An exploration through its lush lodgings.
Marrakech is the perfect first step on your exploration of the African continent. A heady mix of Arabic, French and African influences, this city is a sensory delight. As intricate as the colorful rugs found in the souk, its rich history and culture are woven into a modern tapestry.
AnaYela Riad: based on a magical love story
My journey into the heart of Marrakech begins with the exquisite AnaYela Riad. Hidden in the warrens of the historic medina, this retreat captures the essence of Moroccan hospitality. AnaYela, meaning “I am Yela” in Arabic, recounts the legend of a young girl whose love letter was found behind a wall in the riad. The architecture reflects the city’s rich history, featuring intricate tilework, hand-carved wooden doors, and a central courtyard highlighted by a captivating reflecting pool. The five uniquely designed rooms are a tribute to Moroccan craftsmanship, showcasing local artistry.
The owner, Andrea Bury, has created the Abury foundation, committed to supporting education and social development by selling ethically produced, hand-crafted accessories. Here you can escape the hubbub of the market for an intimate and serene ambiance, feeling cared for a like a member of the family.
Nobu Hotel Marrakech: a fusion of culinary excellence and luxury living
A change of pace, the one-year-old Nobu Hotel Marrakech is dressed to impress. Situated in the trendy Hivernage district, the hotel embodies a seamless fusion of Japanese minimalism and Moroccan elegance. With moody low lighting in the public areas, the rooms are exquisitely decorated and flooded with natural light. Of course, a Nobu experience must include indulging in a meal at the signature restaurant. The tasting omakase dinner was a true delight, with surprise after surprise prepared at the counter before your eyes.
The spa experience includes a traditional hammam scrub leaving your skin like velvet and a luxurious Argan oil massage to relax body and soul. The rooftop buzzes all day with a ring shaped pool, bamboo hanging swing chairs and plush sofas to enjoy the view while dining. At night, the beats are turned up and a party vibe prevails. A lovely touch at breakfast is the Moroccan musician strumming traditional tunes.
La Villa des Orangers: a tranquil haven in the heart of the medina
A walk through the doors of La Villa des Orangers transports you into a world of privacy, yet still within the bustling medina. The villa is a testament to Marrakech’s allure, with its verdant gardens, fragrant orange trees, and rooftop terrace overlooking the city’s historic landmarks. The romantic restaurant is a place to linger over local specialities prepared to perfection. Individually decorated rooms and suites exude a sense of timeless luxury, with traditional Moroccan textiles and contemporary comforts. A whimsical touch is the fez that you hang on a hook outside your door as a “do not disturb” notice.
Their hammam is a bubbly joy and the relaxing massage sent me straight off to dreamland. There are dozens of private corners to retreat to, whether the little gated areas on the rooftop, to the outdoor dining areas, to the many lounges and sitting rooms where you can get lost in conversation or a good book. La Villa des Orangers is the ideal place for private contemplation.
La Mamounia: a timeless icon of grandeur and glamour
No exploration of Marrakech’s luxurious accommodations is complete without a visit to the legendary La Mamounia. This iconic hotel, nestled within the city’s ancient walls, is a destination in itself. Surrounded by eight hectares of lush gardens, La Mamounia is a beacon for Moroccan artistry and a step into history. To commemorate their centenary, Mamounia’s public spaces were revamped by Patrik Jouin and Sanjit Manku. The highlight is the dramatic low hanging pearl chandelier adorned with 650 silver charms, corresponding with and protecting the same number of employees here.
Four restaurants highlight Moroccan, Italian, Asian and Mediterranean specialties. There are four bars: don’t miss the intimate Churchill bar and the hidden cinema behind the door. A full spa, indoor and outdoor pools, two tea rooms, boutiques, hair salon and barber, sports room, games room, underground wine cellar… and the famed gardens. The rooms are an absolute work of art, with hand-carved archways, sweeping views, and signature scent based on cedar and dates created by Olivia Giacobetti.
The people
Meryanne Loum-Martin knows everyone who matters in Marrakech. Originally from the Ivory Coast, she moved from Paris over 30 years ago and abandoned her law career to build the Jnane Tamsna as a hotel. Her knack for creating connections for her guests have brought people from all walks of life to create a stimulating cultural exchange.
Through her, I met Paolo Gallone, who, with his wife Marlene, have gathered 3000 pieces from a collection of 7000 ornaments, jewels, garments and textiles for the MAP – Monde des Arts de la Parure museum in the heart of the city. Pierre Collet, the director, says their aim is not to possess but to pass on, sharing a piece of universal heritage with as many people as possible. Another meaningful contact was Nawal El Hriti, owner of a caftan shop called Aya’s in the Jewish quarter of the medina. Here you can take part in a course to sew buttons made of thread or have a caftan made to order, like the late singer Prince or Queen Camilla did. Nawal has a big heart: she promotes fair trade through the IBU movement supporting women artisans around the world.
The magic is…
So, for me, the magic of Morocco is in the astounding sense of hospitality that is in their DNA, and the people, whether born here or not, who have become an integral part of the city’s fabric.
Sharla Ault – Creator of Sharlafied.com
