This hotel, on the most dramatic site in Fez, just inside the walls of the old city and 6 km from the new town, is one of Morocco's most famous establishments and still the sentimental leader here. This superlative Moroccan hotel is a feather in Sofitel's cap and is fancifully recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Overall, this hotel stands half a step above the crowd, with the exception of its pool, which comes in second place for dramatic panoramas (the Meridien gets that honor).
This opulently crafted property, once the palace of a prosperous vizier, contains intimate public rooms full of carved wood, elaborate plasterwork and tiling, mosaics and chandeliers, all topped with ornate painted ceilings. A mural graces the reception area in the lobby, and beautiful carpeting and plump armchairs await in the sitting area. Intricate archways lure guests farther along pathways that weave their way through the mesmerizing public areas.
The bar is a classic rendezvous, with rich red fabrics, dim lighting, and a
talented pianist or jazz accompanist. The aromatic fumes of steaming mint tea or Turkish coffee constantly permeate the air. The Moroccan restaurant serves a variety of food (outstanding Moroccan salads vs. sodden b'stilla) at dinner only, when a belly dancer entertains. The Continental room serves from an international menu at both lunch and dinner. Poolside buffets are popular in season.
Further amenities include a nightclub, a heated pool, massage facilities, an outdoor tennis court, steam room and a sauna. The secure courtyard is often full of official cars (this is where the late King Hassan sent his guests in Fez). Others adjourn here for meetings or receptions utilizing the space set aside for 200. A full host of business services is offered, and the elaborate Moorish facilities are worth the splurge for a memorable event.
All of the air-conditioned accommodations feature plush carpeting and fabrics in rich monotones, and the painted furniture (desks, armchairs, headboards and built-in closets) displays a 
riot of florid colors. Phones, wireless high-speed Internet, safes, minibars, thermostats and TVs with BBC are standard. The handsome mosaic-tiled baths have a full complement of goodies, including etched splash shields, robes, hair dryers, magnifying vanity mirrors, armloads of thick towels, and amenities such as cotton balls and shower caps. Many units enjoy views of the garden or walled city from their balconies, but even-numbered rooms on high floors boast the best sweeps of the medina. The sumptuous traditional suites in the garden annex are superb but lack those glorious panoramas. The quarters here are arguably some of the best in town simply for their design and attention to detail, with gorgeous bedside lanterns and elaborate headboards the most notable.
Only a few rooms are designated as smoke-free, and only two are equipped for the disabled. Room service works at all hours, and housekeeping does a commendable job. For the discerning traveler seeking local flavor, this is again the best choice in town.