Africa’s hidden gem, Morocco, awaits, with more luxury than you can imagine, at the magnificent Royal Mansour Marrakech. Baroque Travel investigates
Renowned for its unparalleled level of excellence, this exquisite five star establishment combines Moroccan with a level of luxury that is unsurpassed. With its exquisite Moorish architecture, gourmet dining opportunities and a level of luxury unseen before in this part of Africa, the Royal Mansour Marrakech beckons visitors to visit and experience the ultimate vacation.
From the moment you enter the exquisite main reception building, you’ll be blown away. There’s a fabulous spacious lobby, a bar, an assortment of luxe lounges, not to mention three excellent restaurants and a stunning library. Craftsmen have created a masterpiece, evident in the lace embedded plaster, carved ceilings, floors and walls. To add a special touch of luxury, there’s an intricate series of underground tunnels that join the main building with each of the 53 riads, so that staff can discreetly pander to their guests’ whims in the utmost privacy.
Commissioned by Marrakech’s King Mohammed VI, this hotel leads the way when it comes to the gold standard. Located on the eastern edge of Marrakech in the historic part of the city and close to the Ville Nouvelle (New Town), the hotel is a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle yet close enough to be there in five minutes by taxi. Each of the 53 two-story riads or villas offer the utmost privacy, with a network of underground passages available for staff to get to and from. There are lush and luxurious suede and silk carpets, velvet brocade couches and exquisite chandeliers from the houses of Lalique, Baccarat and other Venetian designers.
At the Royal Mansour Marrakech, service is unpretentious and unrivalled. Guests have a choice of staying in the privacy of their one, two or three-bedroomed riads for the entire trip or taking advantage of the many facilities on offer, which include an outdoor pool, three restaurants (French, Moroccan and ‘informal’), an art gallery, library, and what is known as the best spa and hammam in Marrakech. Of course staying in your individual riad is an experience in itself; in your exclusive retreat, the bedrooms are lavishly decorated, there’s a dining room for private meals, an open fireplace in the salon, and a staff of 10 to look after you.
Dining at the hotel is of the highest standard, and aside from the restaurants, guests can also visit the tea lounge, a choice of two bars and a fumoir (smoking room), a great spot for a Montecristo cigar and some Cognac.