Morocco’s luxury hotel scene has matured dramatically over the past decade. Alongside the traditional riad experience, a new generation of design hotels and restored palaces now offers world-class service in extraordinary architectural settings. These are the standouts.
Marrakech: La Mamounia
La Mamounia is Morocco’s most famous hotel — and one of the most celebrated in the world. Set in 8 hectares of gardens inside the medina walls, it has hosted Churchill, Hitchcock and countless heads of state. The recent restoration by architect Patrick Jouin preserved the legendary Art Deco-Moorish interiors while adding contemporary comfort. A night here is an event, not just an accommodation choice.
Marrakech: El Fenn
For something more intimate and design-led, El Fenn (part-owned by Vanessa Branson) occupies a 17th-century riad with 28 rooms, a rooftop pool, gallery-quality contemporary art and a restaurant that competes with the city’s best. The atmosphere is relaxed and creative rather than grand.
Fès: Riad Fès
The finest hotel in Fès is Riad Fès — a 19th-century palace with 28 rooms, two restaurants, a hammam and a rooftop pool with views over the ancient medina. The breakfast alone, served in the courtyard under orange trees, is worth the price of the room.
Tangier: El Minzah
El Minzah has been Tangier’s grande dame since 1930. Its Andalusian courtyard, legendary bar (where Ian Fleming allegedly invented the martini in its current form) and views across the bay make it one of Morocco’s most atmospheric places to stay.
Agadir: Royal Atlas
For a beach luxury experience, the Royal Atlas in Agadir combines direct beach access, a large pool complex and reliable service in a setting that makes the most of Morocco’s finest surf beach. Good for families and couples who want comfort without medina intensity.
