Active Morocco

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

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

Step out of the medina through a nondescript wooden door into one of the city’s most stylish oases. Le Farnatchi has just 10 unique suites, blending Moroccan and European influences, all have fireplaces, a balcony or patio, plenty of living space and grand bathrooms. When it comes to decor, you’ll find hand-crafted beds, hand-carved plasterwork, Moroccan tiles and locally-produced furniture.

The hotel’s restaurant, Le Trou au Mur, is chic and laid-back space offering a selection of traditional and intricate Moroccan dishes. There’s also a selection of international comfort food.

Take time for yourself to recharge, book a session or two at the Le Farnatchi spa with its private marble hammams, tranquil treatment rooms and world-class local beauty products.

Overview

The Villa Maroc is a charming little riad formed from four 18th century houses in a fantastic location between the beach, harbour and the heart of the medina.

Interiors are shabby-chic with whitewashed walls, a scattering of antiques and traditional tiled floors. There are 21 room and suites in all manner of shapes and sizes, including two family friendly apartments.

Elsewhere in the slightly maze-like property you’ll find quiet spots to read, fire-warmed lounges, a bar, small spa and roof terrace with great views where light breakfasts are served. Traditional three-course dinners can be arranged as can barbecue lunches in the countryside at the property’s sister villa – Les Jardins de Villa Maroc – which also has a swimming pool and can be reached by shuttle.

Overview

The Heure Bleue Palais is the only Relais & Châteaux in Essaouria, a 19th century riad built into the medina walls that was lovingly renovated into a charming hotel in 2004. There are 33 rooms and suites arranged around a plant-filled courtyard, all traditional in style. Most suites also have fireplaces separating the bedrooms from the sitting areas.

Dining options are varied, ranging from tapas and cocktails at Kemia to elegant Moroccan cuisine at the candle-lit Salon Oriental. Atop this is an impressive roof terrace with the open-air Terrace Grill, heated swimming pool and sun loungers enjoying panoramic views over the town and ocean. There’s also a fine bar in the plush English Lounge.

Finally, as you’d expect from a hotel in region of essential oils and Argan, Heure Bleue Palais has a traditional Hammam and a range of wellness treatments available.

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.

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.