Reviews | philipturnerfitness

Fitness Retreats Marrakesh - Reviews and Testimonials.

All testimonials are 100% factual and unedited. If you would like any references from our previous clients, please contact me.

Bev & Dan Howland (Lincoln)

Retreat Date 22nd - 26th April 2026

Phil Turner, Leila Farmhouse and Marrakech are the perfect combination! My husband and I have just returned from an amazing health and fitness stay there .Phil is an amazing and inspiring fitness trainer. We all achieved such a lot whilst we were there but had great fun at the same time. On arrival, I would have described my husband as a reluctant participant but by the end of it I was amazed at his progress and he's returned home inspired. The Leila Farmhouse and gardens are stunning, spotlessly clean and beautifully maintained. The food was so good, whilst being healthy and well-balanced at the same time. The staff couldn't do enough for you and were so friendly. We also enjoyed a hamman in the Leila farmhouse spa. Phil's organisational skills with the timetable, organising taxis for all of us and the excursions were second to none. We trekked in the Agafay desert, and also in the mountains, and had a walking tour of Marrakech and round the souk with a wonderful celebration meal at the end with Moroccan entertainers and belly dancers. I can't recommend this whole experience enough and would go back tomorrow and do it all over again.

Estelle Nicol (Auchterarder)

Retreat Date 22nd - 26th April 2026

I was lucky enough to join Phil on a recent fitness retreat at the amazing Leila Farmhouse in April 2026. Unfortunately, due to an accident I suffered a few days prior in Marrakech, I wasn't able to fully partake in all the exercise options and I was obviously disappointed. However, Phil was amazing and spent a considerable amount of time chatting to me prior to each session, advising me what he thought I could manage, emphasising that I should listen to my body. His professionalism meant that I felt included and managed to do a little of the exercise programme. The venue - Leila Farmhouse - was amazing - purpose built and just a 30 minute drive from the centre of Marrakech. The bedrooms were well appointed and spacious, with gorgeous gardens. Of note, was the incredible food served by the onsite chef team. It was plentiful, fresh (there is a mini farm on site), catered for all tastes and some lovely recipes were used showcasing the finest local ingredients. I managed the 2 organised treks - into the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert - and they did not disappoint. We travelled to Imlil, the gateway to the Atlas and spent 3-4 hours trekking, dwarfed by the High Atlas and Mt Toubkal, a spectacular backdrop with the snow covered mountains. The Agafay desert was a complete contrast as we trekked along a dry riverbed sighting wild camels and desert topography on the way. This is the first "fitness retreat" I have been on, and I have to admit I was slightly nervous - and my accident added to the nervousness. There was no need. Phil is an excellent, knowledgeable and understanding coach who can tutor all abilities. I cannot recommend the retreat highly enough and hope that I can visit again soon ad fully partake of all on offer.

Bruce Lorimer (Glasgow)

Retreat Date 22nd - 26th April 2026

just home from the farm house was not sure about what to expect as I've never done this before I had an amazing time and joined in fitness training and treks to atlas mountains not too strenuous, amazing food i would not have normally chosen. All transport to events were all fabulous and on time great pick up an drop off at airport, would definitely recommend this to solo travellers as well as couples, definitely book again. I arrived a couple of days early and my accommodation and transport was all arranged for me also my transport to my retreat. I am 69 years of age and cannot believe what I was able to achieve on this adventure, thanks again you have renewed my energy.

Joy. Mitchell (Perth & Kinross)

Retreat Date 22nd - 26th April 2026

The Marrakesh retreat is fantastic - get booked! I attended the fitness retreat in Marrakesh in April 2026 as a group of 13. Everything over the five days was very well planned and executed excellently by Phil. The accommodation at the villa is simply stunning with lovely spacious rooms, lots of cool areas for relaxing, and a fantastic pool with plenty of sun beds (towels supplied). There was an extensive exercise programme starting with some stretching before breakfast. You could opt in or out of as many classes as you wanted to and Phil made sure the exercises were matched to everyone's level of fitness. There was also plenty of time to relax by the pool. I was just recovering from a fractured pelvis and found that the classes, with Phil's expert guidance, allowed me to regain some of my flexibility and mobility after being out of action for three months. The food supplied at the villa is outstanding and plentiful and mealtimes provided a good opportunity to socialise with the whole group and make new friendships. There is beer and wine on offer for purchase if desired. An excellent addition to the programme is a guided tour of Marrakesh with dinner in a Moroccan restaurant and the chance to take a couple of treks. Phil organises transfers to and from the airport for you and takes away any stress about finding your way to the retreat. I came home feeling re-energised, relaxed and healthier.

Tania.T (Pirton, Hertfordshire)

Retreat Date 15th - 19th October 2025

We thoroughly enjoyed our fitness retreat at Leila farmhouse. It was a perfect location and the staff couldn’t have looked after, or fed us, any better! It was a good length of time with a varied itinerary including plenty of down time to enjoy the beautiful pool area.

The excursions into the Medina, afternoon tour one day and dinner the next evening, were great fun and provided a real insight into life in Marrakesh. One change we would suggest is to have a longer trek, 3-4 hours, in the Atlas mountains to include some ascent away from the villages and not go to the Agafay desert. We felt we spent a long time travelling and would have enjoyed more time hiking. Just a thought for your future trips.

Adam.L (Hertfordshire)

Retreat Date 15th - 19th October 2025

I was recommended to Philip Turner as I was on the hunt for a new fitness retreat experience. Philip didn’t disappoint! He makes sure the experience is enjoyable from start to finish. The venue in Marrakesh is delightful with comfortable accommodation, a swimming pool for lengths and kind and friendly locals who made wonderful food, 3 times a day for our duration! Philip’s programme of fitness is beneficial for all levels of training…land and pool based exercises that test your abilities. Plus a local and knowledgable yoga teacher gave a couple of excellent classes. Add to the above constant sunny days, a day into the Atlas Mountains and Desert and for sure I will return… thank you Philip

Rob.L (Gloucestershire)

Retreat Date 15th - 19th October 2025

A memorable week with a memorable group. Thank you Philip for organising such a great fitness retreat at Leila Farmhouse. The villa was luxurious, the staff looked after us impeccably and Philip’s mix of fitness classes, unforgettable play lists and trips out all added up to a really fun few days. Highlights for me were the pool session, distracted by trying to guess 70s and 80s tv theme tunes , the ‘competitive’ class where we mixed exercises with against the clock scrabble and who could forget Sergeant Major Letitia, the yoga instructor who put us all in our place and demanded focus. On top of that, the night out in Marrakesh was hilarious and will live long in the memory

Thank you. Namaste

Sarah (North London)

Retreat Date 14th - 18th May 2025

I recently attended a fitness retreat in Marrakesh led by Phillip, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. From start to finish, the experience was exceptionally professional and well-organised. Phillip is an outstanding fitness instructor—knowledgeable, motivating, and incredibly supportive. Each session was thoughtfully planned, catering to all levels of fitness while pushing us just enough to feel challenged. The variety in workouts kept things engaging, and Phillip’s energy made it all the more enjoyable. One of the highlights of the retreat was the breathtaking walk in the Atlas Mountains. The scenery was absolutely stunning, and the hike was the perfect mix of exertion and awe-inspiring views. It added such a unique and memorable dimension to the fitness aspect of the retreat. The tour of Marrakesh was another standout. It was seamlessly organized and gave us a wonderful taste of the culture, history, and vibrant energy of the city. From the souks to the stunning architecture, every detail was taken care of. And let’s not forget the food—every meal was a delight! We were treated to fabulous Moroccan cuisine throughout the retreat, with fresh, delicious dishes. It was the perfect complement to the physical activities and a great way to immerse ourselves in the local culture. What truly stood out to me was the level of care and professionalism throughout the retreat. Everything ran like clockwork, from accommodations to transport to scheduling. The internal logistics were handled impeccably, allowing us to focus entirely on our health, fitness, and enjoyment. If you’re looking for a retreat that combines physical rejuvenation, adventure, cultural exploration, delicious food, and top-tier instruction, this one is a gem.

Catherine Edwards (Bedfordshire)

Retreat Date 14th - 18th May 2025

I think arriving the day before and settling in to the environment was beneficial for me and I also think an option to stay a day after to just chill before leaving would be good for some and perhaps could be an option - you wouldn’t necessarily have to hang around waiting for folk to leave - guests could arrange with the farm independently. I would have liked to go to the desert but not on the same day as the mountain walk - too much traveling in one day. I think your ability to compromise and adjust around different ideas and views of activities was helpful. I felt well looked after and catered for, which I appreciated. The food at the farm is delicious and wholesome. However, there is far too much and I started to feel overwhelmed with the amount. Maybe lunches could be lighter- perhaps just salads. The staff at the farm were just lovely and very discreet which gives a feel of being calm, easy and relaxing. Our driver was great and I felt safe while traveling. I can tell you put a lot of effort into making sure the whole experience is varied, positive, and beneficial for all:- providing a blend of fitness, wellbeing and culture. Thank you, I had a fabulous time and will definitely be recommending the experience.

Julia Seez (Hitchin, Herts)

Retreat Date 30th October - 3rd November 2024

Such an amazing retreat and unique experience! I went as a single traveller and was totally welcomed into the group. The farmhouse, location and setting was absolutely beautiful and the pool and food exceptional. The fitness part was perfect, you can do it all at your own pace, and it just felt like it blended into time to relax and swim in the pool as well. The trip was far more than fitness sessions - it was a complete Morocco experience; walking around Marrakesh with local guides including mint tea, browsing markets, secret gardens, yoga under the stars, evening drinks on the roof tops and even dancing! And also the local guided walks into the stunning Atlas mountains and the desert. I cannot recommend it enough .. and take your camera as the colours, scenery and vibrancy make for stunning photos!

Chris Leaver (Pulloxhill, Bedfordshire)

Retreat Date 30th October - 3rd November 2024

Having never been on a fitness retreat, my wife and I were not sure what to expect, but we needn’t have worried - Philip’s Wellbeing Escape perfectly blends a focus on fitness & wellbeing with the opportunity to experience some of the highlights Marrakesh has to offer. Based in a luxurious setting, just outside of Marrakesh, the location is truly stunning and offers a tranquil escape from the pressures of daily life, with Philip and Team always on hand to ensure we had everything we needed to make it a fabulous experience. Philip is a superb Coach, able to balance the individual fitness needs and abilities of everyone, no matter how diverse group. Each of the sessions is designed to educate as wells as work-out his class, Philip using his deep experience to ensure everyone works to their individual level, while having a lot of fun on the way. Alongside the fitness elements, the retreat offers the opportunity to practise Yoga, led by one of Marrakesh’s leading Yoga houses, with sessions perfectly pitched to accommodate both the complete novice and experienced practitioner. While Fitness and Wellbeing is at the core of the retreat, it also offers a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the highlights of Marrakesh. Walking in the Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert, was a particular highlight, as well as the opportunity to experience Marrakesh’s legendary Souk and colourful Nightlife. For anyone worried if they are fit enough or flexible enough to enjoy the retreat, you really can trust Philip to ensure everyone has a rewarding and enjoyable time. We would whole heartedly recommend the Retreat to everyone, which by the end of the week, felt more like a holiday with friends, albeit one where we left fitter & stronger than we arrived! Magical.

Ray.B (Hertingfordbury, Hertfordshire)

Retreat Date 30th October - 3rd November 2024

It took me a while, but I finally found a break with the perfect balance of exercise and sightseeing ! Philip enables people of all fitness levels to engage in challenging activities in a beautifully tranquil location alongside being able to experience some of the highlights offered by Morocco, in terms of its landscapes, architecture, history and local cuisine. Enjoyed every minute.

Peter (Pirton, Hertfordshire)

Retreat Date 30th October - 3rd November 2024

Phil is the perfect host for the wellbeing “house party “ in the countryside outside of Marrakesh A wonderful venue and food . Fascinating walks in the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert . Visits to Marrakesh . A careful balance of fitness and exercise for all abilities with plenty of down time to chill . Great experience and value , now relaxed and refreshed . Thank you .

Vanessa (Pirton, Hertfordshire)

Retreat Date 30th October - 3rd November 2024

Beautiful surroundings, lovely food, the wonderful staff at Leila farmhouse were amazing at meeting my gluten free dietary needs. The mix of exercise classes, activities and visits providing a wonderful schedule, allowing us to learn and experience a little of the local culture / sights but also including down time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Philip ensures everything runs smoothly, tailoring exercises with ease to meet the mixed abilities of the group. This was our third fitness retreat with Philip Turner and as always, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We have come home feeling fitter, relaxed and with new friends!

Lexington Int (London) Corporate

Retreat Date 23rd October - 27th October 2024

Our team of ten found the Marrakesh Fitness Retreat to be an exceptional experience that successfully blended high-quality physical training with a truly inspiring cultural environment. Philips organisation was flawless, from the seamless logistics to the customised sessions for all fitness levels. We felt invigorated, productive, and thoroughly looked after. The facilities were excellent, and the focus on holistic wellness was a great complement to the challenging workouts. We highly recommend this retreat for corporate teams looking for a unique way to foster team cohesion and enhance overall well-being. We will re-book for next year.

Nicole & Marc Bennett (Radlett, Hertfordshire)