This fabulous country offers a superb year-round climate but, as Autumn approaches here in the UK, the warm weather in Morocco beckons even more strongly. As such, it was with a real sense of anticipation and excitement that I packed my suitcase for a week’s exploration. My mission? To explore some of the world class hotels that are found across Morocco.
After arriving at Marrakech Menara airport (just a 3 hour flight from London) and working my way through to Arrivals I was greeted by my driver who was waiting to take me to my first resort. We set off in a smart Landcruiser down busy roads before exiting the city to the south, on a 1 hour drive to Kasbah Tamadot.
Kasbah Tamadot, Atlas Mountains
Purchased by Richard Branson during one of his famous ballooning expeditions, the award-winning Kasbah Tamadot (tamadot means soft breeze in Berber) nestles in the beautiful Atlas Mountains.
Kasbah Tamadot cleverly balances luxury and impeccable service, without being too formal. The resort is located near the small village of Asni and it has always worked hard to integrate itself into the local environment, employing many locals.
Exclusivity is the watchword at Kasbah Tamadot with just 18 rooms and 9 Berber Tents. The 10 superior and deluxe rooms are beautifully decorated and come with plush robes, minibar, toiletries and even traditional Moroccan sunhats! Alternatively, a night or two in one of the Berber Tents is an experience in its own right. Each features a king size bed, large bathtub, terrace and sun loungers (perfect for stargazing too!).
A must is a visit to the 5-star spa for a Moroccan Hammam – I didn’t realise it was possible to feel as clean and scrubbed as you do after a Hammam! A swim in the infinity pool overlooking the mountains is a great way to relax. You can also try quad biking or, in true Branson style, hot air ballooning. A favourite event is the weekly outdoor cinema night… exactly as it sounds, the resort staff setup a big screen in the gardens, arrange massive beanbags and chairs on rugs. Settling back, I was bought popcorn and a beautifully crisp glass of white wine to enjoy.
If you are looking for relaxation, superb service and incredible views then look no further. My stay at Kasbah Tamadot was simply superb!
As a happy coincidence, Kasbah Tamadot have just announced an exclusive offer for new bookings – stay at least 3 nights and your final night is free. This offer is valid for stays between 1st November and 21st December 2017. More details on request.
Find out more about Kasbah Tamadot here.
Palais Namaskar, Marrakesh, Morocco
Hopping in the car we headed back towards Marrakech to Palais Namasker which sits 35 minutes to the east of the city. Since opening in 2012, this luxury resort has been recognised with several prestigious awards, the latest being ‘Best Hotel in Africa’ by Prix Villegiature and 'Best Luxury Fitness Spa' in Africa by the World Luxury Spa Awards 2015.
41 rooms, suites, villas and 'palaces' greeted me, all set within an oasis of calm and tranquillity. With ample living space set within walled gardens and courtyards, privacy is guaranteed. Choose from two stunning restaurants, Le Namaskar or La Table. Le Namaskar is a fine dining restaurant offering French cuisine infused with Moroccan influences, like wild seabass tajine with chermoula spices (in a word… superb!). La Table is open for lunch by the pool, serving crisp garden salads and artisan tarts. For a more intimate dinner, dine by candlelight by the lake or on a private terrace.
Holistic wellness is taken seriously and the facilities reflect this with the fitness centre and spa forming an integral part of the resort. After a calming but energising yoga session, I was ready to enjoy an exquisite selection of spa treatments and massages. In-room spa services are also available.
Find out more about Palais Namaskar here.
Next on my whirlwind tour was a trip to Amanjena. In typically refined Aman style, the Amanjena is a smart, sophisticated resort. 39 rooms and suites offer guests superb levels of luxury and all just a short 15 minutes from the middle of Marrakesh.
Date palms and olive trees dot the grounds creating a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Choose between a Pavilion or Maison, both reflect Moroccan tradition. Pavilions typically feature heated swimming pools, private gardens, personal bars and fireplaces, whilst Maison’s feature wall fountains, courtyards and multi-level sleeping accommodation. Dining at Amanjena is an experience in its own right. Enjoy the freshest seafood prepared to your tastes at the Japanese Restaurant, or for more traditional dishes head to the signature Amanjena Restaurant.
For the keen golfer, Amanjena might just be the perfect destination. Set alongside the resort are the fairways of one of Morocco’s best Golf Clubs, Amelkis. The 18 hole Al Maaden course is joined by the 27 hole Marrakech Royal Golf Club which is set in gardens dating back to the 1930’s.
Find out more about Amanjena here.
Four Seasons, Marrakesh, Morocco
The final stop on my whirlwind tour was the Four Seasons. Set in a 40 acre Moorish garden sanctuary, the Four Seasons Resort sits between the city’s fabled ancient medina and the cosmopolitan neighbourhoods of the Ville Nouvelle. So you can experience the legendary hustle and bustle of Marrakech and escape to a peaceful haven afterwards.
A wide range of accommodation options are available, including rooms with terraces and gardens or suites with pools. All rooms and suites have their own unique touches. Whether you would like a room with a view across to the Atlas Mountains, or the services of a private Butler
The hotel runs a complimentary transfer service throughout the day and can arrange guided tours. Armed with a map and a pocket full of Dirham, my first port of call was the legendary souks, right in the heart of Marrakesh.
Mindful of my meagre 20kg baggage limit I soon found a few unique souvenirs to take home. Top tip – it’s ok to bargain! Done with a smile you’ll be surprised at the discount you can get. Shopped out, I just had time to walk to the ancient El Badii Palace which is just a few minutes from the centre. Built in the 1500’s the substantial ruins of this royal residence was fascinating to explore and further highlighted the incredible history of the country.
Find out more about Four Seasons, Marrakesh here.
Morocco is without doubt a magical country that is home to a brand of exotic glamour found nowhere else. If you would like to experience the best that Morocco has to offer then please call us on +44 1993 899 430 or email inspire@oxfordprivatetravel.com.