MANDARIN ORIENTAL MARRAKECH

An Andalucian-inspired spa calms body and soul whilst a restaurant overseen by Meryem Cherkaoui crafts Moroccan cuisine with a contemporary twist. Hakkasan offers a modern Cantonese alternative. The generously sized villas are set in magnificent courtyards and sleep from three to five people, each with a private pool, Jacuzzi and an open air shower. The suites range from 'Atlas' (sleeps three) to 'Penthouse' (sleeps 19), all individually styled and sumptuously furnished, with traditional Moroccan touches such as Berber motifs alongside Apple TVs and Bose sound systems. Suites of all categories have an outdoor terrace with private plunge pool and dining area. Mandarin Oriental's serene spa offers indulgent treatments, spa suites and a traditional Moroccan Hammam while the active can enjoy the heated outdoor pool, jogging trail or a round at the Royal Golf Club. The close proximity to Marrakech's Medina offers many opportunities to explore the city and its myriad of sights or simply relax on a haven of fragrant peace.

Suitable for:

• Couples looking for culture and sightseeing as well as a dose of indulgent relaxation.
• Families seeking to explore Marrakech without being in the heart of the city.

Things to do at the hotel:

• Relax by the large heated pool.
• Indulge in a spa treatment inspired by Oriental and Moroccan heritage.
• Take a traditional Hammam.
• Take the jogging trail around the resort or play golf at two nearby 18 hole courses.
• Enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine at Mes'Lalla or modern Cantonese at Hakkasan.
• An activities programme is available for children during the school holidays.

Things to do nearby:

• Walk in the Atlas Mountains, exploring traditional Berber villages en route.
• Bargain for Moroccan artefacts in the famous souks.
• Take a helicopter into the desert for a spectacular picnic.
• Explore the Jardin Marjorelle, restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Perre Bergé in 1980.
• Visit the Djemaa El Fnaa at sunset as the square comes to life with snake charmers and story tellers.
• Visit the Saadian Tombs, a masterpiece of Italian Carrara marble and decorative plasterwork to commemorate Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour.
• Explore the dazzlingly ornate Bahia Palace, including the harem that once accommodated Bou Ahmed's four wives and numerous concubines.
• Go riding in the Agafay Desert.
• Take a hot air balloon over Marrakech.
• Explore the palm groves by camel.