L’Hôtel · Marrakesh, Morocco
- Name
- L'Hôtel
- Location
- Marrakesh · Morocco
- Images
- Andrew Montgomery
- Words
- Alice Finney
In the heart of The Red City of Marrakech, Medina to be specific lies L’Hôtel — Jasper Conran’s palatial getaway.
What was once a Caidal palace has been transformed into a spacious five suite retreat that combines traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with contemporary Conran-esque detailing. Located amongst a cluster of riad’s within the area, L’Hôtel stands out thanks to its size and impressively large garden, which also boasts one of the few swimming pools in the area. Space in this sought after part of the city is hard to come by.
The luxury more space affords has been honored here — the garden is arguably one of the most beautiful features of the hotel. A courtyard at the front of the building is filled with fruit trees, exotic flower beds, a water fountain and the heated pool. What makes is so special however is the delicate geometric mosaic print tiling or ‘zelige’ that has been used on the flooring.
L’Hôtel is the epitome of 1930s charm. High zoauk (a traditional Moroccan painting technique) ceilings and ornate antique furniture, textiles and lighting give the hotel a glamorous feel. Finer details, such as artwork from Conran’s own collection, make the hotel less commercial and give it a personalized touch.
Not only do the traditional design features help make L’Hôtel feel more residential, the food offering has been similarly tailored to make guests feel at home. Tagines are prepared in the traditional manner: cooked slowly in earthenware pots, using ingredients from local producers. The cuisine places an emphasis on herbs and spices associated with Moroccan dishes such as parsley, fresh coriander and tumeric.
L’Hôtel Marrakech
41 Derb Sidi Lahcen ou Ali
Bab Doukkala
40000 Marrakech
Morocco
All images © Andrew Montgomery