Imagined as a medina (a “traditional town” in modern Arabic), the Royal Mansour Marrakech is a lively example of ancestral know-how and local architecture combined with modern comfort. The result is a unique experience, where enchantment and emotions create indelible memories.

SPECTACULAR 3.5-HECTARE ESTATE

When it was built, the owners of this one-of-a-kind palace wanted to bring tradition to the forefront by using Moroccan artisanal know-how and decorative art. As soon as you cross the threshold their vision becomes obvious: the massive entry, a mixture of cedar, engraved metals and sculptured plaster, is a true masterpiece of traditional art and evokes the majestic gates of an imperial city. They are engraved with the motto “Happiness, riches and prosperity” – and for good reason.

Behind the portal hides a true small village with winding alleyways and a succession of gardens, pools and fountains, enhanced with centuries-old trees and trellises of fragrant flowers. Safe behind its ramparts, the Medina is open to all who are privileged to stay there.

THE MEDINA AND ITS GARDENS

The hotel consists of 53 riads with one to four bedrooms, laid out around a central courtyard with a living room, bar, vestibule and outdoor patio on the ground floor. The largest also have a dining room. All have a private rooftop terrace with a plunge pool, the ideal spot to cool off in very hot weather. Some even have a private hammam. Each room is decorated in the purest Moroccan tradition, pushing the virtuosity of local craftspeople to the very limits. The zelligetiles outline geometrical shapes with exquisite colour harmonies, and go marvellously with the sculptured wood, lacy plaster and engraved copper. Guests are reminded of the décor in the reception areas.

The riads gracefully combine tradition and high-tech modernity. For example, the roofs have rain sensors that close them at the first drop, and each room has a touch control panel, synonymous with absolute comfort.

OUTSTANDING SERVICE

The art of living at the Royal Mansour Marrakech is pushed to a degree of refinement that goes far beyond any of the traditional codes of hoteliers. Guests are immediately so attached to their private riad that they want to spend much of their stay there. The butler watches like a guardian angel over the comfort of the guest in his charge and leans on his behind-the-scenes colleagues to provide matchless service. A brilliantly designed series of underground tunnels gives staff quick and discrete access to each riad so that they can ensure their guests’ comfort while respecting their privacy.

THE SPA

The Royal Mansour has 2,500 m2 of space, over three levels, dedicated to relaxation and wellness. This veritable paradise of the senses is mainly devoted to the baths, faithful to Moroccan tradition, and has only one goal: to calm soul and spirit.

The ground floor has two hammams, a hair salon, private areas for manicures and pedicures, a Watsu pool, space to relax, a boutique and a tearoom. The second floor, bathed in natural light, is reserved for massages, facials, hydrotherapy and wraps. Private suites provide privacy for those who wish it. All clients meet with specialists who design a bespoke program for them (advice on nutrition, physical activity, managing stress and wellness) that meets their individual needs.

RESTAURANTS

The hotel offers three dining environments, each more delicious than the others. La Grande Table Marocaine serves excellent traditional Moroccan cuisine of the highest level. On the menu: sh’hiwates, shoulder of lamb, sea bream tangia with purple olives… With its hearty respect for product quality and its sophisticated savoir-faire, this restaurant has quickly become one of the country’s signature gourmet dining spots.

La Grande Table Française, directed by famed chef Yannick Alléno, presents French cuisine with a Moroccan accent in an enchanting setting: whether you lunch or dine on the patio, among hundred-year-old olive trees, or inside, the experience will be divine.

Finally, La Table, which is open all day, offers exceptional products simply prepared. No matter what the time of day, guests can also be served in their riad, whether a meal for one, a family dinner or a feast among friends.

www.royalmansour.com