MALDON'S Co-op Travel branch has revealed its top holiday destinations for 2026.
For 2025, Maldon's Co-op Travel branch in the High Street found that the town's residents top three holiday destinations were Japan, Spain and islands of Italy - with cruises being the most popular type of break.
As the short days begin to lengthen and Maldon residents see in a new year, branch Manager, Alison Nay has offered her best pick for a holiday in 2026.
Marrakech in Morrocco is Alison’s top pick and it is a popular choice for British tourists looking to holiday in Africa for the first time due to its rich culture, history and easy access to the Atlas Mountains.
Read more
-
Dogs which were abandoned in Maldon complex looking for new homes
-
Campaigners protest new Maldon solar park for 'harm to wildlife and tourism'
Alison said: "Marrakech is a great place to visit for a romantic getaway.
"Jemaa el-Fna square is wonderful to explore as a couple if you don’t mind getting lost in a vibrant, bustling environment where snake charmers, fortune tellers and trance dancers perform.
"You’ll find spices, rugs, crafts and lanterns for sale and it will give you a chance to practice haggling if you feel brave enough.
"Just remember to do your research and be friendly and respectful if you decide to go for it.”
Marrakech is a well-positioned hub for hiking with day trips to idyllic locations like Ourika Valley Waterfalls, Toubkal National Park and Berber villages available for tourists to explore.
Visitors to Marrakech don’t need to travel as far outside of the city to take a break from the hustle and bustle, with camel rides in Palmeraie at sunset to experience.
Marrakech also has a number of popular tourist attractions including Koutoubia, Madrasa Ben Youssef and Le Jardin Secret within the city.
Alison added: “My favourite beauty spots in Marrakech are Menare Gardens and Jardin Majorelle.
"Jardin Majorelle is the most popular attraction in Morocco and you may need to queue to enter, so I would recommend visiting before 10am to reduce your queue times.
"It has stunning gardens and impressive art deco architecture - the museum is worth a visit too.”
Marrakech has plenty on offer for families, with camel rides in the Palm Grove as well as horse-drawn carriage rides being particularly popular with children.
Oasiria water park is also a great place to visit while staying in the city.
Alison's second pick for 2026 holidays is Agadir - a modern city with a relaxed atmosphere and beaches on its doorstep.
Tourists are drawn to the city for its water sports and year-round sunshine.
Alison said: “Agadir is the perfect place for a young family to visit as it has great beaches and plenty to keep children occupied without the intensity of busier cities.
"Agadir Beach and Promenade is a top attraction alongside Paradise Valley.
"There are lots of attractions to suit young families in Agadir from Valley of the Birds to a trip on an Agadir Oufella cable.
“Marrakech may be better known for its bustling markets but if you fancy exploring a market in Agadir then I would suggest visiting Souk El Had.
"The city has a great art gallery called Musee d’Art that is perfect for a quiet peruse.”
Agadir is a destination with plenty to offer to couples looking for a relaxing break, with couple’s Hammam and spa treatments available.
A romantic meal in Agadir’s harbourside restaurant Pure Passion or at seafood restaurant La Scala is a lovely way to spend time together.
Share