Thinking of visiting Marrakech? Visit the Fairmount Royal Palm and Villa Makassar and be Blown Away

Paul | November 18, 2023 | Morocco, Tourism | No Comments

Marrakech, a city brimming with exotic charm, is a vibrant tapestry of culture, art, history, and remarkable architecture, interwoven with a touch of lively chaos. From the bustling roads and the famously intense driving experience to the energetic medina and the captivating scenes of snake charmers and henna artists in Jemaa el-Fna square, the city is a bustling spectacle.

However, just a 20-minute retreat from the city center unveils a serene oasis surrounded by olive trees, lemon trees, and palms—the Royal Palm. This elegant and luxurious haven doesn’t flaunt its opulence; instead, it provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Amidst the verdant surroundings, it offers total privacy for those seeking a peaceful respite from the energetic rhythm of Marrakech. The Royal Palm stands as a refined sanctuary, inviting guests to unwind and indulge in a luxurious retreat away from the spirited ambiance of the city.

Imbued with Moorish and Mauritian influences, the hotel is architecturally divided into various buildings, hosting a total of 134 suites ranging from standard to presidential, along with 10 self-contained villas. Notably, the Royal Palm embraces grandeur, evident in its spacious accommodations—the smallest room being an expansive 72 square meters.

The expansive grounds of the Royal Palm are adorned with remarkable features, including majestic palms surrounding infinity pools, a vast collection of over 4,000 olive trees, and a carefully curated selection of aromatic herbs such as rosemary and white lavender. The meticulous upkeep of these botanical wonders is entrusted to a dedicated team of gardeners, attesting to the hotel’s commitment to creating an environment of unparalleled beauty and tranquility. Amidst the lush greenery and vibrant blooms, the Royal Palm stands as a luxurious retreat, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a haven of natural splendor and refined elegance.

The reception area exuded opulence, adorned with sumptuous fabrics, towering ceilings that imparted a sense of grandeur, and a generously sized window framing a spectacular view. In terms of first impressions, checking into this hotel was undeniably among the most memorable and luxurious experiences I’ve encountered. The combination of lavish decor, impressive architectural elements, and breathtaking scenery created an ambiance that set the tone for an exceptional stay.

The royal king prawns presented a visual feast, appearing almost luminous on the plate. Served alongside a soy-rich Asian noodle salad and a small pot of salsa, the dish offered a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The prawns themselves were a highlight—fresh, substantial, and boasting the authentic taste of the seaside. The impeccable service further enhanced the dining experience, and the impressive view added a definite wow factor, making the meal a memorable and enjoyable occasion.

Villa Makassar

Villa Makassar, a remarkable guest palace located next to the Royal Palace in Marrakech, is a twin riad meticulously crafted and adorned in the art deco fashion of the 1920s and 1930s.

Radiating luxury and opulence without an air of snobbishness, Villa Makassar offers an enchanting and warm ambiance, thanks to an exceptionally attentive personal welcome. This villa invites guests to explore one of the major artistic movements of the last century.

Named after the precious macassar wood widely utilized in the 1920s, Villa Makassar is the result of a passion for decorative art. Painstakingly restored over a span of five years, the villa showcases influences from various artistic schools, including the Austrian (Wiener Werkstätte), German (Bauhaus), French, Dutch (De Stijl), Russian (Wuthemas), Hungarian, Czechoslovakian, Romanian, and even American. More than just a guest palace, it serves as a living museum adorned with unique pieces sourced from around the globe or meticulously reproduced to perfection.

The initial lounge, designed for the enjoyment of reading and music with a high-quality BO sound system, draws inspiration from the Bauhaus style and pays tribute to the onyx craftsmanship of Mies Van Der Rohe. The furniture, crafted from shagreen and rosewood, showcases replicas of sculptures by Gustave Miklos and Joseph Csaky from the Hungarian school. Adorning the black marble inlaid floor is a rug that replicates a design by Betty Joël, an English designer prominent in the 1920s.

In conclusion, Villa Makassar is situated in the vibrant Kasbah neighborhood of Marrakech, conveniently positioned in the entertainment district and in close proximity to the airport. Notable landmarks such as the Saadian Tombs and Bab Agnaou enrich the historical tapestry of the area, while the natural beauty of Marrakech is showcased at destinations like Place des Ferblantiers and Majorelle Gardens. For those seeking cultural experiences, Mellah Market and the Royal Palace are recommended stops. Additionally, the surrounding area offers outdoor enthusiasts the chance to partake in exciting ecotours, providing a well-rounded and enriching experience for guests at Villa Makassar.