Inspired by 14th century Moorish architecture this private palace, now a Relais & Châteaux hotel, is the brainchild of Parisians Patrick and Nicole Grandsire LeVillair.
The main courtyard, with its carefully sculpted rose-bushes and gently rippling water, is reminiscent of an ancient Persian garden, providing an oasis of calm. Yet just 15 minutes away by car you are at the heart of Marrakech's Medina.
The 13 spacious suites each have their own living room with fire place, bedroom, dressing room and en-suite bathroom, decorated with local and imported treasures. Larger apartments are also available with their own private pool on the terrace and a second living room.
Within the grounds are citrus orchards, a ruin, a kitchen garden, a nomad terrace and an olive grove. Choose between the swimming pool in the garden, surrounded by palm trees, and the pool at top of the tower. Try the traditional Hammam or have a massage in the vaulted cellars of the palace.
In the white-marble restaurant with its enormous arched windows, chef Damien Durand (trained in France by both Joël Robuchon and Alain Ducasse) creates impeccable seafood dishes in a wholeheartedly French tradition.
Other facilities include the Grand Salon, Salon des Myrtes, billiard room, cigar club and library with lecture room. Guests can also play tennis in the olive grove or play golf just 10 minutes away.
