Amidst the fragrant gardens of mythical Marrakech, a dream palace rises as a sanctuary of elegance and Moroccan tradition: La Mamounia. More than just a hotel, it is a living legend in the world of hospitality, which has welcomed kings, movie stars and demanding travelers for more than a century, offering an experience that transcends conventional luxury.
Upon crossing the gates of La Mamounia, we are welcomed by a universe where time seems suspended. Zellige mosaics, hand-carved stucco and Moorish arches create a setting that is both opulent and welcoming. The aroma of flowers and vegetation hangs in the air, mixing with the soft sounds of water from the fountains that dot the lush gardens – a legacy of Prince Moulay Mamoun, who inspired the hotel’s name. In the spacious lobby, the highlight is the Grande Dame, a central light fixture that is a magnificent masterpiece installed in the heart of the hotel in homage to traditional Berber jewelry.
In 2020, renowned architect and design duo Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku embarked on a spectacular renovation of the hotel, and in 2023, the hotel celebrated the centenary of its opening. La Mamounia is the hotel that transformed the destination and is a landmark in Marrakech hospitality, having hosted such iconic names as King Charles of England, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, Tom Cruise, Alfred Hitchcock and Paul McCartney, among many others.
Accommodations
The rooms and suites are a show in themselves. In our spacious Executive Suite, we are immediately transported to Moroccan culture, where every detail is transcendental, beautiful and comfortable. From the terrace, we can see the sumptuous gardens, hear the birds, the call to prayer, and allow ourselves to simply stay there, in the company of a Moroccan tea. And it is these unique features that often make our stay even more memorable.
Gastronomy
The sensory experience is intensified in the hotel restaurants. The hotel has five different dining options and four bars. We start with the fantastic ‘Le Marocain’, where Chef Rachid Agouray invites us to immerse ourselves in the local cuisine, with fragrant tagines, delicately seasoned couscous and traditional sweets served by candlelight in a setting reminiscent of a palatial riad. For those seeking international flavors, ‘L’Italien par Jean-Georges’ offers a refined interpretation of Italian cuisine. And one of my favorite moments, and because Asian cuisine is one of my favorite in the world, there’s nothing like a tasting at ‘Asiatique par Jean-Georges’, ideal for haute cuisine enthusiasts, which offers a surprising menu with a precise and vibrant fusion of oriental cuisine. Also worth mentioning is ‘Le Churchill’, in homage to Sir Winston Churchill, or the ‘Bar Majorelle’ (which features an impressive painting by the painter Jacques Majorelle). Before dinner, a cocktail on the terrace in the hotel gardens makes everything even more appealing.
Spa
Our stay would not be complete without a visit to the legendary Spa – a true temple of well-being. Spanning over 2,500 m², La Mamounia Spa is an extraordinary experience to be enjoyed in a luxurious setting straight out of One Thousand and One Nights. Among marble columns and golden mosaics, guests immerse themselves in ancient beauty rituals. We tried the traditional hammam, a purifying experience, followed by a relaxing massage with exclusive products from the marocMaroc brand. Relaxation and pure immersion of the senses, body and soul.
Final Notes
La Mamounia is not just a hotel – it’s a state of mind. A place where the splendor of the past meets the comfort of the present, creating memories that remain long after you’re gone. Special mention to the entire hotel staff, always attentive and helpful, as knowing how to welcome in a genuine way is an art and in this sense our stay was perfect and we easily understand why this is one of the best hotels in the world. In Marrakech, a city of contrasts and charms, La Mamounia stands supreme as an icon of true timeless luxury.
By Carla Branco
INFO: https://mamounia.com