, home to a historic Jewish synagogue, before ascending to Tikhfist village for the day's highlight: lunch with a local Berber family. Our host is renowned for his captivating Berber poetry and will welcome us with traditional mint tea and warm conversation. A delicious homemade lunch will be served on the rooftop, where you'll savor authentic cuisine alongside sweeping views of Kasbah Africa and the Azzaden Valley. After this intimate glimpse into mountain hospitality, we'll descend through an expansive fruit farm, cross the river, and return to your hotel for the evening.
Overnight: Villa des Oranges
Day 10 Down on the Farm
Escape to the enchanting Ourika Valley for an extraordinary day at The Bennounas Farm, where authentic Moroccan cuisine meets the breathtaking beauty of the High Atlas Mountains. Just 30 minutes from Marrakech, this immersive experience is led by award-winning chef Alain (Azzeddine) Bennouna.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through spectacular countryside, with majestic peaks rising dramatically in the background. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with traditional Moroccan hospitality and refreshing drinks before touring the property.
The hands-on cooking class is the centerpiece of your visit. Work alongside this acclaimed Executive Chef to master authentic Moroccan techniques and flavors, learning about aromatic spices while preparing dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
After savoring your creations during lunch, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace—take a refreshing dip in the pool, stroll through the farm's grounds, or simply relax in the tranquil mountain atmosphere.
Overnight: Villa des Oranges
Day 11 - Domaine Sauvage visit & Cooking class
Today presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Morocco's thriving organic farming movement at Domain Sauvage. Nestled in the stunning wild foothills, this remarkable farm showcases sustainable agriculture at its finest, where traditional Moroccan farming techniques meet modern organic practices.
The heart of the experience is a hands-on cooking class in their enchanting open-air kitchen, where you'll prepare authentic Moroccan dishes using ingredients harvested directly from the farm. Under the shade of olive trees and surrounded by the raw beauty of the foothills, you'll learn traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations while discovering how organic farming enhances the flavors and nutritional value of every ingredient.
The experience culminates in a leisurely farm-to-table lunch, where you'll savor the fruits of your labor while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This is more than just a cooking class—it's an opportunity to connect with the land, understand the importance of sustainable food systems, and experience Moroccan hospitality at its most authentic.
Overnight: Villa des Oranges
