Discovering Marrakech with Pierre De Greef
Pierre De Greef, a vibrant entrepreneur and co-founder of We Share Agency, divides his time between Brussels and Marrakech, where he owns the colorful Riad Bonjour. He describes Morocco as a place brimming with positive energy, noting that the economy is thriving and a wave of creativity is sweeping through the realms of art and design. In 2024, after falling in love with a property in 2023 and undergoing a year-long renovation, he transformed it into an urban paradise complete with a spacious rooftop terrace, inviting sun loungers, a small swimming pool, and a contemporary interior that reflects the essence of Marrakech.
De Greef is not only an adept hospitality entrepreneur but also runs a marketing and communication agency with a strong emphasis on the hospitality sector. His passion for the industry shines through as he articulates his love for bringing gastronomic stories to life online, showcasing beautiful hotels and unique activities that excite him. "My ideal Saturday morning? Waking up at 4:30 AM for a hot air balloon ride over the desert. In the sweltering heat of Marrakech, waking up early is a true blessing," he shares.
At 4:30 AM, Pierre rises with determination, refusing to waste a minute of his day. The allure of Marrakech's early mornings calls him, and today, his alarm goes off exceptionally early as he has a hot air balloon ride scheduled. By 5:30 AM, he finds himself in the countryside, just a half-hour drive from Marrakech, surrounded by hot air balloons waiting for their passengers. Maroc Montgolfière, which was established thirty years ago by Belgians, pioneered hot air ballooning in the Marrakech region.
By 6 AM, he is floating above the Agafay desert and Moroccan countryside, marveling at the breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains with Marrakech in the foreground. Witnessing the sunrise behind the Atlas Mountains, Pierre reflects, "This is the ultimate morning experience; by 9 AM, you already have an unforgettable memory in your pocket." After the balloon ride, although breakfast in the desert is an option, Pierre opts for brunch at Les Jardins du Lotus, a beautifully decorated riad known for its delightful fusion of Moroccan and Mexican cuisines, which adds a quirky twist to his morning.
As the clock strikes 11:30 AM, Pierre strolls toward Le Jardin Secret Marrakech, which he considers the most beautiful spot in the city. Hidden away as a green oasis amidst the bustling medina, the garden is nourished by an ancient irrigation system from the Atlas Mountains, providing an idyllic retreat where the only sounds are birds chirping—a perfect sanctuary.
By 1 PM, Pierre escapes the busy medina and heads to Sidi Ghanem, the industrial district of Marrakech, where an array of local designers' workshops and showrooms await him. Here, one can find handmade rugs, furniture, and decor items that can be shipped to Belgium. He enjoys wandering through the area, stopping by the workshop of Soufiane Zarib, who specializes in handwoven Berber rugs, and the new showroom of Belgian designer Laurence Leenaert to admire her stunning ceramic collection. For furniture and decor, he recommends Maison Sarayan, and for fashion, Lalla is a must-visit. Sidi Ghanem is a treasure trove for design and art lovers.
At 5 PM, it's time for a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, followed by a revitalizing shower as Pierre prepares for an exciting evening ahead. By 7 PM, he meets friends at the Petanque Social Club, an old French clubhouse in the Guéliz district, often referred to as the 'new city' of Marrakech, dating back to the 1930s. After a recent renovation, it boasts a charming garden with cozy tables, lounge chairs, and petanque courts, where Pierre and his diverse group of friends enjoy a friendly game.
As night falls at 9 PM, they gather for dinner at Farmers, one of Pierre's favorite restaurants, where Chef Driss Alaoui operates on a farm-to-table principle, growing his own vegetables and raising chickens on-site. The seasonal menu is nothing short of delightful, and Pierre confidently sends any journalists or influencers seeking dining recommendations straight to this beloved eatery. Finally, as the clock strikes 11 PM, Pierre concludes his Saturday at Napa Chapter One, a cocktail and wine bar frequented by locals, where the ambiance is relaxed, featuring jazzy music and spicy margaritas on the rocks, making it the perfect end to a fulfilling day.
Pierre's Recommended Spots in Morocco
01. Le Jardin des Douars
This boutique hotel in Essaouira is the ultimate place to unwind. Owned by Belgians, it was one of Pierre's first clients in Morocco.
Douar Sidi Yassine, BP209 44000 Essaouira, Morocco, jardindesdouars.com
02. Moga Festival
This electronic music festival in Essaouira is the best in Morocco, with organizers who know how to throw a great party.
From September 30 to October 4, BP209 44000 Essaouira, Morocco, mogafestival.com
03. Ramakech
This sculpture park by Frenchman Jean-François Fourtou, featuring a house that stands upside down, is a must-see.
CR et Caïdat Al Ouidane, Ramakech Bab Atlas, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco, ramakech.com
As reported by tijd.be.
