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The 3 best places to stay in Marrakech and Essaouira

Among MoroccoÂ’s many seductions are a panoply of luxurious riads and resorts with lush courtyards, sensual hammans, and “the best tagine in North Africa”.  The defining variable is quality of service which, despite MoroccoÂ’s claim to warm hospitality, varies significantly. Here are three of best places to stay in Marrakesh and Essaouira that offer seamless service along with exquisite environs. LÂ’Heure Bleue Palais, Essaouira On entering the cool foyer of this Relais & Chateau property in the ancient medina guests step into an E.M. Forester novel where colonial rule imposed a mannerly calm.  LÂ’Heure Bleu retains the architectural exoticism of its former life as an 18th century merchantÂ’s palace, but in ambiance it is distinctly British Empire. L'Heure Bleu foyer In classic riad style, teak-shuttered, meticulously styled rooms surround the courtyard with exceptionally tall palms. Most impressive are the suites which have a fireplace, marble and teak bathroom and sepia-toned, circa 1930s photographs. The first floor library is richly paneled and its creased leather couches are reminiscent of a gentlemanÂ’s club (think: Winston Churchill negotiating the Suez Canal).  Just below, on a dimly lit subterranean level, a black marble hammam offers a cleanse that is gentler than the classically rigorous Moroccan spa.  Catch the rooftop pool before its dusk-closing and you can view the whitewashed port with its jumble of fishing boats painted the startling “Majorelle bleu”. L'Heure Bleu premium suite Even if you donÂ’t stay overnight at LÂ’Heure Bleu, you will want to have a civilized tea and  handmade pastries in the courtyard and later, a multi course dinner prepared by Chef Ahmed which is a destination in itself. Mosaic Palais Aziza, Marrakech Set outside the city in an exclusive enclave that is home to Saudi kings and dignitaries, Mosaic Palais Azizza Resort takes to heart BaudelaireÂ’s L’Invitation au Voyage where all is “Luxe, calme et volupté”.  A sanctuary of exotic gardens and impeccable accommodations that offers guests a flûte of Champagne on arrival and a “pillow menu”, Mosaic Palais sustains a refined hospitality throughout your stay. Mosaic Palace Junior Suite Rooms that face the pool are densely quiet and subtle in décor; each has a private patio with white cotton sofas shaded by archways and palms. Six standalone “pavilions” are themed with the signature the colors of MoroccoÂ’s cites (white for Casablanca, red for Marrakesh…). For a romantic interlude, a “villa” with private garden is discreetly set apart. Mosaic Palace pool At the Swiss-pristine Hammam and Spa, the steamy cleanse is authentically rigorous, followed by a four-hand massage, an ideal prelude to an evening aperitif at La Pergola, the lantern-lit poolside bar. Walk a few paces to the Maroliano Restaurant where Chef Daniele Turco fuses Moroccan and Italian cuisine which draws on the fruits of MosaicÂ’s gardens and vineyard: namely, the best olive oil to be found outside Italy and a garnet red Merlot. Riad Kheirredine, Marrakech Only minutes from the bustling Jemaâ El Fna Square, but so deep within the cityÂ’s labyrinths of ancient alleys, Riad Kheirredine sends a guide to bring guests to its door. With rooms named Fleur dÂ’oranger, Ambre, and Jasmine  you would expect classic Moroccan style. The surprise lies behind the heavy wooden door: a mélange of textiles and textures which brings to mind a farmhouse in Tuscany appointed with the more sophisticated of North African decor. Riad Kheirredine Ambre room A narrow, winding stone stairwell leads to magnificently appointed rooms, one at each staggered landing, seven rooms in all.  The walls are the stucco-seeming Tadelkt, the fabrics are sumptuously Italian.  Berber rugs warm stone floors, throws are cashmere and bed sheets feel like silken sheaths. Bathrooms are tiled in class Zillij mosaic. Still, looking down at the inner courtyard you might easily expect to see a garden pergola. Riad Kheirredine terrace The gazebo-like terrace with its canopied white couches and soft draping must be one of the most romantic spots to view the ancient city in the amber glow of evening.

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10 Comments

  1. Breathtaking!!!. Luxury at it’s most impressive level. Not to see what exists at least once in a lifetime is a serious deprivation.
    A real incentive to live long enough to visit and experience what heaven must look like.

  2. I visited Marrakech as a child. None of these luxurious hotels existed. I plan to go back.
    My problem: which one of these hotels would I choose? They are all inviting. So the solution would be to spend a couple of nights in each

  3. Wow! Gorgeous properties! I’m planning a trip to Morocco later this year; one of these hotels is gonna make the cut. Can’t wait!

  4. I am familiar with these three destinations and attest to the accuracy of the reviews. Amazing service, amenities, cuisine, hospitality. Writer definitely knows how to convey a sense of place that evokes my desire to return and then return again.

  5. Thank you for this wonderful ” snap shot” of Morocco . Every year we choose a different exotic location to explore. Morocco has always been at the top of my list- this review just inspired my husband to book our next destination! Morocco in 2014!!!

  6. These photos have inspired me to at last book my ticket to Morocco. I am going to explore this place of wonder, thanks for the encouragement.

  7. Trying to figure out a destination for an important birthday next year. Was thinking of Italy but with this article, it certainly is putting Morocco in the running. I have never been and reading these descriptions, allays my concerns over having a 4 star experience.

  8. This looks absolutely amazing and I would gladly travel anywhere Judith Reitman recommends. Will get there one day for sure.

  9. Unfortunately I am unable to travel at this time.however when I can these places will be at the top of my list. Wonderful descriptions. It makes my mouth water.

  10. Morocco just jumped to the top of my travel destinations. I had no idea. Thanks for the suggestions.

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