In Marrakech, where opulence and luxury reign, there are no shortage of hotels and riads offering travelers an “Arabian Nights” experience. Here, Culture Trip has put together our list of (architectural) gems that are sure to delight the most discerning guest traveling to Marrakech.
Royal Mansour
Built entirely by hand by the country’s finest craftsmen, the elegance and grandeur of the Royal Mansour doesn’t stop at the mind-blowing reception hall. The hotel is made up of individual Moroccan riads each with its own central courtyard surrounded by the living room, bar and dining room. Up on the first floor are the spacious and luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms while the rooftop terrace provides guests with a private swimming pool and views of Marrakech.
Known as the Grande Dame of Marrakech, La Mamounia recently underwent a major restoration project with the interior designed by the famed Jacques Garcia. With rooms overlooking either the famous Koutoubia Mosque or the famous La Mamounia gardens filled with bougainvilleas, cacti and even Barbary figs. Just steps away from the Marrakech medina, but another world from the hustle and bustle, La Mamounia is perfect for exploring both the old and new cities.
Prepare to feel like you’ve stepped in to a true palace upon arrival at the Selman Palace. Beautiful zellig tilework adorns the floors while brilliant chandeliers and plush purple furnishings, designed by Jacques Garcia, decorate the lobby where guests are greeted. The rooms overlook either the pool or the garden and feature king-sized beds and spacious lounges exuding grandeur and refined craftsmanship. Wander through the Jacques Garcia-designed stables to visit the owner’s collection of Arabian horses and don’t miss the Arabian horse show during Sunday brunch by the pool!
Surrounded by fragrant gardens and olive groves, the Mandarin Oriental is Marrakech’s newest resort just minutes from the city centre. Each of the luxurious suites and villas feature a king-sized bed and marble bathtub and plunge pool for those hot Marrakech days. From the private terraces, views of the Atlas Mountains or lush gardens can be had. After all, it is Marrakech and the views are breathtaking! This is a perfect option for families or couples on a romantic getaway.
Arched doorways allowing the afternoon light to pass beautifully and a gorgeous plunge pool mirroring the surrounding date palm trees makes entering the Amanjena a “1,001 Nights” experience. But step inside the pavilions to be amazed – king-sized beds, romantic fireplaces, plunge pools and private gardens are all standard features! Built to resemble a sultan’s palace, it’s understandable if guests don’t want to venture outside of the hotel!
