This hotel, occupying extensive grounds comprising a palm grove, next to the superior Melia Tichka Salam, 4 km north of the old city, continues to flourish under the watchful eye of the Kenzi group. Becoming more prevalent with groups and conferences rather than individuals, this hotel is starting to lose focus on the details, however.
Fresh flowers adorn the lobby, which is furnished with green sofas atop Moroccan rugs, some surprisingly original in design. Piped-in music resounds in a two-story atrium with tile floors, greenery and a boutique with fine merchandise. The lounge is inviting with its fountain, full-size palms and stylish armchairs.
Guests dine in a remade attractive Moroccan and larger international restaurant, at a snack bar and at a poolside buffet. The breakfast room opens onto a terrace skirting extensive, well-kept gardens. A nightclub and a piano bar provide much of the entertainment, helping to keep things going until early morning.
The large clover-shape pool, which is surrounded by a shady palm grove and is heated in winter, is one of the most beautiful in Marrakech. A new
gym and spa area have brought about a range of services, including massages, scrubs and beauty treatments. Lounge chairs and umbrella-shaded tables provide plenty of space for ample relaxation by worn-out sightseers. Tennis players have access to two clay courts, but corporate players get attracted by the meeting facilities (including Internet access) equipped for up to 300.
Reached by open-air atrium hallways, the well-kept accommodations boast air-conditioning, built-in cabinets, brass hanging lamps, TVs, minibars, safes, two comfortable double beds with cloth headboards and quilted bedspreads, small, brown-tiled baths with marble countertops and WCs, and balconies. Local artwork and decent carpeting round out the decor. The baths are unimpressionable with limited vanities and dim lighting (perhaps that is the point to avoid noticing the ancient fixtures).
Room service operates around the clock, and the friendly and helpful staff speaks good English. Maintenance flaws such as ragged carpet, musty odors and nicked furnishings are abundant but rarely hinder the practicality of the facilities. This hotel competes well against the Meridien but lacks the finesse to impress CEOs. Overall it is one of the best large-scale retreats here, but independent travelers without transportation will find it inconvenient.