The former imperial city of Marrakech is one of the jewel’s in Africa’s crown. Its proximity to Europe – less than a 4-hour flight from London – has helped it become a major tourism hub, and yet visitors are drawn here by far more than mere convenience. Marrakech offers a sensory explosion of sights, colours, tastes and smells – all of which are at their most abundant within the confines of the city’s historic medina.
Accommodation in Marrakech revolves around the concept of the ‘riad’ – a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. The options for staying in a riad can vary from budget all the way through to the very pinnacle of luxury. For those happy to push the boat out and experience Moroccan hospitality at its most lavish, we’ve picked out 7 of the best 5-star and luxury hotels the city has to offer.
Kenzi Menara Palace & Resort
FROM £144/ NIGHT
Situated within a 10-acre park in Marrakech, a short drive from the famous Jamaâ el Fna Square, this luxurious hotel combines a plum location with some highly impressive facilities. There’s an outdoor pool, a piano bar, a high-tech fitness centre and three separate restaurants serving upscale cuisine. Guests can also treat themselves to one complimentary visit to the on-site sauna or hamman. Guest rooms are decorated in a quintessentially Moroccan style and feature a balcony with mountain views, air-conditioning and free WiFi. The Al Mazar shopping centre and Pacha nightclub are both an easy walk away.
Dar Sofil
FROM £182/ NIGHT
Situated around 10km south of the centre of Marrakech, Dar Sofil is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. All guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and tea/coffee-making facilities, and a private terrace of balcony, while some also have a cosy seating area. Around the hotel you’ll find an on-site restaurant, an outdoor pool and spa centre, and tennis courts at an adjoining guest house. Free private parking is available for guests, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Menara Gardens is 6.8 miles away.
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
FROM £485/ NIGHT
Even closer to the beautiful Menara Gardens is this exceptional offering from the renowned Four Seasons hotel brand. Guest rooms and suites have air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and a balcony with eye-catching views over either the hotel’s very own garden, its pool or the surrounding mountains. Notable hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a wellness centre, two tennis courts, a business centre, a rooftop terrace, and a choice of three restaurants serving international cuisine. Meals can also be served directly to your room on request.
Hivernage Hotel & Spa
FROM £131/ NIGHT
An easy walk from the famous medina and souks of Marrakech, this luxury hotel offers a premium location. All guest rooms are equipped with satellite TV and free WiFi. Elsewhere in the hotel there are panoramic terraces with exceptional views of historic Marrakech and its stunning natural surroundings. Guests can also indulge their senses in an on-site spa which has a sauna and a hot tub. There’s also an on-site restaurant specialising in innovative dishes using local produce – all of which can be enjoyed on a delightful terrace.
Savoy le Grand hotel
FROM £121/ NIGHT
Just moments from Menara Gardens, Savoy Le Grand Hotel is another popular high-end hotel with a scenic setting. Guest rooms have a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom, and some also come with a seating area and a terrace or balcony. There’s a 24-hour front desk, a hairdressing salon, a barbecue available for communal use, a gift shop and a stylish bar all located on-site. For those arriving in their own transport, there’s free private parking. Free WiFi is also available throughout all areas of the hotel. Marrakech Plaza is 1.4 miles away.
Riad la Source du Desert
FROM £103/ NIGHT
A couple of kilometres away from the historic medina, this upscale riad-style hotel provides a convenient base from which to explore all that Marrakech has to offer. All guest rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, air conditioning and a wardrobe. Some also come with a comfortable seating area. Continental breakfasts are served each morning and there’s also an on-site restaurant serving authentic Moroccan dishes. There’s also a 24-hour front desk, an outdoor swimming pool, a pretty terrace and a cosy shared lounge for relaxing or socialising with other guests. The fascinating Saadian Tombs are less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carrè Eden
FROM £124/ NIGHT
Part of the renowned Radisson Blue chain of upmarket hotels, the Hotel Marrakech Carré Eden is a reliable choice for discerning travellers. There’s an outdoor pool and a restaurant, along with a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a tour desk, luggage storage and a kids’ club that lets parents relax and unwind. Guest rooms have air conditioning, a balcony, a patio and a private bathroom. There’s also free on-site parking and free WiFi in all areas, including in guest rooms. Marrakech Plaza is just a few minutes’ drive away.