A guide to Marrakech
Telegraph spa columnist and Red contributing editor, Rosie Green delves into her top picks for exploring Marrakech. Be inspired by Rosie’s experience of sunshine, souks and spas.
Hard to believe Marrakech, that exotic, other worldly city of sunshine and souks, is only three and a half hours away by plane. I went to beat the heartbreak blues and got a dose of Vitamin D and a foodie feast. Here’s my round up of the best places to eat, sleep, spa and visit.
The owners’ CVs are peppered with names like Nomad and Kulchi, so this was always going to be a good dining experience. The food blends Australian freshness with vibrant tastes of the Middle East and South Asia. Using the best quality ingredients in Marrakech, the meals are next level flavourful. And the cocktails are unmissable.
To spa: Hammam at Royal Mansour
As a spa columnist I have visited more than a few spas and this is hands down the most beautiful I’ve ever visited. Located in the chi chi Royal Mansour, it’s an incredible light, white atrium with lattice work screens, centred by a marble fountain filled with white roses. The hammam is their speciality and you emerge from the scrubbing, soaping and sluicing feeling rejuvenated in mind and body. What makes this one stand apart? Pure luxury. Excellent therapists, beautiful marble design, the softest towels and the warmest water.
Marrakech is famous for its gardens, but this one is less well known. Because of this it stays serene and uncrowded. Flowing water, lush greenery and a pleasingly symmetrical layout – it calms the mind and nourishes the soul. Oh and the cafe is really good too.
This restaurant is where the cool crowd hang out. Off the bustling souk you climb the stairs to the rooftop, where you can dine with views of the Atlas Mountains. Traditional Moroccan recipes are given a 2020 update with fresh ingredients in avant grade combinations. There’s no alcohol, but the mocktails are heaven.
El Fenn is hip. Achingly so. Inspired design mixes traditional Moroccan colours and style with modern amenities. There’s a shop which sells a lot of cool stuff that looks and smells amazing, but warning, might not work in the home counties. The rooms are in jewel colours, some with plunge pools. The food and wine are high quality and the rooftop restaurant is a dining experience not to be missed. Think striped linen cushion covers, festoon lights and roaring fires.
For drinks: The Grand Cafe de la Poste
Black and white chequerboard floor tiles, plush red velvet seating, candle light and palm fronds – this place is a bit cliched and touristy – but it’s still a must do. Enjoy the jazz, sup the Moroccan rose and soak up the glamorous history.
If you’re anything like us, you’ll already be searching for your next Morrocan flights to book. Once you’ve planned in your hotspots and must-sees, make sure you stock up on your Saltee. We recommend Body Sea & Sun Lotion for those days relaxing poolside. With added MelinOil, your summer glow will last even weeks after you return. For those days your exploring SPF50 Face Daily Protection Formula is ideal for everyday sun protection. Packed with Vitamin E and Neroli Oil to boost hydration.
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