marrakech guide
Splendid’s travel editor shares an insider's guide to the magical city of Marrakech, revealing her go-to stylish hotels and secluded riads to the ultimate destinations for food and rich culture.
Where to stay
El Fenn
Truly stands out for its impeccable design-forward approach, blending luxury seamlessly. Since its inception in 2004 by Vanessa Branson, the hotel has undergone continuous expansion, evolving into one of the most vibrant retreats in the heart of the medina. Despite attracting a jet-set crowd, particularly from the art and fashion worlds, El Fenn exudes a relaxed bohemian charm that prioritizes comfort over ostentation.
Stepping into the visually captivating interiors of El Fenn, the riotous burst of colors creates a surprisingly calming ambiance. Each uniquely designed room is a treasure trove of captivating details, such as a luxurious roll-top copper bathtub, intricately hand-stitched camel leather floors, an alfresco shower, and a cozy fireplace for chilly desert evenings. Being immersed in the bustling surroundings, guests may find it tempting to stay within the confines of El Fenn's scenic bougainvillea-filled courtyards, which house three inviting pools, a rejuvenating spa, a tranquil yoga deck, and various cozy corners ideal for quiet reading escapades. Additionally, the on-site boutique boasts a curated collection of exquisite glassware and artisanal slippers from talented local craftsmen.
Culinary delights at El Fenn are equally impressive, with a lunch menu featuring an array of five fresh seasonal Moroccan salads. Evening dining experiences are elevated with dishes like feather-light ravioli infused with mushrooms sourced from the Atlas mountains and perfectly grilled local fish seasoned with aromatic spices. The dining experience is further enhanced by a selection of expertly crafted cocktails from the elegant marble bar. Picture the enchanting scene atop the rooftop, nestled on colorful banquettes, savoring the exquisite flavors while enveloped by the gentle notes of the call to prayer and the mesmerizing lights of the cityscape—a true moment of pure Moroccan enchantment.
Amanjena
Arriving at Amanjena is truly an unforgettable experience from the moment you step off the private transfer, whisked away from the dusty city outskirts, to being enveloped by the monumental gates welcoming you to this enchanting retreat. And the warm greeting of a hot towel and traditional Moroccan tea is just the beginning of the hospitality you are about to encounter. What truly sets the stage for this luxurious oasis is the breathtaking grand courtyard, initially glimpsed through the rose-pink Moorish arch, where its centerpiece is an expansive pond illuminated by flickering torches as dusk falls. The serene backdrop of storks gracefully roaming the palm frond-lined corners, accompanied by the sweet melodies of chirping songbirds, truly makes one feel like they have discovered a slice of earthly paradise within Amanjena’s walls.
Boasting a selection of 34 intimate "pavilions" and "maisons," each more than just a room or suite but a private sanctuary in itself, complete with a personal pool and a cozy colonnaded area featuring a fireplace perfect for unwinding in the evenings. The interiors are a delightful blend of Berber rugs and elegant Venetian-style domes, setting the stage for a relaxing soak in the luxurious green marble bathtub. When it comes to dining, Amanjena excels with wood-fired pizzas overlooking the lush green hills of the neighboring golf course during lunch, while evenings can be spent enjoying candlelit dinners in a traditional Moroccan setting with soothing live music or indulging in exquisite fresh sushi at Nama, including delicacies like smoky tuna tataki and succulent yellowtail usuzukuri flown in daily from Essaouira.
Riad Sakkan
During our two-week adventure, we had the pleasure of exploring numerous riads. However, out of all the stunning accommodations we encountered, this particular riad stood out as the epitome of Instagram-worthy beauty.
MUST DO ACTIVITY
Jardin Majorelle Gardens and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum,
Fashion lovers cannot afford to miss this incredible experience. The gardens' exquisite grounds are a sight to behold. Remember, it is essential to purchase your tickets online in advance.
DAY TRIP IDEA
Chefchaouen - Visit The Blue City
Step into a realm of enchantment that resembles a page out of a fairy tale. However, navigating through this captivating place can be quite perplexing. To fully immerse yourself in its magic, I recommend relying on Google Maps or seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable local guide. They will ensure you make the most of your journey in this mystical destination.
Where to dine
Try The Local Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is not only incredibly tasty but also incredibly nourishing. Moreover, for all the vegetarians out there, the dishes showcased in the picture are completely plant-based, making it a dream come true for those who prefer a meat-free diet, here is a list of our tried-and-tested favourites:
Breakfast to dinner this restaurant offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern hidden deep inside the medina.
Open everyday from lunch to late you will find Mediterranean and international specialties. The atmosphere is rather trendy in the evening with music and DJ.
Amanjena has a breath-taking courtyard restaurant open in the evenings, that celebrates the diversity of Moroccan cuisine, blending Berber, Andalusian and Mediterranean influences.
Open for lunch and dinner, shaded by orange trees, this poolside restaurant is a fine dining dream, and a true oasis outside of the medina.
Marrakech is a lively desert haven that presents a diverse array of experiences and culture opportunities, making it one of the most extraordinary destinations in the world. We trust you found our Marrakech guide helpful and that our suggestions will enhance your time in this beautiful place!