One of the most celebrated designers of the 20th century, Yves Saint Laurent drew much of his inspiration from his love for the exoticism of Marrakech. Discover the city as he knew it with visits to the souks he frequented for design inspiration and the serene gardens where he so often spent his time. Combined with an exciting sidecar excursion, tantalising dining experiences and even the chance to create a fragrance at the museum of YSL's friend and perfumer, ethno-botanist Abderrazzak Benchaabane, this intoxicating itinerary seamlessly fuses the hypnotic charm of Marrakech with the fascinating life of one of fashion's greatest icons.
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF YVES SAINT LAURENT
HIGHLIGHTS
- Zip around the streets of Marrakech in a classic sidecar, visiting many sites important to the designer
- Relish the tranquillity of the Jardin Majorelle, created for and beloved by Saint Laurent
- Discover more about Morocco and Saint Laurent at the YSL and Berber museums
- Learn the art of scent creation at a perfume museum owned by the creator of YSL's 'Jardin Majorelle' fragrance
- Explore the city's vibrant souks and bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a favourite source of inspiration for YSL
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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrive in Marrakech
Arrive with VIP fast track to speed you through the airport and transfer to Riad Farnatchi where you will be staying for the next three nights. This evening, transfer to the iconic La Mamounia hotel for drinks and dinner (payable locally), where Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé stayed on their first visit to Marrakech.
Overnight: Riad Farnatchi
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Day 2 Yves Saint Laurent's Marrakech
This morning, enjoy a sidecar excursion through the streets of Marrakech visiting a selection of sites important to Saint Laurent. Among these are his house nestled in the city's historic medina, and the flea market where he could be found rummaging for unusual décor and design inspiration. Your final stop is the Art Deco villa in the Palmeraie where photographs of glamorous past gatherings are displayed, featuring guests such as Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Bergé and Serge Lutens.
Refuel after a busy morning with a delicious lunch at La Trattoria (payable locally). The restaurant was designed by Bill Willis - a close friend of YSL and designer of his former private home, Villa Oasis. This afternoon, take a wander in the blissfully serene Majorelle Garden - a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city cloistered by striking "Majorelle" blue buildings. Saint Laurent was often found relaxing here and cited the vibrant colours as a great source of inspiration. The day finishes with fascinating visits to the YSL and Berber Museums, where you can learn both about the designer's life in Marrakech as well as more about the historic city itself. Return to your riad and spend an evening at leisure.
Option: enjoy a private one-hour visit of Villa Oasis, the home of YSL and Pierre Bergé (supplement applies).
Overnight: Riad Farnatchi
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Day 3 Perfume workshop and souk visits
Begin your day with a perfume workshop at Benchaâbane's Perfumery and learn about Abderrazzak Benchaâbane's intriguing relationship with YSL. The former botanist was commissioned by Saint Laurent to restore the natural potential of the Majorelle Garden, which eventually led to a new collaboration: perfume making. Benchaâbane eventually created the perfume 'Jardin Majorelle' at the request of the designer. While no longer available owing to its limited-edition release, guests can still discover the other hypnotic fragrances on display at the factory and delight in creating their own enchanting aroma. Suitably fragrant, spend the afternoon exploring vibrant souks before a visit to the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square - the thrumming hub of the city and one of YSL's favourite places to seek inspiration.
Option: delight in a private local food tour in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and sample dishes from enticing and aromatic food stalls (supplement applies).
Overnight: Riad Farnatchi
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Day 4 Depart
Enjoy a morning at leisure before returning to the airport for your onward journey.
Option: continue your explorations of Morocco with a journey into the Atlas Mountains, staying at the stunning Kasbah Tamadot.
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Depart
BOOKING NOTES
- Price based on two people sharing a room.
INCLUSIONS
- Accommodation on BB.
- VIP fast track on arrival and departure.
- Private transfers and guiding as detailed.
- Entrances to mentioned sights.
EXTRAS
- International flights.
- Meals other than daily breakfast
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary).
- Optional extras mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance.
- Visa fees (if applicable).
- Optional food tour and Villa Oasis tour
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REASONS TO BOOK
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