5 Reasons to Love the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

In contrast to some of the other five-star luxury hotels in Marrakech that exude opulence loudly, the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech adopts a more subtle approach. We found this understated elegance preferable to the sensation of tiptoeing around a museum. While each Mandarin Oriental property worldwide has its unique characteristics, the brand’s chic and relaxed decor is just one aspect that makes it one of my favorite luxury hotel brands. Our excitement peaked when we discovered the recently opened Marrakech property during our long-awaited trip to the city. Here are just 5 reasons why Mandarin Oriental Marrakech captured our hearts:

1. Exotic Villas

The Mandarin Oriental Marrakech boasts 54 villas, each spanning either 3000 or 4500 square feet, ensconced within their own private rose-covered walled sanctuaries. Modeled in the fashion of the Moroccan riad, the villas feature rooms arranged around a central living space. At the heart of each villa, an infinity pool with a built-in jacuzzi takes center stage, surrounded by several inviting outdoor living areas and a discreetly positioned outdoor kitchen.

Indulging in room service, dining beneath the stars, and basking in the warmth of a roaring fire in the expansive outdoor fireplace while clad in plush robes is a fabulous experience. This was precisely our choice on the first night, given our weariness from the long drive back to Marrakech from the Sahara. The following day, we found it challenging to tear ourselves away from sunbathing and intermittent plunges into our private pool. While our Sahara luxury glamping experience wasn’t exactly rugged, that day of relaxation was much needed.

2. Spa

The spa at a sprawling 19,000 square feet is truly deserving of a dedicated review. The moment you step through the entrance and lay eyes on the intricate brickwork, your senses are captivated. The spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, featuring an indoor pool, six spa suites, a yoga studio, a well-equipped fitness center, a tranquil relaxation room, and separate male and female hammans. Each element contributes to an immersive and indulgent experience, promising a retreat into a world of serenity and well-being from the very first glimpse.

3. Mes’Lalla

In a culinary world dominated by male chefs, the presence of women at the forefront is rare, especially in a predominantly Muslim country like Morocco. However, Moroccan chef Meryem Cherkaou, hailing from Rabat, challenges this norm at Mes’Lalla, the on-property restaurant of the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. Cherkaou infuses a contemporary twist into Moroccan cuisine, making Mes’Lalla celebrated as one of Marrakech’s best restaurants. Regardless of whether you’re a guest at the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, dining at Mes’Lalla is highly recommended. The menu, featuring traditional and signature dishes such as braised lobster, traditional pastilla, and beef shank tagine, offers a tantalizing selection. For those facing the delightful dilemma of choice, Chef Cherkaou presents a solution with her curated tasting menu.

4. Customized Tours and Activities

The Mandarin Oriental Marrakech has a wonderful and knowledgeable concierge team who can set up unique tours and activities in and around Marrakech that you likely won’t find in your Morocco guide book. From small Berber village visits complete with an authentic meal made in a Berber home (trust us, it’s a must do!) to hot air ballooning for a birds-eye view of the Marrakech medina and snow-capped High Atlas mountains or even touring around on a motorcycle sidecar,  MO has a unique offering of activities to make your trip one you’ll remember. Ours certainly turned out to be a bucket list trip to Morocco!

5. The Views

While we did also spend time staying at a traditional riad inside the Medina, waking up and having breakfast with this view to the snow-capped High Atlas mountains each morning just couldn’t be beat. With the juxtaposition of the snow and the lush, green grounds you temporarily forget that you’re in the North African desert. The Mandarin Oriental Marrakech could hardly be more postcard perfect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the culinary landscape is often dominated by male chefs, making the presence of a talented female chef like Meryem Cherkaou at Mes’Lalla in the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech a refreshing and noteworthy exception. Hailing from Rabat, Cherkaou has skillfully infused a contemporary twist into Moroccan cuisine, elevating Mes’Lalla to the ranks of Marrakech’s best restaurants. The menu, showcasing a delectable array of traditional and signature dishes, including braised lobster, traditional pastilla, and beef shank tagine, beckons both guests and visitors alike. Cherkaou’s thoughtful solution to the dilemma of choice through a curated tasting menu adds to the allure of this culinary haven. Whether staying at the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech or not, a meal at Mes’Lalla is not just a dining experience; it is a celebration of the rich flavors and cultural nuances of Moroccan cuisine in the hands of a talented female chef.