Tour Morocco Like Madeline Weinrib, Plus See More Sights

Author: Michelle Brunner / August 26, 2017

One look at her iconic line of carpets and textiles, and you can see the Moroccan inspiration behind Madeline Weinrib‘s work. The New York-based designer has been making annual pilgrimages to Marrakesh for nearly 20 years. Below, she presents her top recommendations for shopping and sustenance.

PLACES TO SHOP

33 RUE MAJORELLE Like a smaller version of the legendary Parisian boutique Colette, this open-concept shop just opposite the Majorelle Garden is stocked with an expertly curated collection of clothes, jewelry and art by local designers.

ALNOUR Located in the medina, or old city, this workshop and store is a social enterprise for handicapped women who are skilled in the art of embroidery. They sell exquisite, handmade linens for the home, as well as clothing.

EL FENN BOUTIQUE With its impressive art collection and drop-dead gorgeous interiors, El Fenn, from Vanessa Branson, Virgin mogul Richard Branson’s sister, is one of the most stylish stays in the medina. Now, it features an adjoining boutique with an array of wonderful home goods, which can be shipped globally. I’ve collaborated with them on a collection of pillows, and all proceeds from sales benefit a foundation that teaches women to weave in the Atlas Mountains.

LALLA French owner Laetitia Trouillet crafts chic handbags–think studded leather clutches–and accessories at this boutique in the hip Gueliz district. Her bags, scarves and headbands make wonderful gifts for friends back home.

MAISON DU KAFTAN Perhaps no article of clothing conjures images of Morocco quite like the free-flowing kaftan. Also located in the medina, this store is stocked with versions of the garment in all colors, styles and price ranges

PHOTOS: COURTESY MADELINE WEINRIB

PLACES TO EAT

DAR YACOUT Designed by Bill Willis, the late American architect and decorator who helped put Marrakesh on the style map, this dining spot serves a set menu amid dramatic decor. Plan ahead; reservations are a must.

NOMAD RESTAURANT With a modern menu that features fresh salads, Nomad is my favorite place for lunch in the medina. The cafe has a lovely terrace that overlooks “spice square,” where you can view all the exotic spice vendors. Bonus: They take craft cocktails seriously here.

DAR MOHA This restaurant was once the home of French designer Pierre Balmain. I like to sit by the pool, but all the rooms are charming. There is a set menu with many courses of Moroccan food, so be prepared for a feast.

BELDI COUNTRY CLUB If you need a peaceful respite from the commotion of the souk, you can’t beat this place for a leisurely swim or a spa treatment. Grab a French-style lunch by the pool–the salade nicoise is divine!

PHOTO: COURTESY MADELINE WEINRIB

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