Expect fine dining, shady olive-tree lined gardens, sweeping terrace vistas of the Atlas Mountains, beautifully manicured gardens and a whole host of Morrocan tradition when you step inside the 5-star surrounds of Les Cinq Djellabas – a discreet oasis nestled on the outskirts of bustling Marrakech.
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Each of its ten painstakingly traditional thatched-roof lodges are equipped with flat-screens, claw-foot tubs and four-posters, while the property itself includes a celebrated restaurant and African-themed bar, as well as its own ultra-luxe hammam and heated outdoor pool.
The design represents a fusion of aesthetic influences ranging from France to the Philippines, but the dominant theme is unquestionably Saharan, with the materials and furnishings sourced locally.
Created by, Frederic Velissariou, the owner of one of the city’s most famous eateries, the food is of course, exceptional. Expect classic Moroccan flavours with a thoroughly modern edge.
While his first Marrakech venture, Le Foundouk (a must-try on your visit) is humming and labyrinthine, the French entrepreneur and his designer, Thierry Isbnardon, wanted to create a vastly divergent setting for the hotel. And indeed they have. It is all at once serene, airy and light-filled, much like the desert that encircles it.
Arrange a day trip with the hotel’s concierge and be whisked by 4×4 through Berber villages, the Plateau de Kik, the Ourika Valley or Lake Takerkoust with lunch provided. A private driver can also be arranged to take you into the heart of Marrakech in style, while massage treatments and yoga lessons can be easily arranged upon request.
Consider it the perfect retreat after a day experiencing the exotica of this urban playground’s world-famous Medina.
Written by Thea Carley
