Review – We Check in to Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech

With a backdrop of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, villas that make you want to stay forever and verdant gardens showcasing a kaleidoscope of over 100,000 roses, Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is a showstopper in The Red City.

Just a fifteen-minute drive from Marrakech Menara airport and a stone’s throw from the magical Medina, resort highlights include world-class eateries, super-luxe pool villas, breathtaking gardens and some seriously stunning spa and wellness facilities.

The Spa

A soothing haven nestled in the gardens, the Moorish design of the spa takes influence from Andalusian architecture. Arched walkways lead to sumptuous spa suites – each with a terrace and private garden for outdoor treatments.

Highlights include his and hers Hammams, an indoor pool, a fitness centre and yoga studio, as well as hair and beauty salons.

Inspired by ancient traditions and tailored to guests’ needs; treatments include traditional Asian and Moroccan rituals, oxygen facials and high-end anti-ageing treatments.

The Detox Programme

The tranquillity of the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech lends itself perfectly to a wellness retreat and the new Detox Programme doesn’t disappoint. Created in partnership with certified iridologist, detox expert and health practitioner Jennifer Thompson, the retreat aims to reconnect guests to the five pillars of optimal health: mindset, nutrition, hydration, activity (exercise) and rest.

The tailored fitness programme – with a meditation session, yoga classes and a PT session included – ticks the exercise box. You can also take advantage of the 73-foot indoor lap pool and group Zumba classes. If you’re still feeling particularly energetic there’s a great jogging trail around the glorious gardens – if you’re feeling frivolous you can partake in belly dancing classes.

The detox cuisine served on the programme is delicious and plentiful – combining high-fibre, gluten-free vegan meals (both the Vegetable Rice Pilaf and Moroccan Quinoa With Pomegranates were particularly tasty) with fresh juices formulated to stimulate detoxification and increase energy levels. The Hammam treatment included in the programme leaves you feeling totally invigorated, with skin like a baby.

If you’re travelling solo, as I was, there’s a choice of daily activities to keep you busy including cookery classes and workshops. You’ll also have enough free time to venture out to the Medina and souks.

To Stay

Villas are more like palatial riads and quite simply make your jaw drop. With a lap pool, hot tub and a private steam room (complete with black soap and a body brush for a DIY Hammam experience) – these are some of the most salubrious residences in the city. Bathrooms are the size of a small apartment and laden with delicious citrus-scented products.

To Eat

Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is home to some of the best eateries in the city. If you decide to skip a detox meal you can choose between innovative Cantonese cuisine at Ling Ling (with background tunes designed by Hakkasan’s resident DJ), Moroccan fine dining at Mes’lalla, healthy light bites at The Pool Garden or in-villa dining.

Don’t Miss

There’s so much to do in this beautiful city – from a trip to the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and souk markets to the unmissable Jardin Majorelle – concierge can arrange any trips and guided tours.

British Airways fly from Gatwick to Marrakech from £49 one way http://www.britishairways.com