Marrakech continues to boom, and over recent decades the city, especially it’s landscaped outskirts are unrecognisable, now home to ultraluxury resorts, residential developments, and golf courses.

Selman Marrakech resort

Selman Marrakech opened in 2012 as a family project from Saida and Abdeslam Bennani Smires, shaped by Jacques Garcia design and alive with an equestrian spirit. Rose gardens scent the air, and twisted olive trees cast quiet pockets of shade. Two handsome stables and five paddocks hold a private collection of purebred Arabian horses, while the Chenot Spa completes this distinctive resort.

La Terrasse

Arriving for lunch we pass through the decadently furnished entrance salon and step out onto the elevated terrace. There’s a fountain at the centre, while the shaded tables are dressed in white linen with elegant ceramics. Beyond the terrace balustrade the long pool draws a cool line through the gardens towards the Andalusian Pavilion. The suited headwaiter greets us and takes us to our table.

La Terrasse is the first milestone in the hotel’s collaboration with Jean-François Piège, who began working with Selman Marrakech in 2024. The brief is simple to describe and satisfying to taste. Marry Moroccan produce with Mediterranean ease, while the team deliver it with grace.

Lunch here begins with a cocktail. The Cos’Moroccan brings marjoram-infused vodka, green lemon, and cranberry into a refreshing sip. Next time I’d like to try the aromatic sage margarita.

Menu by Chef Jean-François Piège

Our first plates include dill-marinated gravlax sea bream, lifted by cucumber vinegar, exquisitely presented on a green ceramic dish, The Mimosa eggs are topped with salmon roe and a little dill, and the creative Wild squid carbonara replaces pasta with thin ribbons of squid, tangled through a light carbonara that takes a subtle hint of smoked beef. A golden egg yoke rests on top, ready to be stirred in, coating each strand. The sommelier suggests a Moroccan white, Grande Cuvée Vin Blanc AOG Zaër.

Later came long dishes of skewered salmon with a gentle sweet-and-sour glaze that catches the heat so the edges char lightly while the centre stays tender. The mixed lamb skewers are a hit too.

The vanilla bean crème brûlée cracks with a clean snap, revealing a delicious creamy custard. The pure origin chocolate soufflé delivers depth and richness; these puddings are definitely for sharing. For a fresher finish, a plate of pineapple with pomegranate and mint is a light choice.

The setting for this memorable lunch is magical, with its view of the 80-metre pool, said to the longest in the city, if not Morocco. I can understand why La Terrasse is sought after for outdoor lunches, unhurried afternoon teas and intimate dinners under the stars.

The partnership with Piège also stretches to the Pool Bar and room service with light, refreshing plates, and a fine dining room, SABO by Jean-François Piège.

Accommodation

Selman Marrakech offers luxury accommodation across thirty rooms, twenty Junior Suites, and five Suites as well as five Private Villas, each with designer Garcia’s signature style of rich textures and colour. Many open to terraces or private gardens. Privacy comes easily, not through gimmicks but through space and planning.

Wellbeing

The Chenot Spa is worth a visit. Unique in Morocco, it covers 1,200 square metres with seven treatment rooms, four hydrotherapy rooms, a hydro-massage pool, two heated outdoor pools, two hammams and a gym. The mood nods to the heated baths of old Istanbul while applying the Chenot method to restore rhythm and balance.

Before one goes, explore the gardens too, strolling past the paddocks to the stables.

The post La Terrasse by Jean-François Piège, Selman Marrakech – Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

The property is set with the ancient walled city of Marrakech, with the vibrancy of the medina on the doorstep, yet life inside Riad Tarabel moves at a much gentler pace. Courtyards seclude meditative alcoves; sun bathing areas and a garden of orange trees filled with birdsong. There is a ground-floor pool, a smaller rooftop plunge pool, and a myriad of quiet corners to dine in privacy.

The signature hammam and spa, Les Bains de Tarabel, opens through a disguised mirror door and works with all-natural Moroccan products. Breakfast brings freshly made breads, Moroccan pancakes, and fresh fruit, served on the roof (or by the fire in cooler months).

Fifteen to twenty minutes from the airport, and a few steps from Dar El Bacha Palace, Le Jardin Secret, and small museums, Tarabel gives you the essence of old Marrakech without the chaos. It feels like your own home in the medina.

Magical Morocco

Marrakech sits close to Europe, almost within reach, yet the moment you enter the medina the energy changes. Spices, leather, cedarwood. I have been coming for more than twenty-five years and watched the city evolve: international names arriving outside the city opening ultra luxury resort and golf clubs, a new wave of refined riads within the medina, and a dining scene that grows ever more extravagant. Still, the heart of the old city endures. Lanes are narrow and shaded. Barrows are piled high with pomegranates and prickly pears. Scooters skim past with millimetres to spare. Its inspiring and intoxicating, so a place to retreat and relax is essential.

Tarabel is the perfect place. In Dar El Bacha, where the streets feel unusually well-kept and the boutiques are tasteful rather than touristy, down a dead-end alleyway one reaches the entrance of the riad, opening to the garden of citrus trees and a fountain that cools the central courtyard. The scent of orange blossom fills the air. You are greeted by an iced mint tea with a generous sprig, and a plate of handmade biscuits. The bustle has fades and you immediately relax,

Chic Retreat

What looks modest from the alley is, in fact, an elegant mansion created from five interlinked riads, shaped since 2007 with patience and care. High walls hold out the heat. Archways and salons open to the courtyards like stage sets, beautifully curated and composed. Co-owner and interior decorator Rose Fournier layers the place with her collector’s eye. There are antique maps and botanical prints, flea-market finds, and the signature painted wall paper in the main salon. Freshly cut flowers brings live into each space. By evening the whole house glows with lanterns.

Space to Relax

The ten suites feel individual. The comfortable bed sat at the centre of my suite dressed with white linens and emerald throw. Triple-shuttered windows let the light stream in. The bathroom was generous and tactile, with smooth tadelakt walls, a double shower, and a roll-top tub. The Ortigia Ambra Nera products suit the city, resinous, warm, with a touch of spice.

Each building is set around a courtyard. There’s the main courtyard garden, while another holds the main pool, a place for a late swim or a simple lunch at a shaded table. An intimate courtyard with deep daybed sofas invites reading, its carved woodwork a beautiful piece of artisan heritage. The final courtyard is home to the spa.

Wellbeing Rituals

The spa, Les Bains de Tarabel, sits behind a mirrored door. Manager Rkia and her team work with intuition and Nectarome’s all-natural Moroccan formulas. The hammam follows an ancestral sequence: a sea-salt foot bath scented with bitter orange, a eucalyptus black-soap cleanse, a gentle Kessa scrub, then a warm ghassoul wrap enriched with seven herbs. Massages are calming and nurturing. You choose your argan oil; neroli, of course, for me as relaxation was my goal. There are two hammams and three treatment rooms, including spaces for couples, and a separate street entrance for non-residents, though guests reach it as if by secret.

Dining

Dining is personal. Chef Madame Saida Amslil cooks to order: bright, herb-rich Moroccan salads, lunchtime skewers with just the touch of spice and smoke; an evening chicken tagine that comforts. Moroccan wines continue to surprise; I really enjoyed the sauvignon Blanc. Table settings matter here, with the impeccable attention to details with fine china, that perfectly complements the olive-green and charcoal ceramic tagines, while menus sheathed in covers echoing the hand-painted Zuber wallpaper of the summer salon. Breakfast on the roof terrace became my daily ritual: with a strong coffee, baskets of breads and pastries still warm from the oven, msemmen to drizzle with local honey, khobz to tear and dip in olive oil or smother with homemade fig jam, as well as baghrir and harsha and eggs prepared to order.

There are terraces and courtyards for chasing the sun and the roof terrace as a small plunge pool to help stay cool during the day, while the daybeds invite everything from an afternoon doze to a nightcap under the stars

Medina meanderings

Outside, the city is alive. From Tarabel you reach Le Jardin Secret in minutes, its pavilions and gardens a timeless homage to Moroccan geometry and the importance of water. Cross the medina in around ten minutes and you find small places that will delight, like the House of Photography with its remarkable portraits from the mid-19^th century to early 20^th century, or lose yourself in the extraordinary architecture of the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa.

Evenings can be anything you want them to be, as Marrakech has emerged as a global city, with a diversity of restaurants, bars, and clubs, from traditional tea houses to the most decadent night-clubs.

And you know you always have Tarabel to come home to, a magical place that so deftly balances the city’s intensity with a calm curated haven.

The post Riad Tarabel – Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

The bustling Medina isn’t unique when it comes to crowds. Due to increased traffic at Marrakech airport, I pre-booked ‘fast track’ to avoid the long lines at immigration. It’s then just a 20-minute transfer to the resort.

The Fairmont Royal Palm’s modern architecture remains true to its rich Moroccan roots. It isn’t a boutique riad, but a large, exotic and modern resort with multiple over-sized swimming pools, a golf course, as well as padle and tennis courts. However, for me, the world-class Fairmont Spa is the shining star, where marocMaroc and Natura Bissé products are used to nurture your soul.

The Fairmont Spa alone is reason to stay here. On entering the spa, the scent of orange blossom and rose envelops you. The many features include indoor and outdoor pools, a huge hammam area with seven single and double cabins, a private hammam area with two saunas, a thirteen-roomed massage area (some with jacuzzi), inside and outside relaxation areas, a beauty space for facials, manicures and pedicures, as well as a barber shop and a boutique.

Choose a massage with pouches of herbs or the legendary Moroccan argan oil, hot stone therapy, hammam rituals with the fabled Ghassoul wraps infused with musk clay and natural plant extracts, specific treatments for golfers, reflexology, or signature facials. The highly trained spa technicians listen to your specific requests to personalise every single treatment.

I asked for a toned-down traditional hammam, with the heat lowered slightly – the locals can tolerate blood-boiling temperatures. That’s the beauty of the Fairmont Spa, they cater to your needs to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible. I left my dignity at the hammam door as I was lathered in black soap from head to toe while lying on a tiled bench, flipping over from one side to the other like a slippery fish. I was doused in warm water, then exfoliated to the very last layer… at least it felt that way. It was intimate, but I was in a safe space. I hadn’t been bathed like that since childhood when scrubbed by my mother! Any inhibitions were washed away, and I can truly say that my skin had never felt so soft and clean. This baby was not thrown out with the bathwater and I slept like an infant that night.

At the resort, you may indulge in fine food at the many internationally inspired restaurants serving Moroccan, Japanese and Italian food. Whichever restaurant you choose, the food will be excellent. 

Le Bar (with its own cigar lounge) is the place to sip cooling drinks and imaginatively named cocktails in stunning surroundings with live DJ performances. It’s all just a short walk from your room, along quiet pathways lined with swaying palms and olive trees. You’re unlikely to bump into anyone apart from gardeners and staff, who provide a high level of care in keeping the resort so aesthetically appealing.

Le Capricci serves international breakfast and dinner (Italian), contemporary L’Olivier serves Mediterranean food by the pool, while terraced Sabre at the golf course is perfectly situated under the shade of olive trees.

The Farm, which grows herbs and vegetables for the resort’s many kitchens, is also used as an idyllic picnic-style lunch spot, where food is served on low tables while guests sit on traditional poufs surrounded by olive trees and musicians perform soothing songs.

The rooms at the Fairmont Royal Palm are vast, with high ceilings that create a spacious domain, and superb views across the pool and golf course to the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains.

If you don’t want to walk in the heat, golf carts can be called upon to take you anywhere within the confines of the resort, or take a resort bicycle to cycle around the extensive grounds.

Evenings offer a welcome coolness, as do early mornings, so packing a light layer is advisable. Generally, March to May is the busiest time to visit Morocco; the weather is pleasantly warm with sunny days in the 70^os inland, while the coast offers slightly cooler weather. July and August bring intense heat, but during September to November the weather is most agreeable, and December to March is cooler.

The local currency is the dirham, which is broken down into 100 santimat. However, being a closed currency, it can only be bought on arrival in Morocco. Having local cash in your pocket is handy for purchasing trinkets from the Medina, or for cafés and taxi fares. 

The resort can arrange a transfer to Marrakech’s world-famous Medina, where getting lost is part of the appeal; just follow your nose, ducking and diving, dodging donkey carts, wheelbarrows, bicycles and scooters as they zip along the narrow walled alleyways. The heavy scent of spices draws you towards the spice market, then the pungent smell of leather leads you to the stalls of shoes and bags. You can also find a quiet café to sit and watch the organised chaos of Marrakech Medina. 

The Fairmont Royal Palm is the perfect spot for either a long, pampering stay or, from Europe, a luxurious weekend experience at a tranquil oasis, where minimum effort brings maximum enjoyment. 

This property is included in our guide to the best hotels in Marrakesh

The post Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakesh – Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

Petanque Social Club

Petanque Social Club, unveiled in Gueliz, Marrakech’s historic French Quarter, is Kamal Laftimi’s latest endeavor, known for his ventures like Le Jardin and Nomad. It blends international cuisine with a unique flair, set within a space designed by DiegoandAlexeja Art & Design Studio. Their design, inspired by the original club from the 1930s and infused with contemporary Marrakech culture, offers a modern twist. The club serves as a vibrant meeting point for artists, dancers, and life enthusiasts, featuring both indoor and outdoor spaces for diverse gatherings as well as a fantastic food and drink across their restaurant and cocktail bar.

pscmarrakech.com

La Trattoria

La Trattoria is one of Marrakech’s oldest international restaurants, designed by Bill Willis and located in one of the few remaining Art Deco villas in the city in the city’s Gueliz, districty. The restaurant includes a cocktail bar, dining room, and courtyard where tables are arranged around a large swimming pool. Throughout the restaurant, vintage Western style mixes with traditional Moroccan details. Enjoy classic Italian dishes, especially seafood spaghetti and fish, but whatever you choose, don’t skip the tiramisu for dessert and make sure you bring a camera as this restaurant really offers the wow factor!

latrattoriamarrakech.com

Plus61

Blending the minimalist aesthetic of +61 with the vibrant essence of Marrakesh is exactly what co-founder Cassandra Karinsky, a Sydney-origin designer who joined forces with Nomad entrepreneur Sebastian de Gzell to inaugurate this restaurant in the Gueliz district has achieved. Their vision was to encapsulate the Australian lifestyle’s essence in their dining establishment, aiming for a relaxed, upscale dining ambience rather than a casual beach vibe. The cuisine, influenced by Middle Eastern, European, and South Asian traditions, focuses on a concise, seasonally changing menu. Emphasizing collaboration with local, bio-organic producers, the chefs ensure a commitment to quality and sustainability.

plus61.com

Dar Yacout

Dar Yacout is a landmark restaurant in Marrakesh. It was amongst the first restaurants created around thirty years ago in the medina by Mohamed Zkhiri. Behind a large wooden door, you enter another world – the decor is enchanting with its private rooms and breathtaking panoramic view from the terrace overlooking the medina and the Koutoubia mosque of Marrakesh. Traditional Moroccan gastronomic cuisine with a menu incorporating an amazing succession of flavours feels never-ending as course after course is presented, while traditional live Moroccan music plays in the background serenading you in what is an unforgettable experience.

www.daryacout.com

Le Trou Au Mur

If you are not staying in Jonathan and James Wix’s glorious Riad Farnatchi (see below) then pop across the road from the hotel to their restaurant Le Trou Au Mur and you won’t be disappointed. Open for lunch and dinner this destination restaurant is chic, the service is flawless and the food is beautiful. Located in an old riad in one of the oldest parts of the Medina, you can dine on the rooftop in the warmer months and head to the first-floor restaurant during the cooler days. The restaurant uses a traditional clay mechoui oven to create many of the mouth-watering traditional Moroccan menu options. Our favourite dishes are the Moroccan Salad and Tihane for starters and the Lamb Shoulder and traditional Offal Medley for mains and if you want something closer to home they also offer a range of International dishes too.

www.letrouaumur.com

Nomad

Nomad opened in 2014 by Kamal Laftimi and Sebastian de Gzell in an old carpet store off the famed Rahba Lakdima spice square and the restaurant is a hit with tourists visiting the city. With a strong emphasis on fresh local produce and ample variety for vegetarians, pescatarians, and carnivores alike, the lively restaurant serves simple “Modern Moroccan” cuisine and revisions of traditional local cuisine and international dishes with a Moroccan twist. Spread over four floors, make sure you get a table on the top floor of the roof for the most incredible sunset views over Marrakech.

www.nomadmarrakech.com

L’Italien by Jean-Georges at La Mamounia

L’Italien by Jean-Georges at La Mamounia offers a refined dining experience, embodying the charm and elegance of Italian cuisine with a touch of the local ambience. The restaurant’s design, envisioned by Patrick Jouin and Sangit Manku, transports guests to a Roman trattoria through its light-filled winter garden, playful decor, and almond green tones. The menu, rich with sun-drenched flavours, features a wide array of Italian dishes, from wood-fired pizzas and pastas to gourmet desserts by Pierre Hermé, complemented by a fine selection of Italian wines. While the setting allows diners to enjoy the spectacle of meals prepared on a central island, blending indoor comfort with the natural beauty of its garden terrace

mamounia.com

La Villa des Orangers

Located in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina, La Villa des Orangers offers a serene retreat as a luxurious 5-star hotel, complemented by its gourmet restaurant. Guests can enjoy dining amidst orange trees or by the pool, indulging in a culinary journey from East to West with French, Mediterranean, and Moroccan influences. The hotel itself, a traditional Moroccan riad transformed into a haven of tranquility, provides an authentic experience with modern comforts, reflecting the spirit of Moroccan culture.

www.villadesorangers.com

The post Best Restaurants In Marrakech appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

IZZA, also known as the “House of Friends,” opened its doors last September and offers an authentic slice of Moroccan life where guests can retreat into tranquillity while being just moments away from the heart of the action. Fourteen individually designed rooms pay tribute to a renowned figure associated with the city’s quest for liberty, making every stay a unique experience. From cosy luxury studios to expansive suites, IZZA caters to a diverse clientele, ensuring inclusivity and comfort for all. Interiors are inspired by the late Bill Willis the iconic figure in interior design in Marrakesh in the 60s’ who famously migrated from America to immerse himself in the local culture, and left an indelible mark on the city’s artistic landscape, an influence that IZZA proudly embodies.

£5 million Art Collection

Beyond its design and heritage, IZZA distinguishes itself as a modern cultural hub within the medina, housing an extensive collection of NFTs, AI artworks, and Moroccan photography valued at £5 million. This fusion of traditional aesthetics and contemporary digital art has earned it the title of the “1medina’s museum,” inviting guests to explore a new dimension of Moroccan creativity.

Around the Property

Seven interconnected riads present a labyrinth of stairs and corridors that connect each building offering break-out spaces to relax or socialise in.

The Library

Located on the first floor, this beautiful neuk is a bibliophile’s paradise, pick up a book and settle down with a fresh mint tea in front of the open fire.

Bills’ Bar & Cafe

Enjoy a cocktail or two in Bill’s Bar or take a moment to slow down in The Cafe with a coffee and freshly made cake.

Spa and Hammam

IZZA also offers a serene wellness sanctuary to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul amidst the city’s hustle. Including a massage room and invigorating hammam along with a fully equipped fitness centre (the only one in Marrakesh equipped with Peloton bikes and a Tonal smart gym system), all designed with a blend of beauty and contemporary art.

At the time of writing all room bookings include a complimentary 45 spa or hammam treatment.

Pools

Take a dip in the main ten-metre pool to escape the midday heat and enjoy a revitalising cocktail from Bill’s Bar which is conveniently located next to it. Or head to one of the other two plunge pools, one of which is on the rooftop.

Location

Located in a quieter area of Marrakesh’s Medina you have the best of both worlds as it’s just a short ten-minute walk to the main souks which are packed with independent shop owners and vendors, with the Medina’s famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square around twenty minutes to get to by foot as well. Looking for nightlife? Then head to Gueliz the new part of the city which is a ten-minute drive away and is alive with bars and restaurants. Check out our dining guide for inspiration.

Next to IZZA is the famous Dar Yacout restaurant a landmark in Marrakesh and well worth booking for dinner. The decor is enchanting with private rooms and a breathtaking panoramic view from the terrace overlooking the medina and the Koutoubia mosque of Marrakesh.

It’s also just a short 20-minute drive to Marrakesh Menara Airport, and pick-up and drop off can be arranged by the hotel to make your stay at IZZA seamless.

Rooms & Suites

Each of IZZA’s 12 rooms and two suites draws inspiration from Morocco’s non-conformist icons (think Think Grace Jones, Marianne Faithfull and Brion Gysin) offering a unique experience through a bold blend of individuality and cultural homage. Interiors feature zellige, tadelakt, and arabesque designs, with each unique space narrating its own eclectic story against the backdrop of Moroccan traditions.

Amenities include a luxurious wet room, Percale cotton linens, complimentary toiletries, built-in hardwood wardrobes with a safe and minibar, a selection of Nespresso and tea, air conditioning, and high-speed WiFi, ensuring a stay that’s as comfortable as it is culturally enriching.

My Suite During My Stay

Dedicated to the memory of IZZA, a revered Berber woman known for her strength, neighbourliness, and respect IZZA is one of two suites within the property (the other being Yves). The space features a split-level mezzanine complete with cube stairs and a corner sofa, a sizable OLED flat-screen TV, a lofted kitchen, a library in the bedroom extending from floor to ceiling, underfloor heating, and a secluded courtyard equipped with private seating and an Arabesque fountain.

Lounge

Bathroom

Bedroom

Kitchenette

Private Courtyard

Restaurant & Rooftop

At the heart of IZZA lies the “House of Friends” ethos which is reflected in the rooftop restaurant. Chefs Paul Weaver and Ahmad El Hardoum collaborated to design a menu that marries locally sourced ingredients with Moroccan inspirations and innovative touches. IZZA’s concept of social dining shines through a curated selection of small plates for sharing. Highlights include their tagines, ceviche and cous-cous filled fish, with each dish showcasing the fusion of Morocco’s rich culinary traditions with European elements, elevated by Weaver’s exceptional culinary artistry.

Lunch & Dinner

Breakfast

Friends of Izza

In addition to being a beautiful property, IZZA also supports local community initiatives, partnering with The Amal Women’s Training Center & Moroccan Restaurant to empower disadvantaged women through culinary training and job placements, alongside providing literacy training. It also backs The Jarjeer Donkey Rescue, focusing on the care of injured and malnourished working mules and donkeys, essential to Moroccan society. IZZA also collaborates with Pikala Bikes, which promotes education and employment among local youth through bicycle tourism and mechanic training, helping them earn additional income and gain professional skills.

Final Thoughts

Arrive at IZZA a stranger and leave as friends, this beautiful property is guaranteed to leave an ever-lasting impression on every guest who stays here. It’s stunning and we highly recommend it. A truly wonderful place! IZZA is included in our guide to the best hotels in Marrakech

The post IZZA – Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

Eat

Petanque Social Club

Petanque Social Club, unveiled in Gueliz, Marrakech’s historic French Quarter, is Kamal Laftimi’s latest endeavor, known for his ventures like Le Jardin and Nomad. It blends international cuisine with a unique flair, set within a space designed by DiegoandAlexeja Art & Design Studio. Their design, inspired by the original club from the 1930s and infused with contemporary Marrakech culture, offers a modern twist. The club serves as a vibrant meeting point for artists, dancers, and life enthusiasts, featuring both indoor and outdoor spaces for diverse gatherings as well as a fantastic food and drink across their restaurant and cocktail bar.

pscmarrakech.com

La Trattoria

La Trattoria is one of Marrakech’s oldest international restaurants, designed by Bill Willis and located in one of the few remaining Art Deco villas in the city in the city’s Gueliz, districty. The restaurant includes a cocktail bar, dining room, and courtyard where tables are arranged around a large swimming pool. Throughout the restaurant, vintage Western style mixes with traditional Moroccan details. Enjoy classic Italian dishes, especially seafood spaghetti and fish, but whatever you choose, don’t skip the tiramisu for dessert and make sure you bring a camera as this restaurant really offers the wow factor!

latrattoriamarrakech.com

Plus61

Blending the minimalist aesthetic of +61 with the vibrant essence of Marrakesh is exactly what co-founder Cassandra Karinsky, a Sydney-origin designer who joined forces with Nomad entrepreneur Sebastian de Gzell to inaugurate this restaurant in the Gueliz district has achieved. Their vision was to encapsulate the Australian lifestyle’s essence in their dining establishment, aiming for a relaxed, upscale dining ambience rather than a casual beach vibe. The cuisine, influenced by Middle Eastern, European, and South Asian traditions, focuses on a concise, seasonally changing menu. Emphasizing collaboration with local, bio-organic producers, the chefs ensure a commitment to quality and sustainability.

plus61.com

Dar Yacout

Dar Yacout is a landmark restaurant in Marrakesh. It was amongst the first restaurants created around thirty years ago in the medina by Mohamed Zkhiri. Behind a large wooden door, you enter another world – the decor is enchanting with its private rooms and breathtaking panoramic view from the terrace overlooking the medina and the Koutoubia mosque of Marrakesh. Traditional Moroccan gastronomic cuisine with a menu incorporating an amazing succession of flavours feels never-ending as course after course is presented, while traditional live Moroccan music plays in the background serenading you in what is an unforgettable experience.

www.daryacout.com

Amal Womens Centre Restaurant

This vibrant and laid-back courtyard eatery located in Gueliz operates as a charitable organization dedicated to providing hospitality and culinary training to underprivileged women. A number of its trainees gain practical experience by working at the restaurant, making it a favoured spot for lunch. The menu typically features a straightforward yet delicious rotating array of Moroccan staples such as tagines and kebabs, complemented by an international dish and freshly made lemonade infused with mint.

www.amalnonprofit.org

Le Trou Au Mur

If you are not staying in Jonathan and James Wix’s glorious Riad Farnatchi (see below) then pop across the road from the hotel to their restaurant Le Trou Au Mur and you won’t be disappointed. Open for lunch and dinner this destination restaurant is chic, the service is flawless and the food is beautiful. Located in an old riad in one of the oldest parts of the Medina, you can dine on the rooftop in the warmer months and head to the first-floor restaurant during the cooler days. The restaurant uses a traditional clay mechoui oven to create many of the mouth-watering traditional Moroccan menu options. Our favourite dishes are the Moroccan Salad and Tihane for starters and the Lamb Shoulder and traditional Offal Medley for mains and if you want something closer to home they also offer a range of International dishes too.

www.letrouaumur.com

Nomad

Nomad opened in 2014 by Kamal Laftimi and Sebastian de Gzell in an old carpet store off the famed Rahba Lakdima spice square and the restaurant is a hit with tourists visiting the city. With a strong emphasis on fresh local produce and ample variety for vegetarians, pescatarians, and carnivores alike, the lively restaurant serves simple “Modern Moroccan” cuisine and revisions of traditional local cuisine and international dishes with a Moroccan twist. Spread over four floors, make sure you get a table on the top floor of the roof for the most incredible sunset views over Marrakech.

www.nomadmarrakech.com

Quattro Four Seasons

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech’s main Medina and relax in complete luxury then head along to the Four Seasons Italian-themed Quattro Restaurant. The interior of Quattro showcases the cultural blend between southern Italy and Morocco and has both an indoor and an outdoor terrace which has views out to their Instagram-perfect central courtyard lined with palm trees. The menu itself weaves flavours of Sicilia, Puglia, Calabria and Campania together while other dishes focus on Arabic-influenced flavours. Signature dishes on the menu include their Paccheri Artiganali – Tiger Prawns and Lime and Millefoglie Di Pasta Fresca Al Cario, a delicious Ricotta cream, bottarga and lemon mint dressing and do not leave without trying a pizzoli, which is a stuffed Sicilian pizza, our favourites are the Spinach and Gorgonzola!

www.fourseasons.com

Do

Marrakech Insiders

Marrakech Insiders provides unique and tailor-made sidecar adventures that unveil the hidden gems of Marrakech. Passengers are guided on vintage map-led excursions through the city’s streets on several tour options. Among these, The Iconic Ride stands out as a 3-hour journey that escorts visitors to famous locations associated with Yves Saint-Laurent, in addition to exploring architectural marvels and interiors by Bill Willis. Each sidecar can host up to two guests, with the tour priced at €425 per individual.

marrakechinsiders.com

Pikala Bikes

Want to discover the beauty of Marrakech in the most fun way? Go on a bicycle tour! Together with a young, native tour guide, you will discover the mysteries of Marrakech while cycling. Pikala Bikes is transforming Marrakech by using the humble bike to bridge cultural divides and foster social and environmental benefits in a city previously unaccustomed to cycling. Founded by Cantal Bakker, Pikala not only introduces sustainable transportation but also creates jobs, empowers youth and women, and offers unique experiences for tourists.

www.pikalabikes.com

Jardin Marjoelle

A key tourist attraction in Marrakech so expect a long wait in a queue, but it is worth it! Jardin Majorelle is the creation of French painter Jacques Majorelle, who spent 40 years lovingly tending to this enchanting garden. The property was bought by YSL in the 1980s who worked to restore the garden and property and is now open to the public daily.

www.jardinmajorelle.com

YSL Museum

Located next door to Jardin Majorelle and opened in 2017 the Museum of YSL is a shrine to the French fashion designer and features a permanent exhibition with hundreds of garments from his 40-year career. Again like Jardin Majorelle, it is a very popular attraction so expect long queues and try to visit early morning or late afternoon when it is quieter.

www.museeyslmarrakech.com

Shopping in Souk Semmarine

Marrakech was built on its trading in its “souks” (large marketplaces) and many still exist today trading everything from tourist novelties to pottery, rubs, fabrics and leather goods. The biggest is Souk Semmerine which is a maze or winding lanes and shops and you can easily spend a few hours wandering around this magical part of the city, just try not to get lost!

La Mamounia Spa

La Mamounia Hotel is one of the city’s most luxurious and the spa is also open to non-residents who can book individual spa treatments and day experiences. The spa is the definition of Moroccan luxury and offers every treatment you could imagine. There are his and her hammams and you can even book a private spa if you want to completely get away from it all.

www.mamounia.com

Sleep

IZZA

IZZA, the most recent luxury hotel to open in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina. The property is a tribute to the late American socialite designer Bill Willis and presents fourteen exquisitely designed rooms (one with a feature alternate tread/witches’ staircase and kitchenette) which are set across seven interconnecting riads. A labyrinth of corridors leads to serene courtyards and plunge pools, a tranquil tearoom, a relaxing wellness spa, a composed library, and a rooftop terrace and restaurant presenting stunning views across the city. Owned by tech company Neon Adventures, IZZA integrates classic Marrakech aesthetics with contemporary art, thanks to its 300+ artwork collection costing £5 million. The hotel is a splendid fusion of contrasts; offering a blend of solitude and social spaces, vintage and modern furnishings, and a focus on local traditions and digital innovation, IZZA stands as a captivating retreat for those looking to explore the magic of Marrakech while enjoying exclusive events, cultural connections, and rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul – all bookings also include a complimentary 45 spa or hammam treatment.  

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Riad Farnatchi

The ultimate home from home in Marrakech, the five-star Riad Farnatchi is a lovingly converted collection of private houses located in the heart of the oldest part of the Medina. International hoteliers Jonathan and James Wix have created a characterful, luxurious hideaway where ten exquisitely decorated bedroom suites sit alongside five-star service and facilities. Staff outnumber guests, service is slick and discreet, and the new spa in the hotel is worth booking in for. Riad Farnatchi will feel more like your home for a stay in the city than a hotel.

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Four Seasons

Whether it’s enjoying the exquisite Quiet Pool and nearby poolside under shady palm trees or enjoying the delights of the Moroccan spa where you can bathe and enjoy the best exfoliating treatments and exotic oils, the Four Seasons is the perfect place to base yourself while exploring Marrakech and beyond. Rooms come with garden and pool views and offer the ultimate in relaxation, replete with Moroccan decor, delightful handcrafts and marble bathrooms. Rooms also offer a recessed balcony presenting the perfect way to unwind with a good book during the heat of the day. Others have large terraces enabling you to enjoy the ultimate in al fresco dining.

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La Sultana

A luxurious romantic hideaway within a walled medina of Marrakech, La Sultana is moments away from the royal palaces, museums and souks of this magical city. This is a small, luxury hotel that knows how to spoil its guests, especially in the spa. From almonds to dates, prickly pears to Damask roses, the alchemist-like therapists make the most of Morocco’s natural treasures. There’s a Jacuzzi, two hammams and a sauna here too – not to mention candlelit pools. Each of La Sultana’s evocatively named Riad houses retains its own identity but shares attention to outstanding craftsmanship that is a celebration of Moroccan artisan creativity. Think intricately carved cedar wood ceilings and beams, ornamental plasterwork, striking tiles and extravagant lamps – but without the pastiche or cliché of themed interiors.

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The Oberoi, Marrakech

Come and experience a place of serenity, peace, and inner tranquillity, where guests can take the time to reconnect at The Oberoi, Marrakech. Exemplifying Oberoi’s key principles of light, height, space, and water, the resort overlooks the stunning Atlas Mountains and is nestled amidst 28 hectares of citrus orchards, centuries-old olive groves, and a 120m long Grand Canal. With 84 spacious rooms, suites, and villas – each with its own private pool and garden – guests can expect to find solitude and serenity. Mind and body wellbeing is offered at The Oberoi Spa located on a private garden island.  Guests can experience an unprecedented dining adventure –  a first for Marrakech and Morocco’s culinary scene at  – at Rivayat by Michelin-star Chef Rohit Ghai. Rivayat showcases award-winning Indian cuisine in the majestic setting of the Grand Courtyard. For a more informal affair, Tamimt and Azur serve authentic Moroccan and International dishes with a beautiful pool outlook, and all three restaurants guarantee to deliver the Oberoi’s signature personalised service.

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Read our guide to the best luxury hotels in Marrakech

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Read our guide to the best luxury hotels in Marrakech

Guestrooms

Consisting of two double bedrooms with king-size beds, and three suites, accommodation has been lovingly designed to create a haven of tranquillity in the bustle of the medina, a place to relax in between adventures. With a canvas of neutral tones and clean lines, every light and airy guest room has its own individual Moroccan décor from rich gold throws and velvet cushions, to traditional robes hanging above the bed and monochrome patterned rugs.

Public Spaces

The public areas at Riad Louhou combine a harmony between indoor and outdoor spaces with inspiration taken from the Saharawi people and their culture. The central courtyard and water fountain sit at the heart of the property and provide a cool area to relax nomad-style with white outdoor chairs and tables, rugs and poufs, surrounded by pink bougainvillea and the Riad’s palm tree. The supporting columns, billowing with white curtains, frame the entrance to a large lounge furnished with hand-loomed rugs in red and burnt orange shades, chairs upholstered in traditional fabrics, dark wooden chests and a fireplace. A touch of glamour is added with velvet armchairs and large decorative mirrors.

Roof Terrace

The terrace, set against a backdrop of one of the ancient palace walls, is the perfect sun spot with loungers surrounding the rooftop pool, shaded by simple, natural straw parasols and complete with sun hats and yellow towels for a pop of colour. With walls adorned in a soft pink, the terrace offers two dining areas where white tablecloths and luxurious tableware are set up in either the shaded area with comfortable sofas and chairs with striped tasselled cushions or the dining area for a more formal experience. Dishes include traditional tagines as well as lighter bites such as Moroccan pastillas and small plates

Nightly rates at Riad Louhou start from £140 per room per night in a Double Room and from £160 per room per night in a Suite, both based on two adults sharing, including breakfast. Children under 12 may join their parents in a Suite for £30 per night. Riad Louhou is also available for private hire sleeping 12.

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Pass under the impressively ornate 12th century ‘Bab Agnaou’ royal archway, through the orange-red and salmon-pink adobe ramparts of the historic old town and one enters the magical world of the medina and its Kasbah. Riads, traditional Moroccan palatial homes with open interior courtyard patios, are fashionable accommodations for visitors. Yet why stay in a single Riad when you could stay in five?

What to Expect

Found set back from a busy street in the Kasbah is La Sultana Marrakech, an exquisitely presented property made up of five adjoining Riads, sympathetically and immaculately restored to create a unique hotel (a Small Luxury Hotels of the World Property).

The Kasbah is the historical fortified part of the old town, once the home to the Sultans of Morocco, and today one can still find the Royal Palace here. For me, this is the most authentic part of the medina, as well as being safe and clean. Here, expect to find tasty street food and some cool, arty cafes. Ten minutes walk away is the colourful and intoxicating Djemma-el-Fna square and the adjacent Berber-style souks, where you can barter for spices, jewellery, pottery and a whole lot more.

Each of La Sultana’s evocatively named Riad houses retains their own identity, but share an attention to outstanding craftsmanship that is a celebration of Moroccan artisan creativity. Think intricately carved cedar wood ceilings and beams, ornamental plasterwork, striking tiles and extravagant lamps – but without the pastiche or cliché of themed interiors.

Check-In and Welcome

Stepping out of the taxi, after the short drive from the nearby Marrakech Menara Airport, I am greeted by a uniformed doorman of La Sultana Hotel, dressed in pristine cream Moorish trousers, scarlet embroidered waistcoat and a hat bearing the hotel’s name. I am escorted through the passageway laid with elegant Moroccan carpets and bordered with North African lamps, up to the brilliantly polished brass doors. Yes, this is the Morocco of ancient dynasties and exotic splendour.

The reception area is intimate. Upon arrival, I was invited into a small drawing room in the extravagantly decorated Riad Sheherazade. No standing at reception for guests here; instead check-in is a moment to adjust to the tranquillity of the hotel, sip a warm, sweet mint tea and enjoy some complimentary Moroccan pastries.

The Room

My room was in the light-filled Riad Bahia, a part of the hotel with an open courtyard where light flooded in, illuminating the brilliant white carved stucco walls. This is the Riad with the deluxe suites and apartments. My guest suite was actually an apartment, called ‘Lion’ (the guest rooms are named after African animals and birds).

This spacious apartment (one of 28 guest rooms, of 6 different categories, including three different types of suite) featured a large salon, with a fireplace flanked by stone lions, a bathroom with marble spa bath, a separate shower room, two W.C.s, and the master bedroom which opened out onto an equally large shaded, furnished terrace.

The salon had a small minibar with complimentary soft drinks and water and a la carte snacks and alcohol. Nothing especially tempting in the mini bar and no local treats, in fact a surprisingly ordinary mini bar for such a swish hotel – but it was good to have free refreshments and water; and of course since this is a genuine 5 star establishment, there’s 24-hour room service too.

The décor was extravagant yet not over-the-top, since it was a case of ‘less is more’. Yes, there were crystal chandeliers and carved wooden furniture, but the style was cohesive and uncluttered.

There was a flat screen TV in the salon as well as the master bedroom, and also an iPod speaker with USB and Bluetooth. There was free Wi-Fi throughout the suite apartment and the hotel.

In the double wardrobes was the room safe, beach bag, beach towels and his-and-hers straw hats for sunbathing – an attention to detail that was typical of the hotel.

The turn-down service included fresh towels in the bathroom, tidying of the room, a cotton embroidered floor mat placed by the bed with Moroccan slippers, a treat of juicy stuffed dates left on the bed, and details of the breakfast options for in-suite dining.

Bathrooms are each decorated with a single fresh rose together with a few rose petals on the towels. The bathrooms were immaculately presented with engraved silver dishes and trays for the amenities. Both bathrooms were well equipped with large mirrors, illuminated vanity mirrors, hairdryer, cotton slippers, leather Moroccan slippers, cotton robes, and plenty of soaps, shampoos and even bath salts for the spa. The shower room had a double walk-in marble shower with an innovative twin shower system, whilst the other bathroom had a spa bath that really made you feel like an indulgent Sultan!

Everything was thoughtfully presented, even down to the carved metal waste paper bins and the lavender sachet bags that fragranced the W.C.S.

Welcome Amenity

Presented as a tied scroll on the bed, was a personalised welcome letter detailing the services of the hotel; whilst on the salon table was a cake stand laden with dried fruits, nuts and Moroccan cakes, together with a bottle of mineral water – a very elegant and Moroccan themed welcome.

The Rest of the Hotel

It was a real pleasure to explore the hotel. The combination of the five different Riads gives the property a very interesting ambiance of various architectural styles and moods. The main Riad Sheherazade has a rich and decadent African feel, with its verdant courtyard and stunning columns and arches. Riad Saadia brings a flavour of imperial Fez to the hotel, with plenty of cedar wood panelling, and detailed ceilings. The ochre bricks of Riad Almohade lend simplicity to one of the largest courtyards that is home to the swimming pool and a sub-tropical garden. It is here that breakfast and dinner is served in winter. Riad Sabaa is the final Riad; and above all of the houses is one expansive roof terrace, said to be one of the largest in the medina.

It offers 360 views of the medina and Atlas mountains – and the space is home to the bar (the basement bar was closed when I stayed); an al fresco restaurant for lunch (and dinner in summer) as well as a solarium with sun beds, a plunge pool and massage gazebo. There is also a cooking school, with upscale, fully equipped stations for guests that want to enjoy the programme of activities. The games room and gym are also on the terrace, housed in classic Moroccan style tented rooms.

Views from the roof terrace are postcard-perfect. Small roof domes of neighbouring riads, tall palms and exotic minaret towers stand against the Atlas Mountains in the distance. This is an extraordinary perspective on Marrakech and is all the more enjoyable when viewed from the seclusion of the hotel’s terrace. Adjacent are the 16th-century Saadian Tombs and gardens. This is the timeless Marrakesh; despite the speed of change in this fashionably chic city, the Kasbah is an authentic corner that continues to convey the spirit of this magical city.

Spa

I should say a few words about the spa. I was invited to enjoy a massage, so had the chance to check out the facilities. The aesthetic of the relaxation area, pool and circuit is calming and elegant in jade green, oxidised copper and terracotta. The treatment rooms are soundproofed and warm and I loved that fact that the massage beds were extra wide – no arms falling over the edge when relaxing!

Dinner & Breakfast

March is just the beginning of the spring season, so I had dinner inside, around the pool. There was live music, by a Berber musician with guitar. Sometimes I can find that sort of thing a little distracting, but he was talented and it was subtle, so it really didn’t dominate the ambience, just added a pleasant background mood. La Sultana has two acclaimed tasting menus, one Moroccan and the other classic French, as well as an a la carte choice of local and international dishes. I opted for the Moroccan salad selection to start, followed by a traditional lamb tagine. It was a really memorable meal – fresh, uncomplicated ingredients delivering true flavours. I also tried a Moroccan Cabernet Sauvignon, which went down rather well. Pudding was an indulgent chocolate cake, in the shape of a Tarboosh – well, it would be rude not to, wouldn’t it?!

Breakfast is a work of art. Traditional Berber dishes are the inspiration for the Moroccan morning meal, served on blue and white china – it looked so attractive and appetising. There were European and international options too, but I enjoyed the local pancakes and polenta breads with rich Atlas honey.

What made it Special?

Without a doubt, La Sultana is special as it manages to combine the intimacy and authenticity of a medina Riad mansion house with all the plush facilities and services of an upscale 5 star property. The team quickly learn guests’ names and appears to communicate in a genuinely friendly way. I found the service to be top-notch yet natural. From an informal, friendly chat with a barman, to a conversation about Moroccan wine with the head waiter, I felt welcome and comfortable – that’s true hospitality.

If you want to feel like you really are in the medina, within walking distance of the museums, palaces and gardens of this remarkable city, then a stay in a typical Riad is a must. Yet if you also want the security, service and panache of a 5-star hotel too, then La Sultana might just be the right place for you, combining the best of both worlds.

Would I Recommend It?

From the moment I arrived and was offered fresh mint tea in the courtyard, I knew I was going to enjoy the hotel. My stay was one of the most relaxing for a long time, where things just worked as they should. Yes, I would recommend this property without a doubt, if only for that 5 star view from the roof terrace.

We have included this hotel in our guide to the best luxury hotels in Marrakech

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