Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

Hotel review

Whenever you book a stay at a Mandarin Oriental property the expectations are high — it’s a hotel chain that has garnered global praise for its superb service, stunning interiors and attention to detail. And the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is no different! It’s a sumptuous experience from start to finish. As you’re welcomed into the hotel, the feel is that you’ve entered a magnificent architectural statement with marble and water features galore, and design that truly lives up to the MO high standards. The other thing you notice is the stunning view. From the elevated lobby area you can see all the way down to the events pavilion at the other end of the grounds via the huge square swimming pool, pool garden restaurant and long water features that stretch the whole way down. On a good clear day, the Atlas Mountains vista is to-die-for! Your butler in a golf buggy will then whisk you off to your chosen suite or villa (all with pool and the suites in the main building also with great views). The accommodations are beautifully done. Pool villas mimic a classic Moroccan riad with a central courtyard with tumbling fronds of pretty white bougainvillea and jasmine, huge day beds for lounging and outdoor fireplace for cooler evenings, plus a really good-sized pool around which the rooms wrap. Spacious is not quite good enough for what you’ll find here. There’s a large sitting room with desk (if you must check your emails) leading through to your equally large bedroom which has the added bonus of direct access to the whirlpool tub at the end of the pool (so you can just fall out of bed into the water if that’s what you want), then through to the enormous marble bathroom with vast round bath, monsoon shower/steam room, dual sinks, and marble tables that are heated to ensure your towels will be cosy for you at all times. The design is super stylish: think black, white and creams with areas of wooden flooring accessorised by marble table tops, carved polished stone feature walls, black and white rugs and subtle eastern style lighting. It’s a fabulous combination of east meets west style that the MO group does so well! If you can drag yourself away from your room, the restaurants will not disappoint either. Often you find in large luxury hotels that the one thing letting the place down is the dining on offer. Well not here. Shirvan is an exciting concept created and developed by Michelin starred chef Akrame Benallal, where the Georgian chef is trying to emulate all the flavours and colours that you might find on a journey down the Silk Road. The result is seriously good from the sharing starters to a chicken tandoori that you’ll find hard to beat. Lunch can be taken at the Pool Garden restaurant which delivers really tasty food in a lovely pool side spot (perfect for some respite from the rays). It’s hard to find fault with such a well oiled machine as a Mandarin Oriental and this one certainly delivers on all fronts. Yes you’ll need deep pockets to stay here, but it’ll definitely be worth it!

Sarah Empson Review published: 12/03/2024