Villa des Orangers

Drawing up at La Villa des Orangers and you might be forgiven for thinking that you’ve been dropped at the wrong place. But this is Marrakech and all the best things seem to be revealed behind ancient wooden doors. Once you’ve spotted the chic brass name plate and looked down the entrance corridor, you begin to see that you’re in for rather a treat. Beyond the atmospheric little reception area lies a gorgeous interior courtyard (the first of many) with central fountain gently tinkling away in the background. Then the fun starts; working your way around this rabbit warren of a property filled with wonderful little nooks and crannies that have leather chairs, comfy sofas, beautiful objets and stunning statement light fittings, just made for passing lazy days (and when it’s cold a cosy welcoming fire will be there to greet you too). The property itself dates back to the 1930s, though you’d be forgiven for thinking that it was much older due the stunning interiors; think intricate ceilings, and authentic woodwork, and beautiful wood panelling. It was converted from riad/home to a luxury hotel in 1998 and has maintained its top notch level ever since. The rooms and suites continue the theme of relaxed, understated elegance with classical yet modern style. Each is individually designed but all are beautifully appointed, and come with huge marble bathrooms with his’n’hers sinks, and both shower and large soaking tub. Some come with private patio or terrace and others open directly onto one of the many courtyards; and others have a fireplace for lighting on chilly days. Outside there are three heated pools, one rooftop, one fabulous 16m lap pool and one smaller one in a hidden courtyard (this comes as a private option if you book the riad — a two bed room unit which sleeps up to five and is ideal for family groups, though it can be booked per room). La Villa des Orangers has more than just the accommodation to boast about. Its restaurant is easily one of the best in town and attracts diners from both those staying here and non-residents. The cuisine is superb; a good mix of Moroccan dishes and more traditional European style fare, but all executed with superb aplomb; and the setting of dining around the main pool couldn’t be more romantic. The final luxury string to the bow here is the Nuxe Spa, an indulgent space with treatment rooms and a hammam for the ultimate in pampering. Staff are excellent; this place operates like a very well-oiled machine! They are unfailingly helpful and attentive, but at the same time they slip seamlessly away to leave you to your reveries in this stunning tranquil oasis. If you want to visit this frenetic city, but have a sophisticated and classy haven to return to at the end of the day, I cannot recommend La Villa Des Orangers highly enough!

 

Written by Sarah Empson

• Parking
• Public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs EUR 5 per day.
• Garden
• A series of courtyard areas all planted with lush green foliage and flowers
• Swimming Pool
• There are three outdoor heated pools to choose from
• Airport transfer
• Included in the room price.
• Restrictions on children
• Over 12s only.
• Rooms with balcony/terrace
• Bar
• Fireplace
• In room DVD
• Car not required
• Roof terrace
• Safe
• Family Suites
• Bath robes
• Wifi
• Walking distance restaurants
• Outdoor dining
• Sauna/Steam

• Massage
• No pets
• Private dining room
• Not suitable for disabled guests
• Sit-out Terrace
• Good wine list
• Sitting Room
• Spa
• Restaurant
• Child friendly
• Business Centre
• Room service
• Suites
• Concierge
• Satellite / Cable TV
• Air conditioning
• Free wifi
• Views

• Other Activities
• Wander around the Djemaa el Fna bursting with fire breathers, snake charmers, belly dancers and street vendors.
• Sights nearby
• The hotel is located a stone's throw from the Koutoubia mosque; it's only 10 mins walk to the medina

• Local markets
• Just around the corner you'll find the hustle and bustle of the famous Jemaâ El Fna square.
• Golf
• There are several 18-hole courses 10-15 minutes away.

Why do people love staying in your hotel? Our clients love to stay in our property because of its location and easy access, the medina and many restaurants are within a walking distance. Moreover It's the perfect size, larger than a Riad but keeping the intimate side that is lacking in the huge establishments. Spending a stay at the Villa des Orangers is an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. This place is a haven of peace nestled in the heart of the bustling Medina of Marrakech.

What is there to do in the area or on site? Walking to the Djema El Fna square in the evening and discover the magic part of Marrakech, getting lost in the souks and meet extraordinary people, craftsmen, discover secret places behind small wooden doors. All main sites of the medina to visit within a walking distance, shopping in discerning boutiques, visiting the Majorelle garden and the Yves Saint-Laurent Museum is a must! On site discover the benefits of a traditional Moroccan hammam with black soap and orange blossom soaping, relax by one of the pool and enjoy a lunch on the rooftop terrace or in the shadow of the orange trees.

What kind of breakfast do you offer? Breakfast is à a carte and included in the room rate.

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? A light lunch is served daily between noon and 3:00pm, gastronomic dinner with Mediterranean flavour and Moroccan cuisine is served in the evening around the main pool in the garden during the nice seasons or by a fire place in one of restaurant during cooler evening. A non-exhaustive list of fine dining or more simple restaurants is suggested by our concierge for those who wish to eat outside!

Which are your most popular room types, and why? The most popular room types are the room with terrace or suite with terrace, the terrace is above the room with a direct access by an inside staircase where you can enjoy the view to the near Koutoubia mosque or the Atlas mountain, just relax and take some sun or have a candle light dinner surrounded by the magical night of the red city

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms? Children from 10/12 years old are welcome, some Junior Suites or Master Suites can accommodate an extra bed.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers? Service is superb and all 64 staff are charming and professional to make your stay memorable!