A Magical Story

My journey to Morocco began over a decade ago, guided by my two great loves—food and travel. I’d always dreamed of visiting this vibrant country, and in September 2012, the stars aligned. A friend invited me on a food tour through Morocco, and I jumped at the chance. The spices, the colours, the culture—it was everything I’d imagined and more. When the tour wrapped up, something inside me wasn’t quite ready to go home. I extended my stay for another week, deciding to explore solo. No plans, just an open heart and a curious spirit. I packed my bags, wandered into the winding souks of Marrakech… and within 20 minutes, I was completely lost. And honestly, it was the best kind of lost.

Amid the maze of scents, sounds, and stories, I had a chance encounter—one that changed my life forever. I met a kind stranger who would become my husband. That spontaneous detour unfolded into a love story, a marriage, a child, cultural fusions of Australian and Morocco adventures across the globe. So for me this is a magical city which has eventually lead to a new life rooted here in Morocco.

What began as a simple trip and tour became a turning point. A new life and a place of inspiration and discovery, this fusion of culture, design, history, tradition, community and the modern luxury fused into creating Riad Botanica. an award-winning luxury property inspired by nature, the richness of Moroccan culture, the elegance of Australian modernism, and the magic of serendipity. Mohamed brings deep local knowledge and heartfelt hospitality; I bring a love for interiors, storytelling, and curating meaningful experiences. Along the way, we’ve been lucky to be surrounded by talented friends in design.

We’re also delighted to share our new venture, Marrakech Retreats Co—a growing collection of soulful retreats and curated experiences, designed to connect you more deeply with this extraordinary place.

An intimate Riad crafted to welcome kindred spirits and curious travellers seeking connection, beauty, and meaning. Like so many travellers, I went searching the world for something new… but what I found was myself and a deeper appreciation for life.

And now, as part of this journey, we’re opening our doors even wider—to more soulful, meaningful experiences. We’re thrilled to be launching our new Retreats project, aptly named Marrakech Retreats Co here we are collaborating with dear friends and creative minds in the wellness and lifestyle space.

• From this September we are offering an insight into shopping and interior design following my own journey here sourcing and shopping with Muse Marrakech InStyle—and our wonderful Australian Interior Designer Claire Cau-Cecile
• Then in October we are working with Annika Glac another Australian Yoga teacher offering deeply nurturing yoga and healing with Artisan of the Soul,

We are excited about this next chapter where we share our focus of community, creativity, and conscious living. This is an opportunity for us to share our Marrakech with you like a local—whether you’re here to reset and rebalance, or looking to style and decorate your space with Moroccan soul.

Join us at marrakechretreats.co – we’d love to welcome you.

More than a retreat — a journey back into alignment

🔗 Book Now
📍 October 11-18, 2025 or March 29-5th April 2026
(More dates to be announced)