The Royal Mansour, Marrakech
Marrakech has always attracted dreamers and renegades. It’s a place where spirituality, community, lovers of culture and adventure come together in harmony - with guaranteed good weather. The Royal Mansour stands as the epitome of opulence among Marrakech's prestigious hotels, exuding a blend of impeccable service and unparalleled amenities. Conceived under the visionary design of King Mohammed VI, it materialized as a 'medina within a medina,' where 53 exclusive riads are ensconced within a sprawling expanse of five hectares surrounded by gardens. The entire establishment is synonymous with the notion of "no expense spared", and is truly the lap of luxury.
The property's distinction is unparalleled, a fact that becomes evident when delving into its history of ownership: the Royal Mansour was commissioned by the King of Morocco himself to stand as a showcase for the country's finest offerings. He engaged the talents of approximately 1,500 artisans to adorn its interiors, and virtually every decorative element on display was meticulously crafted by hand, showcasing their consummate precision and hard-earned expertise. Beneath your feet, the floors are adorned with an intricate array of geometric zellij tiles; towering handmade wooden cabinets punctuate the lobby; and the spa is embraced by gracefully curved patterns of white metal that enclose its reception area like an ornate birdcage.
The Riads
The property boasts 53 riads, each with its own private pool, all nestled within the protective embrace of the imperial city walls. Together, they form a serene mini Medina, exuding an air of tranquility that knows no bounds. The lush grounds are adorned by the majestic Atlas Mountains, while five hectares of exquisitely fragrant gardens, with hints of jasmine, orange blossom, and lavender at every turn, create an enchanting ambiance. An impressive swimming pool, fringed by swaying palm trees, adds to the allure of this haven. It is essential to bear in mind the precise route to your riad, as the winding pink roads around the resort can easily lead one astray.
The assemblage of 53 riads, each boasting one, two, and three bedrooms, radiates opulence and showcases exquisite craftsmanship, precisely as one would anticipate. As you step inside the riad, you'll be welcomed by a delightful outdoor courtyard, which seamlessly transitions into the ground-floor lounge, featuring a fully operational fireplace and an elegant dining room. As you make your way up to the first floor, you'll discover the exquisitely embellished bedroom(s), where the breathtaking stucco work, meticulously engraved cedar wood, and sumptuous marble bathrooms, generously stocked with Maroc Maroc toiletries, await your indulgence.
However, the real highlight awaits above on the rooftop terrace on the third floor. Here, you can relax on comfortable loungers, enjoy the warmth of yet another fireplace, and indulge in a moment of seclusion in the intimate private plunge pool. It's worth noting that while the riads are undeniably charming, some guests may find certain aspects concerning. Only some of the properties offer elevators to accommodate guests with mobility impairments, meaning that most visitors will have to be prepared for a fair amount of stair-climbing. On the positive side, this extra physical activity may come in handy, considering the hearty nature of Moroccan cuisine, which encourages a bit more movement.
Dining
It’s a flex when The Royal Mansour becomes the first North African outpost for world-renowned chef Helene Darroze. Taking the reigns from Yannick Alleno as the property’s previous Culinary Director, the move marks the renowned French chef's inaugural venture beyond European borders. Her role at Royal Mansour encompasses the supervision of two esteemed dining establishments within the hotel: La Grande Table Marocaine and La Table. Darroze has articulated her vision to seamlessly meld her signature modern European culinary style with cherished Moroccan traditions. Furthermore, she is committed to upholding the rich gastronomic heritage that Yannick Alléno established during his illustrious 12-year tenure at the hotel. The restaurants will be in full swing by Autumn 2023.
In her expansive restaurant portfolio, which includes Hélène Darroze at The Connaught in London and Marsan by Hélène Darroze in Paris, Darroze boasts a remarkable total of six Michelin stars, solidifying her status as one of the world's most highly acclaimed and decorated chefs.
Facilities
In a hotel designed to cater to royalty and their esteemed guests, the level of service provided is nothing short of exceptional, enriched by the gracious Moroccan hospitality. A team of over 550 highly skilled and dedicated staff members, each recognized as among the finest in their field, attends to your every desire with charm and unwavering professionalism. While you have the option to reside, dine, swim, and rest in the seclusion of your private villa, tended to by a dedicated team of attendants who navigate the extensive gardens through a network of discreet underground passages to ensure your tranquility is undisturbed, it would be a missed opportunity. The property boasts a breathtakingly landscaped garden, an expansive outdoor pool, the renowned restaurant, Le Jardin, as well as two additional restaurants (showcasing both Moroccan and French fare), three inviting bars, and arguably the most exquisite hammam and spa in all of Marrakech.
Overall, if you're looking for a luxurious and stylish hotel in the heart of Marrakech, look no further than The Royal Mansour. With its exceptional service, stunning decor, and top-notch amenities, it's truly the perfect place to stay for a quintessentially Moroccan experience that makes you feel truly regal.