A culinary & wellness retreat led by MasterChef Champion Irini Tzortzoglou & Pilates Practisioner Hilary Crospy.

This, Irini's 9th retreat, promises to be one of the most exciting yet. In selecting to collaborate with Pilates Practisioner and retreat guest herself Hilary Crosby, guests will benefit from the usual culinary and cultural immersion that have come to characterise my retreats but also some body wellness in the shape of 5 pilates sessions during the week long stay at Villa Dinari in the outskirts of Marrakech at a time when most of us in the UK are desperate for some sun and warmth! Swimming, relaxing, hammam and massage but also olive oil and honey tastings as well as food demos will keep the mind and soul nurtured too.

Irini fell in love with Morocco, its food, culture and people in 1981 when she visited for the first time.  She has been back many times since and has developed a deep affinity with Moroccan produce and cuisine which she will love sharing with her guests some of whom inevitably will have experienced the same at a retreat of hers in Greece.

Villa Dinari is run by husband and wife team Abdel and Heather and they are supported by a team of locals who make their guests feel welcomed and pampered.  The villa comprises 8 individually designed double or twin rooms and 3 luxurious tents in the lush garden.

Food, prepared by the all female kitchen team (Irini will have a hand in some of the recipes) is as authentic as it comes with colour, vibrancy and flavour added by the aromatic spices that characterise Moroccan cuisine. 

Visits to the souks of Marrakech, cocktails on the rooftop of Vanessa Branson's iconic El Fenn, a visit to the very imaginative, quirky, art filled Anima Gardens and a henna hand tattoo will provide an excellent insight into the rich tapestry of colour, aromas and flavours that is Morocco.  Add to that the short flying distance from the UK, good weather and very hospitable people and you have one of the most exciting destinations for a winter break that promises to be equally good for body and soul!  

For brochure,  visit www.irinicooks.com