An Afternoon of Ritual and Rooftop Bliss at El Fenn, Marrakech
The treatment began with a traditional hammam, something I’d been both curious and a little nervous about. I was given a tiny paper thong—more symbolic than practical—and led into a dark, beautifully tiled steam chamber that felt like a hidden underground sanctuary. The air was warm and thick with steam, and every surface shimmered slightly in the low light.
What happens in a Hammam?
A kind, soft-spoken attendant began by gently dousing me in warm water using a small bowl. There was something ritualistic and nurturing about it—each motion deliberate, slow, and tender. She then applied rich, velvety black soap to every inch of my body, its scent earthy and calming. I lay there, cocooned in the warm air, letting the scent and steam melt my thoughts away.
After a few minutes of blissful stillness, the soap was gently washed off with bowlfuls of hot water. Next came a verbena clay mask, smoothed over my skin and left to sink in. Finally, the exfoliation began—firm, yes, but still incredibly soothing. With a mitt, she sloughed away every trace of old, tired skin, rinsing me off with more steaming bowls of water. The final touch was an application of orange blossom oil—its scent delicate, floral, and grounding. I emerged from the hammam 45 minutes later, wrapped in a soft robe, feeling newborn – yes, really!
A Re-energising Massage
I was then guided to another serene room for a full-body massage, where every knot and kink was coaxed away. Afterward, I was offered a warm herbal tea—simple, fragrant, and perfectly timed.
Time for me
Floating out of the spa and back into the sun, I made my way up to El Fenn’s rooftop bar and restaurant. Let me just say: wow. The design strikes that elusive balance between luxe and laid-back, paying homage to Moroccan aesthetics while feeling thoroughly modern. Rich red fabrics, jewel-toned cushions, a plunge pool, and a larger swimming pool create a dreamy tableau, framed by sunbeds and shaded seating areas.
I sipped on a pineapple mojito mocktail that was bursting with freshness and just the right amount of zing. Later, at the rooftop restaurant, we ordered a selection of Moroccan salads—each one vibrant and flavourful. The service wasn’t exactly warm; the staff seemed distant and not overly attentive. Maybe it’s just the vibe, but it was a contrast to the heartfelt care I received in the spa.
Despite that, El Fenn is undoubtedly one of the most stylish spots in the medina. Whether you go for the spa, the design, the rooftop views—or ideally, all three—you’ll leave feeling restored, inspired, and just a little more in love with Marrakech.
