Jnane Tamsna

With its lush gardens filled with palm trees and leafy tropical plants, and gorgeous interiors blending traditional Moroccan rugs and lanterns with subdued modern furniture, the Jnane Tamsna offers a decidedly chic and blissfully serene departure from the often over-the-top resorts in Marrakech. As such, it draws a wide array of travelers; everyone from families to honeymooners to people getting married (which can be done on-site) to yoga retreaters to business-people and celebrities flock here for the unique atmosphere and array of activities. In addition to laying out poolside -- there are five on the property, each lined with elegant white sun-loungers -- guests can schedule things like yoga sessions, massages, cooking classes, and tennis lessons. All of this contributes to the sort of laid back though stimulating mood that draws many guests back for repeat visits. Long, sandy pathways around the nine-acre oasis present opportunities for casual strolls. Sometimes the hotel is so quiet it can be eerie, but at other times of the year there is plenty of company. 

Jnane Tamsna occupies a protected palm grove in a quiet area dotted with other resorts. Guests come for the seclusion and serenity, so those seeking easy access to the city may find the 20- to 25-minute drive there frustrating. The Marrakech Airport is about 25 to 40 minutes away, depending on traffic. Golf Club Palmeraie is about 10 minutes' drive, and there's a hammam within five minutes' drive -- the hotel will arrange for transportation throughout the day, though some guests find it pricier than average. 

The main house, Jnane House, has six bedrooms arranged around a garden and four more set across from a rooftop terrace. Two private rooms occupy Dar Ylane, a separate house nearby. The impressive decor is primarily traditional Marrakech, flecked with Oriental inspiration, though some rooms need some touching up as they're a bit worn. Jnane Moussafir contains five themed suites -- Casablanca, for example -- with garden views, fireplaces, walk-in closets, and bathrooms with separate tubs and showers; TVs and DVD players are available on request. Suites have different size beds, and there are two suited to families with a shared veranda. Suite decor feels modern but there are traditional touches, like carved molding and doors, bright red tapestries, shag rugs, and metal lanterns, while huge windows allow in bright Northern African sunlight. The most luxurious and private experience is offered by the Jnane Villa, which has a private swimming pool surrounded by olive trees, five bedrooms, a dining room, a breakfast room, a library, and veranda.

The well-designed grounds are a big draw here: elements of traditional Moroccan style and color combine with Oriental flourishes for an exotic yet minimalist approach. There are plenty of lovely gardens filled with herbs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables, much of which is used for organic, authentic Moroccan and Mediterranean fusion dishes served in the hotel's restaurant. Guests can dine outside below the palm trees, but should know that menus are set -- an attempt to evoke the feeling of dining at a friend's house. There are also a range of activities available on-site, such as cooking classes, tennis lessons, and yoga. The hotel can arrange for camel rides and horseback riding, schedule golf games and hammam treatments nearby, and organize dance parties on-site. Of the five swimming pools, only two are consistently heated.