For the May 2018 Hideaway Report we went from magnificent Marrakech to the High Atlas Mountains to the sands of the Sahara. Three hotels stood out, but only one proved to be among the finest in the world.
Made possible by the King of Morocco’s unlimited budget and more than 1,000 master artisans, the Royal Mansour features 53 riad-style accommodations that start at 1,500 square feet. The woodburning fireplaces, striking master baths with swirling inlaid marble and roof terraces with plunge pools and relaxation tents make this property alone reason enough to visit Marrakech.
From the editor: “Checking out was a dagger to the heart.”
Read more about the Royal Mansour.
Kasbah Tamadot is a Mediterranean-Moroccan castle retreat in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, an hour south of Marrakech. It offers 18 rooms in the original building, plus 10 new Berber Tents. Most of the striking Deluxe Suites have mountain-view patios, antique woodwork, hand-painted ceilings and contemporary Moroccan art. (Children only permitted during certain weeks.)
From the editor: “I found a distinguished-looking man in a red fez, surrounded by the ingredients for mint tea. I sat on a leather pouf while the Kasbah Tamadot’s tea master prepared the perfect glass.”
Read more about Kasbah Tamadot.
This dramatically restored 14-suite mud-walled kasbah (medina) is located in Skoura, an exotic-feeling former caravan crossroads. The original building houses atmospheric Junior Suites with fireplaces; a short walk away, additional Superior Suites have private patios, smooth rammed-earth walls, fireplaces, library-like sitting rooms and impressive baths capped by window-punctured domes. No main restaurant or bar; meals are taken beside the inviting outdoor pool, on a roof terrace or in one of several candlelit kasbah chambers.
From the editor: “A member of the staff escorted us through the original dark, twisting main entrance hallway. Fragrant and candlelit, it felt wonderfully mysterious.”
Read more about Dar Ahlam.
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