A Moroccan Grand Tour

Overview

Once a sumptuous harem as part of a palatial 17th century complex of riads, the Karawan Riad was restored over a decade to recapture its former atmosphere with the help of local artisans and their traditional skills.

Among the most lavish offerings in the medina, all seven romantic suites are unique with unique furniture, antique textiles and original art works along with vast beds, exquisite bed linens and a number of discrete modern touches like underfloor heating and air conditioning.

The riad is centre around the courtyard, off which you can find the restaurant, library and Ottoman-style hamman spa. Tea here is a delightful affair thanks to a very talented pastry chef, and you can enjoy meals and drinks either down in the dining room, salon or up on the roof terrace.

Overview

At the edge of the medina, the Riad Fes is a Relais & Châteaux property with a traditional feel, blending Andalusian, Moroccan and modern décor in a way that reflects the city’s heritage and its current.

Four communal patios are distinctly styled in traditional, Moorish, Baroque, and contemporary finishes with colonnaded arcades, stylish pools, zellige tiles and fine stuccowork.

Around these, find 30 rooms and suites – the largest of which are positively palatial – refined Moroccan food in L’Ambre Restaurant, hammams, lounges, a wine bar and a library.

Up on the rooftop, enjoy fabulous panoramic views of the medina and mountains beyond with a drink from the bar in hand, a most spectacular scene at sunset.

Overview

The Palais Amani is a charming riad set just inside the medina, close to the Tannery Quarter, owned by a British-Moroccan couple.

Just 15 rooms are found around a beautiful central courtyard garden. Given the property’s historic nature, each is unique, some with beds on mezzanines, salons and dressing rooms.

The Palais Amani’s restaurant, the Market Moroccan, serves a monthly changing three-course bistro menu of healthy dishes reflecting the abundance of seasonal produce from the markets just outside, the secrets of which you can learn in fabulous the Amani Cookery Workshop. A bar with 360-degree views sits atop the riad.

There is a hamman spa and massages can take place in rooms overlooking the garden or in a tented pergola which also can be found up on the roof terrace.

Overview

On the site of a former colonial palace with views taking in the old medina, the Hotel Sahrai is a strikingly modern take on Moroccan architecture.

Great arches, mirroring the former façade, shade colonnaded pathways that lead into lush atriums and to 50 stylish rooms and suites, some of which have their own private terrace area.

There are two restaurants – Relais de Paris, with a menu of French brasserie favorites, and Amaraz, which serves traditional Moroccan in a simple yet sophisticating setting. Up on the rooftop, find a wonderful swimming pool and hip bar. The hotel is also home to a Givenchy spa and gym.

Overview

Behind a modest facade close to the Koutoubia Mosque and bustling Jemaa El Fna Square, what was once a grand private riad has been transformed into a sanctuary of a luxury hotel.

The Villa des Orangers is an elegant place, with 27 rooms and suites arranged around three garden patios, fragrant with citrus tree accompanied by the sounds of songbirds and tricking fountains. Décor is palatial, with fine fabrics, intricate stuccowork, carved wood and antiques. Most of the rooms have their own balconies or terraces, with the ‘Private Riad’ enjoying two bedrooms, solarium, plunge pool and its own private entrance.

A sparkling swimming pool sits at the heart of the property (a can be found on the rooftop overlooking second rooftop overlooking the Koutoubia and Atlas Mountains), next to which is the excellent Mediterranean restaurant. Other spots to relax include fire-warmed lounges, a cigar cellar, an impressive hammam and a spa.

Overview

Inside the walls of Marrakesh’s medina, across the road from the Saadian and short walk from the buzz of Jemaa El Fna square, La Sultana is an intimate luxury hotel made up of a five 19th century riads, each delicately resorted to retain its elegant charm and a palpable sense of history.

Maze-like alleys ways lead to sprawling corridors, hidden chambers and peaceful courtyards. There are 28 rooms and suites, each uniquely designed but with a traditional theme of hand carved woods, rich fabrics, antique furniture, fireplaces and sculpted ceilings.

La Sultana’s restaurant offers delicate Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine with tasting menus served in the cosy patio during the winter or up on the rooftop terrace with fabulous city views, as well as lighter street food-inspired lunches and homemade breakfasts. Cooking classes are held in the open air on the rooftop every morning. The views of the Medina and its monuments are lovely from here.

There’s also a courtyard swimming pool and a sumptuous vaulted spa with two hammans, jacuzzi, sauna, baths, open-air massage booths and a rich selection of natural local products.

Overview

A short way south east of the bustling medina, the Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is an understatedly opulent resort set nestled amid 20 hectares of olive groves and fragrant gardens centred around a serene series of ponds with the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop.

There are 54 expansive one- and two-bed villas, each with a heated pool, jacuzzi and open-air shower set within a private walled garden. Seven suites have rooftop plunge pools making the most of the views while two Infinity Pool Suites offer direct access to the spa. The design throughout them all is a calm blend of traditional Moroccan décor and elegant contemporary touches.

Dining here is superb with three restaurants – traditional Moroccan cuisine with a contemporary twist at Mes’Lalla, al fresco, all-day dining at Pool Garden, fine Cantonese dishes and innovative at Ling Ling, and lighter bites and champagne at Le Salon Berbère. Of course you can also have food brought to your villa or suite at any hour.

The spa is world class, drawing on the Mandarin’s Oriental heritage and Moroccan location to create a holistic oasis with two hammams, four private treatment rooms, heated pool, yoga studio and comprehensive fitness centre.

Overview

In an enviable location close to Marrakesh’s medina and Jemaa el Fna square, in the middle of beautiful royal gardens from which it takes its name, La Mamounia is an icon of luxury and Moroccan hospitality.

For almost a century, the landmark hotel has attracted dignified clientele from around the globe, being a firm favourite of Winston Churchill (who has both a suite and bar named in his honour) and Hollywood stars, as well being where James Stewart and Doris Day stay in Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’.

While countless other luxury hotels have opened in Marrakesh since 1923, La Mamounia has confidently remained one of the finest establishments in the city with modern yet considerate updates under notable architects to its palatial Deco-Moroccan interiors, world class chefs and timeless service.

There are 136 rooms, 71 suites and three private three-bedroom riads. The higher the floor, the better the view over the medina or gardens, especially from those with private balconies. The style is unashamedly Moroccan, with dazzling tiles, intricate stuccowork and sumptuous fabrics.

Four acclaimed restaurants include the slightly formal Le Français, L’Italien and fabulous Le Marocain, each serving modern takes on national cuisine, as well as the relaxed Pool Pavilion, the spot for breakfast and lunch buffets as well as a famous Sunday brunch. There are also four bars and a pastry shop which sits the edge of the park.

Another highlight here is the expansive spa, with traditional hammams, heated pool, and numerous booths to indulge in all-natural products made from Moroccan argon oil, ghassoul, saffron and more.

Overview

On the eastern edge of Marrakesh’s historic medina, the Royal Mansour is a private enclave built for the king of Morocco that has set new standards for luxury in the city.

There are no suites or rooms here. On arrival, you will be escorted through palatial Alhambra-inspired gardens to your private three-storey riad, one of 53 here. On the ground floor find a central courtyard, living room and bar. Bedrooms (one to four rooms) and bathrooms are on the first floor with a plunge pool and fireplace on a Bedouin tent shaded roof terrace overlooking the city. The larger riads also feature dining rooms, their own swimming pools, steam rooms and private hammam. Each are uniquely decorated and lavishly appointed with fine silks, contemporary art, intricate mosaic and stuccowork, and handmade furniture, a fine blend of tradition and modernity that was the work of some 1200 craftspeople.

Service here is exemplary and discreet. Riads are assigned staff – two bedrooms or more will garner you a personal butler – who reach each residence via a network of underground tunnels, presenting fine meals and the like meaning you need never leave.

A wonder through the rest of this exclusive mini-medina reveals it to be a true architectural masterpiece, with a large outdoor pool, tea lounge, library, art gallery and one of the finest hammam spas in the country. There are also three glamorous bars including a fumoir, and three fabulous restaurant; the relaxed La Table, and two fine dining options, one French and one Moroccan, overseen by three time Michelin star awarded chef Yannick Alléno.

When you do venture out, the excellent concierge team can recommend the best souks, boutiques and galleries, or you can discover the old town by horse and carriage. Special excursions to the mountains and desert beyond can also be arranged.

Overview

Set in its own expanse of gardens, Amanjena’s architecture has been inspired by the rose-hued buildings of old Marrakech. Shaded courtyards, vaulted ceilings and petal-strewn fountains invite you to relax and drink in the views out across olive groves and palms towards the High Atlas Mountains. The spacious standalone guest pavilions and maisons boast private gardens and some have private pool. The elegant dwellings have been designed to create a cool oasis for you, think scattered Berber carpets, zellij-tiled floors, candle lanterns and high ceilings.

Dine on authentic local cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. In addition to Moroccan dishes, you can also savour seasonal Italian family favourites at Arva, and Japanese fare Nama beside the pool. Private dining experiences can be arranged in a variety of atmospheric spots around the property.

Relax at the pool, play a game of tennis on one of the clay courts, take to the 27-hole Amelkis Golf Course next door, or head out into the otherworldly landscape of the Agafay dunes.

Overview

In the sand sea of Chigaga, a tongue of the Sahara Desert around three hours through the dune from the frontier town of Zagora, exists a simple sense of luxury that perfectly suits a night among the dunes.

Each tent has an en suite shower with water heated on request. Outside find a lounge where you can relax with fresh tea and be attended to by your personal butler, and a al fresco dining area which is the perfect setting for four-course French-Moroccan dinners  under the stars after time exploring the dunes by camel or on foot.

Overview

Situated among the beautiful sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, Itran Royal Camp offers you a relaxing place to drink in the sights and sounds of the ever-changing desert. It is the perfect getaway for honeymooners or small groups looking for uncompromising solitude.

The ten spacious, luxury tents are comfortable. Think elegant, clean lines and pops of bright colour. Spend your days here exploring the enchanting desert or simply unwinding and reflecting.

Head out on sunset camel rides, enjoy sunrise from on top of the dunes, and savour delectable Moroccan dinners under the stars. Dining at Itran Royal Camp is a sumptuous affair with a feast of Moroccan flavours to ensure you’re never hungry.

Overview

In the rugged foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, the Kasbah Tamadot – meaning soft breeze in Berber – is a stunning luxury retreat in a valley just an hour from the bustling Marrakesh.

The expansive estate can be divided into four main areas. The original Kasbah building contains 15 original rooms, indoor pool, spa, library, tented Asmoun Lounge and a stunning courtyard reflection pool. Lovingly restored from what was once a crumbling fortress, the unique rooms feature a smattering of antiques, many with private balconies or terraces, and the best located for views of the valley and Atlas Mountains.

Next to this is the fabulous heated outdoor swimming pool (ideal for winter dips), hot tub, amphitheatre, sundeck, gym, spa treatment room and a collection of fruit trees.

On the other side of the pool, find the Master Suite, a miniature version of the main Kasbah with three bedrooms and a private pool, an ideal set up for families.

Beyond this are extensive gardens, tennis courts and the 10 Berber Tents. Sitting on decking overlooking the valley below and mountains beyond. All are sumptuous and six have their own jacuzzi.

The Kanoun Restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine and, if the weather suits, you can dine al fresco by the pool or on the rooftop terrace. There’s also an intimate fireside bar where you can try the local Moroccan wines.

This is a great place to simply relax after time in the city but there’s plenty on offer to keep you busy too. You can learn the secrets of Berber cooking with relaxed culinary classes, visit to the local craft houses in the neighbouring villages supported by the Eve Branson Foundation, trek along the river or up mountains on a range of trails or get acquainted with our resident mules, Peppermint, Peanut and Paprika, before a ride around the property. On warmer evenings Kasbah Tamadot hosts cinema nights where you can watch a selection of Moroccan inspired films in the open-air under the stars. Children of all ages are welcome and a range of activities can be tailored to suit each child.

Overview

The Kasbah Bab Ourika stands on a hill looking down on the Ourika Valley’s river, green fields and citrus groves, all framed by the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains.

There are 26 beautiful rooms, each individually decorated in a way that blends traditional Berber architecture with vintage pieces and modern luxuries. Rooms are split between the main earthen building and the garden, including two pool suites, and all enjoy outstanding views. It is one of the most eco-friendly buildings in the country and was constructed using traditional methods.

A fabulous place to escape the energy of Marrakesh, relax in the extensive gardens, read in the fire-warmed lounge or watch the sun set from the infinity pool. Meals are served in the gardens or in the colonnaded restaurant by a chef who specialises in traditional Berber recipes as well as international cuisine. There’s also a spa and hammam, camel trekking, guided village walks, a number of hikes, mountain biking and more.