Morocco is a diverse country, in culture and scenery. Arabic, African, Berber, and European influences meet in bustling cinematic cities, and shimmering seaside towns.
Casablanca and Marrakech are long-time favourites on the traveller’s hotlist, but Morocco has pockets of radiance all over the country. We delve into the buzzing capital with a stay at La Sultana Marrakech, then drive three hours west to their seaside escape in Oualidia, discovering how the magic and glamour of this North African country has been weaved into the very DNA of the hotels, too.
La Sultana Marrakech: A Journey into the Souk
The Vibe
To being our Moroccan journey, we ventured to the red city, diving into the chaotic wonder of Marrakech. A colourful playground of majesty, Marrakech is one of the most enchanting cities in the world. La Sultana Marrakech is tucked away in the Medina walls; five riads make up this 28 room hotel, each with a different style and design. Highlighting art from Morocco and surrounding regions, these riads drip with stylised, architectural prowess.
The convergence of riads hides many sitting rooms and lounge areas within the hotel. From rooftop balcony views looking across the Kutubiyya Mosque, to the relaxed swimming pool located in the centre of it all, expect twists and turns throughout.
The Rooms
Each riad has a specialty theme but all have one thing in common: decedent Moroccan design, from the tactile furnishings, arched ceilings, marble finishings, intricate carvings, and sumptuous beds. One section of the hotel boasts rooms inspired by Africa’s many beautiful wild creatures. I had the pleasure of staying in the giraffe suite, complete with wall art depicting the uniquely-patterned animal.
Food and Drink
The hotel offers three restaurants that are nothing short of fantastic. For lunch, head to La Table de Souk to feast on tagines, couscous, and grilled fish (we also strongly recommend the Sfenj, a Maghrebi doughnut, for dessert). In the evening, visit the Odette Rooftop Bar & Mezzé to dine on international cuisine, with a side of soft desert breezes and hazy sunsets fading into the Atlas Mountains. The cocktail bar here serves drinks flavoured with Moroccan spices, honouring the surrounding monuments and museums of the city: try the Yves Saint Laurent in Majorelle cocktail, it was a crowd favourite. Here, after night fall, the hotel organises private star-gazing sessions with a local expert who helps map the stars and constellations. Once you’ve admired the galaxies, stay and listen to the busy city sounds. Downstairs, at La Table de La Sultana, tables are scattered around the pool where fresh spider crab and tagines using local ingredients are served.
The To-Do List
In a city as vibrant as Marrakech, it can seem a little daunting to pick out what is a must-see and what to skip. Top of the list: a souk tour. The Marrakech souks are famous for their spices, rugs, artisan jewellery, clothing, pottery, and local food. Weaving your way through the historic walls, you can find pretty much anything your heart desires. If you have time, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is a beautiful memorial to an iconic designer who was absorbed and inspired by everything Marrakech has to offer.
La Sultana Oualidia: A Desert Journey
The Vibe
After a busy few days in an equally busy city, it was time to see another side to Morocco. A few hours by car and I arrived at La Sultana Oualidia, an ocean oasis that has infused sustainability and luxury seamlessly: a welcome respite for some silence and serenity. This castle-like hotel is made out of sandstone that rises out of the Mediterranean Sea, and no stone has been left unturned in terms of attention to detail, activities, and culinary excellence. The cushy cabanas next to the infinity pool are a perfect spot for soaking up the African sun.
The Rooms
Each room here is designed with a different aesthetic vision, whether it’s the treehouse that sits above the breakfast nook, or the penthouses with expansive and romantic views. I stayed in a suite overlooking the lagoon, with two – yes, two! – beautifully crafted bathtubs, and a balcony fit for a king. There is room to read outside, while you soak in the surrounding nature.
The treehouse suite, woven into surrounding trees, offers a unique experience to live within the land. Expect the same distinct modernity as the rest of the hotel, with an opportunity to learn why Oualidia is such a special place, deeply connected with the land on which it rests.
The Little Extras
La Sultana Oualidia has an array of excursions that show off the best of the property, as well as the nearby natural wonders. For a particularly magical moment, ask for a speciality designed picnic on the beach opposite the hotel: a private chef will serve a buffet of fresh seafood and local delicacies. Ask for the seabass – you won’t be disappointed.
The hotel is dedicated to sustainability in every aspect, from a sanctuary that rehabilitates injured birds, to a garden providing the resort with fresh produce everyday. There’s a circular economy here, that does good for both the guests and the surrounding community. The La Sultana Oualidia is located near another bird sanctuary too; home to a diverse collection of Moroccan birds, including flamingos. Additionally, there is a beautiful cove perfect for paddle boarding and surfing just a short boat ride away.
The La Sultana hotels take the very best that Morocco has to offer and infuse it into every part of their experience, offering guests a chance to go behind the glitzy desert-glamour. A stay with La Sultana captures the multitudes of Morocco, and exemplifies all the reasons this country should hold a place in your heart, and your passport. The memories I made here, I will treasure for a lifetime.
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