Courtesy La Mamounia

          “An eternal palace. Once upon a time, there was a place called

La Mamounia . . .  as in a tale from long ago.”

                                                                                        Jacques Garcia, architect 

Marrakech. Exotic. Alluring. Fanciful. Majestic desert encounters, the not to be missed camel ride, Berber villages and settings worthy of the Arabian Nights.

Rich heritage is embodied at La Mamounia, one of the world’s most palatial and majestic hotels. The history and traditions of great artisanship are apparent at every turn. Upon entering the lobby, a sense of peaceful serenity enfolds the guest as traditional and modern artistry blend into one.

Courtesy La Mamounia Hotel

After a daytime visit to the Mecca, guests may wish to relax by the luxurious pool. Mornings are spent table side by the pool savoring Executive Chef Fabrice Lasnon’s spectacular breakfast buffets. Foods reflect not only Moroccn cuisine, but French, Italian and Spanish as well.

Relax after a long day of sightseeing. Enjoy binge pampered in the opulence of the spa.

Courtesy La Mamounia

With breathtaking beauty, guests slow down to admire intricate stained glass, ornate wooden latticework, sculpted plaster walls embellished with straw, fountains, hand carved copper lanterns, and thick wool carpets. Over one thousand artisans worked for three years on the exquisite renovation. Pictured above is an Andalusion patio, an elongated hall with lateral alcoves and reflective pools.

Courtesy La Mamounia Hotel

Pictured above is our hallway, rich in intricate detail. The chiaroscuro of light and dark plays out as guests return to their rooms. The eye cannot stop taking in the visual plethora of ornate, exquisite artisanship .

Courtesy La Mamounia

Water plays an important role throughout La Mamounia, whether for reflection or  fun. Note the intricate detail of  wooden ceilings and lanterns, providing ambient, serene light. Or think of yourself as a princess and climb onto the raised cushion lounge above the water to experience serenity, relaxation and renewal. Even the pillows on the raised lounge beckon.

Courtesy La Mamounia Hotel

 “When you have a palm grove and an olive grove that are more than one

thousand years old, you show them off.”

                                                                                                Jacques Garcia, architect

The gardens are sumptuous and include 20 lush acres of bougainvillea, delphinium, fragrant jasmine, orange trees, roses and palm trees, on grounds once reserved for royal festivities. Pictured above is a small LeMenzeh, along one of the garden walkways, where guests can enjoy a fresh lemonade, a selection of homemade ice creams and chocolate candies. Guests play a game of tennis,  stop to play bocce ball or  listen to birds singing while strolling through the grounds.

Courtesy La Mamounia Hotel

La Mamounia sits on 20 lush acres of exquisitely landscaped grounds. Views of the Atlas Mountains and the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech,  provide an almost cinematographic panoramic view. The surroundings are surpassed only by the extraordinary service of the exceptional staff.

Courtesy La Mamounia Hotel

Savor the day.  .  .  La Mamounia will win your heart and forever!

NOTE

Jacques Garcia is the architect who orchestrated the meticulous renovation of La Mamounia before it reopened in 2009. No wonder La Mamounia has received top industry awards too numerous to mention. I will include just a few below.

Meilleur Hôtel pour le Service 2011 | Condé Nast Traveller Gold List | Best Hotel for Service 2011

Meilleur Hôtel Spa dans le Monde 2011 | Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Spa Awards | Best Hotel Spa in the World 2011

Hôtel de l’Année 2010 | Tatler Travel Guide  | Hotel of the Year 2010

Meilleur Resort 2010 | Travel and Leisure Design Awards | Best Resort 2010

Meilleur Nouveau Spa International 2010 et 2011| American Spa Magazine  | Best New International Spa 2010

My husband and I were fortunate to take our 12-year-old granddaughter, “The Blue Baker,” on this unforgettable adventure. We want to thank everyone at La Mamounia, especially Directeur General Didier Picquot and Executive Chef Fabrice Lasnon, for extending such impeccable hospitality and service. My Blue Baker especially loved Chef Fabrice’s kitchen tour and pastry decorating lesson!

– The Gourmet Review