Short stay: Palais Namaskar, Marrakech, Morocco

You may have already read the post ‘3 unique yet luxurious experiences in Marrakech‘ which details a handful of the opportunites that came about as a result of attending PURE Life Experiences, a great event that caters specifically for many of the smaller operators within the luxury travel industry. During my time at the conference, I stayed at the elegant Palais Namaskar, part of the Oetker Collection, on the outskits of the city and here is a summary from that stay. (The Oetker Collection includes a number of iconic hotels and resorts, including the likes of Le Bristol in Paris, Fregate Island Private in the Seychelles and, as announced for the first time at PURE, is adding The Lanesborough in London to its portfolio.) The welcome I arrived at Palais Namaskar quite late in the evening and checked in. I was shown to my room which involved a longish walk down a magically-lit path illuminated by hundreds of candles. It was only the next morning that I could fully get my bearings and appreciate the Moorish architecture and the route that I’d been led along in going to my room. The room I stayed in one of the hotels’ two palaces – the Mountain Palace – with beautiful views (I discovered the next morning) from my own balcony over the gardens and out towards the Atlas Mountains in the far distance. The room had the most comfortable bed and a desk from which I could work when not attending events. Free WiFi was included, and reliable. The rooms within the palace shared an outdoor heated pool. I barely saw any other guests in this part of the complex – there are just three rooms and 460 sq m of interior living space – so it felt like I had this all to myself. The bathroom The bathroom was spacious with twin basins, a large, glass-encased walk-in shower and beautiful oval bath. Luxurious ila organic toiletries were provided, as were gowns, etc. The facilities The hotel is set in gorgeous landscaped grounds that are meticulously maintained. Had I found the time in my schedule, I could have very happily whiled away a few hours just relaxing in the gardens. I did find a moment to visit the gym, housed in a domed building and with a personal trainer on hand should you need any assistance or advice. There is also of course a spa which I didn’t get to use, but among the available treatments is the signature Namaskar Massage – a one-hour personalised massage with your choice of rose, lavender or orange blossom essential oil. I had breakfast at the hotel each morning, usually opting for a plate of fruit followed by poached eggs (cooked to perfection!), accompanied by small pots of sausages, potatoes and bacon. The hotel also does some rather good canapes (pictured) which I got to sample during a meeting with the GM, but I unfortunately never got around to trying the restaurants on this visit. There’s a choice of three – Le Namaskar (French and Moroccan cuisine), Le Sawadee (Thai dishes) and La Table (for light lunches by the pool). I did make it to a party at the bar on my first night – a great opportunity to meet with interesting people from all over the world, working in the luxury travel industry. Cost Rooms at Palais Namaskar start from 480 euros per night. The whole of the Mountain Palace is available from 5,600 euros per night. Rates include VAT but exclude city tax. The best bit The tranquillity. You don’t expect to go to Marrakech to find peace and solitude, but Palais Namaskar offers just that. A number of celebrities have stayed here, and you can see how it’s a great getaway for them if they’re seeking privacy. The final verdict A truly beautiful hotel and calming oasis away from the chaos of the Medina.  If you’re wanting to be in the heart of Marrakech, this is not the hotel for you. If on the other hand, you want to get away from it all, enjoy some peace and quiet and yet still be able to visit the hustle and bustle of the city from time to time, then this could be just what you’re looking for.