The Andalusian Gardens (Jardin des Oudaïas) is one of Rabat's hidden gems, and trust me, it's worth seeking out if you’re into beauty!
Nestled within the historic Kasbah of the Oudaïas, these gardens offer a charming retreat from the city bustle. You'll enter through a beautiful traditional Moroccan keyhole archway – but this isn't just a photo spot, it's your gateway to a genuinely peaceful escape.
While the gardens aren't huge, they're absolutely lovely and, bonus points: they're completely free! The Islamic-Spanish landscaping creates a serene atmosphere that invites you to slow down, breathe, and just be present. It's the perfect antidote to Rabat's busy medina.
For the history buffs and jewelry lovers out there, don't miss the Museum of Jewelry (Musée des Oudaïas). For just 6 euros, you can explore this beautiful 17th-century palace that used to house the Sultan's privateers before becoming an Alaouite family residence. Pretty cool, right?
Here's a pro tip: while these gardens are wonderful, if you're a real garden enthusiast with more time on your hands, head to the Chellah ruins on the north side of town for the most extensive gardens in Rabat. But if you're short on time, the Andalusian Gardens are perfect for a quick but meaningful visit.
Don't forget to cap off your visit with a stop at Café Maure (also known locally as Café M'qalit) – it's right there by the gardens. Sipping traditional mint tea and munching on Moroccan pastries while gazing out at the Bou Regreg river and Salé is pretty much the perfect way to end your visit. Morning visits are best if you want to experience the gardens at their most peaceful.
This place is basically a perfect little pocket of calm in the city – not too touristy, not too off the beaten path, just right for a delightful hour or two of quiet contemplation and authentic Moroccan...
Read moreI wish there is 0 to give . I’m deeply disappointed with the behaviour of the two security guards at the entrance. They were extremely rude to me and my husband, shreiking and calling us "stupid" and "uneducated" just because my husband mistakenly exited through the entrance door.
I calmly explained that he doesn’t speak Arabic, French, or English—he’s Russian,plus there is no sign or board to show where is the exit ,and he was also listening to music and didn’t hear me when I called him. Despite that, they insisted on dragging him back inside to exit from the correct door instead of simply explaining politely.
One of them even went further and told me that my husband “is not a real man” – as if manhood is defined by yelling at a woman. That comment was deeply offensive and totally inappropriate.
They need to understand that not everyone is from the same city or even the same country. I may be Moroccan, but I live abroad, and we were there as tourists. A bit of respect and professionalism would have gone a long way. Wearing a security uniform doesn’t give anyone the right to insult or mistreat people.
If I were alone, I swear I would have called the police—but I didn’t want to ruin my husband’s first visit to Morocco or let him think that all Moroccans lack manners and respect. Unfortunately, these two individuals left us with a very bad impression. I hope better training in customer service and communication will be provided...
Read moreThe Andalusian Garden in Rabat, nestled within the historic Kasbah of the Udayas, is a peaceful retreat that showcases a blend of Moroccan and Andalusian garden design. Known for its lush landscape, it features orange, lemon, and banana trees alongside vibrant flowers and meticulously arranged hedges. The garden’s stone paths, lined with intricate tile work, lead visitors through shaded areas under tall palms, creating a tranquil and picturesque environment.
Visitors often enjoy the garden’s calm atmosphere, where benches offer spaces to sit and observe the variety of birdlife. This serene spot is beloved by locals and tourists alike for its intimate setting and fragrant ambiance. The garden’s charm is enhanced by a nearby tea house overlooking the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean, where guests can relax with traditional Moroccan mint tea while taking in the scenic views.
One drawback is the limited on-site information about the garden’s history and plants, so visitors looking for a deeper understanding might benefit from reading up beforehand or taking a guide along. Nevertheless, the Andalusian Garden stands out as a beautifully crafted space that combines natural beauty with cultural significance, making it a must-visit spot in Rabat for those looking to experience a peaceful and historically prosperous...
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