Royal Golf Marrakech

Royal Golf Marrakech is where golf in the city began. The first holes were laid out in 1927 on the old road to Ouarzazate, only a few kilometres from the medina, and the course was extended and remodelled in the years that followed. Winston Churchill, Lloyd George and Dwight Eisenhower all played here. It is a mature parkland course, lined with tall palms, olive and orange trees, and it feels very different from the newer desert layouts around the city.

The 18-hole Old Course is par 72 and not long by modern standards, so accuracy and a good short game count for more than power. A newer nine-hole course, opened in 2008, adds variety for a relaxed afternoon round. The clubhouse has a terrace and restaurant, and there is a driving range with covered bays. A caddy is compulsory here, which is part of the traditional experience.