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Condé Nast Traveler has included L’Hôtel Marrakech in its 2020 Gold List as one of the best places to stay in Africa and the Middle East. L’Hôtel Marrakech previously featured on the Gold List in 2019 and 2018.

An annual overview of the world’s best hotels and resorts, the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List is handpicked by the title’s editors and contributors and is one of the most prestigious awards in the travel industry.

L’Hôtel Marrakech is a privately owned riad set in the heart of the ‘red city’s’ Medina. Described by Condé Nast Traveler as ‘one of the best hotels in the world,’ L’Hôtel is conveniently close to the vibrant Jemaa El Fna square, the bustling Souk and nearby the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque. This historic 19th century riad, originally the central part of a Caidal palace, comprises five spacious suites, not usually found in the riads of Marrakech, surrounding a uniquely wide courtyard garden and swimming pool. This charming retreat combines delicious food, great comfort and service whilst capturing the elegance of hotels of the1930s. Owned by Jasper Conran, the riad combines superb Moroccan craftsmanship with pieces of antique furniture, textiles, lighting and art from his collection, making it feel more like a home than a hotel.

On entering the hotel, you will find yourself in the courtyard garden – planted with banana, orange and lemon trees – and welcomed by the soothing sound of water from the central fountain. Birds sing, perfumed roses and jasmine abound whilst bougainvillea and honeysuckle cascade down the whitewashed walls.

The garden is also home to one of the few swimming pools in the Medina. A calm, relaxing swim (the pool is heated in the cooler months) can be enjoyed from early morning to the approach of nightfall as glowing lanterns and candles are lit, creating a magical atmosphere.

One of L’Hôtel Marrakech’s stand-out features is the roof terrace which offers extraordinary views of the Atlas Mountains and the skyline of Marrakech. Sun loungers are arranged on a raised terrace so that guests can soak up the warmth of the sun. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea can be taken under the pergola while drinks can be sipped amongst the orange blossom and fig trees. Also open in the evening, the terrace’s elevated position makes it the perfect place to unwind after a day’s foray in the souks.

L’Hôtel Marrakech prides itself on its approach to serving delicious traditional Moroccan cooking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be served on your private balcony, the dining room or on the roof terrace. Seasonal local produce is brought to the kitchen daily. Dishes prepared celebrate the subtle aromas and colourful enchantment of Marrakech. Guests can enjoy a vibrant array of salads, fresh vegetables, slow cooked tagines, grilled meat and fish as well as the perfect steak and chips. To complete the meal, there are refreshing sorbets, ice creams and fruits to choose from.

The riad is the perfect place for a group of friends, family or a honeymooning couple. Special events can also be catered for and the hotel is available for private hire.