Luxury in Morocco

Marrakech, Morocco’s best-known city, has a life of its own. With its frenetic energy, the city is a constant hive of activity through a maze of bustling streets and lively squares. The famous Djemma el Fna square in the heart of Marrakech really comes to life as dusk falls, with musicians, dancers, acrobats and snake charmers all adding to the unique atmosphere. Escape to the labyrinth which forms the souks of the old medina and barter with the competitive locals for colourful carpets and fragrant spices, or simply relax in the welcome shade of the palm trees.

My visit brought me to 4 very special unique hotels, each had their own unique personality and created a stir amongst its visitors. I will be breaking these down into two blogs.

After arriving into Marrakech, our first stop for Lunch was La Sultana.

La Sultana Marrakech 5 Stars Overlooking the Saadian Tombs, this is an opulent and authentic boutique hotel. Combining the tradition and history of five riads, this member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World provides some of the highest standards of accommodation and service in Morocco. Converted from homes, this stunning hotel embodies the tradition and style of authentic Marrakech.

Talented chefs create a refined medley of international flavours in the restaurant, served in dining rooms around the pool or al fresco on the spacious roof terraces overlooking the city and the Atlas Mountains. An outdoor heated pool with jet stream fringed by terraces creates cool oases of relaxation. Panoramic rooftop garden terraces with shady corners, a bar, caidal tent and water misted solarium offer breath-taking vistas of Koutoubia Mosque and the Saadian Tombs.

Each of the hotel’s elegant rooms and suites has a unique décor that perfectly reflects the intimate riad feel. Adorned with sculpted ceilings, unique pieces of antique furnishings and artwork, you can expect contemporary facilities such as a free minibar, iPod docks and free Wi-Fi throughout. Deluxe Prestige Rooms are simple, spacious and chic; for extra space, choose a Junior Suite, or a Suite which features a balcony.

We then drove, approximately 3 hours along winding roads into the heart of the Atlas Mountains is nesting a most subtle pearl, Widiane Suites & Spa. A concentrate of essence and wellbeing to enrich your senses as you take in open views, fresh air and contrasting landscapes.

Widiane Suites & Spa 5 Star Associating luxury and refinement, this masterpiece is the ideal retreat for nature lovers, where the time ceases to let you enjoy the celestial and charming site. A personal must is the speedboat to the restaurant called 'Thai'. You can even book a massage in their rather quirky huts with a view whilst you're waiting for your lunch, or perhaps you'd like to take a moment of tranquillity in the glass room which opens up to the most amazing view as a Yoga spot! I stayed here for two magical nights. The hotel is located on a lake. This family-friendly hotel is only 2.3 miles from Bine El Ouidane Dam, which is so impressive. I recommend seeing the Dam by air.

This hotel features 2 restaurants, a marina and 2 outdoor pools. I tried my first Hammam here in their full-service spa, this was very hyped up, I know why. My skin after felt amazing. This is turning into a weekly routine, if you haven't had one before, make sure your first is in Morocco. I of course can’t not mention the infinity pool here and the surrounding views. I felt relaxed within minutes of arriving.

Hotel has 31 rooms, all feature thoughtful touches such as bathrobes and slippers. I was blown away at the size of my room and balcony. This is bigger than my flat back home, as tempting as it was to stay, I was off on my next stop.