Rabat, Morocco

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All photos by Olivia Seally

Morocco's capital sits at the edge of the Atlantic - and it rewards the ones who stop long enough to see it. From Chefchaouen we drove to Rabat, stopping for roadside snacks - including the juiciest donut-shaped peach I'd ever had. We explored the Chellah ruins, a hauntingly beautiful site with Roman and Islamic layers, storks nesting overhead, and flowers bursting from the graves. For one night, we stayed at Villa Mandarine - with its secret-garden courtyards. Dinner was a French feast at L'Avenue 155: three hours of food, live music, laughter, and too many desserts. The next day, we toured the Royal Palace, strolled Kasbah Les Oudaias, and ended at Platforme du Semaphore for sweeping Atlantic views. A truly incredible lookout point for a picturesque panorama of the coast. About 10 minutes from there are the city gates and a set of steps, now known for being the location where Mission Impossible filmed a famous Tom Cruise motorcycle chase scene.

Featured property: Villa Mandarine, a garden hotel tucked into the heart of the city.

For Moroccan tourism boards, boutique hotels, travel editorial, and cultural brands - these images are available for licensing.

© Olivia Seally. All rights reserved.

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