km 9 Route De L'ourika, Marrakech, Morocco | (888) 252-0567
Serene property with olive trees and Atlas Mountain views
Beautiful villas with traditional Moroccan decor and lots of space
Stunning outdoor pool with loungers and extensive views
Restaurant serves Moroccan dishes made-to-order
Driver available for hire through the hotel
Free parking
Hotel only accepts cash, no credit cards
Far from the medina, and taxi fees add up
No free shuttle service from airport and taxis may get lost
Must give at least an hour's notice for restaurant service
Wi-Fi only works in restaurant area
No alcohol served (although guests can bring their own)
No bathtubs in the villas
Les residences du domaine is an upscale property with Atlas Mountain views, and it feels like a quiet oasis removed from the seething masses of Marrakech center. Only 20 minutes from the airport, but difficult to find, the hotel contains 10 spacious villas with stunning, traditional Moroccan decor and kitchenettes (that lack utensils). The peaceful grounds are filled with olive trees, and the hotel has a serene outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving Moroccan cuisine -- but guests must bring their own alcohol. Those wanting a getaway with peaceful sunbathing will find the hotel just the thing, but for more action, travelers may want to look elsewhere. A good alternative could be the Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial, a 10-minute walk from the medina that also offers peaceful poolside lounging.
Scene
A quiet, plush oasis with olive trees and lush lawns, removed from the bustle of the city
The hotel consists of clay-colored villas set amidst green lawns dotted with olive trees, palms, and year-round bougainvillea blossoms. The serene outdoor pool, lined with cushioned loungers and with Atlas Mountain views, makes the hotel a great choice for those who prefer peaceful sunbathing away from the city. The restaurant is dreamy and elegant, with pale yellow and cream curtains parted to allow views of the property. Simple, black tables and chairs with brown cushions are set with white dishes and golden-hued placemats, while wood floors, thick columns, and a wrought-iron chandelier complete the earthy vibe. There are even some tables set outside on the lawn for romantic, alfresco dining. The large private villas are perfect for couples and families, although kids may get bored without any organized activities on offer. Business travelers are likely to find it too far from the city center, and those who want nighttime action may want to look elsewhere. As the hotel is 20 minutes from the medina, it may end up being cheaper to rent a car than to take taxis -- and many taxis aren't familiar with this hotel's location.
Location
A quiet, lush oasis removed from the bustle of the city
Surrounded by agricultural fields and small villages, this hotel is situated in the valley of the Ourika. Suited to those who prefer a quiet haven away from the steamy hustle and bustle of Marrakech center, the hotel is about a 20-minute drive from both the airport and medina, with the Museum of Marrakech. The Agdal Gardens are just under 15 minutes away. The hotel can arrange for tours and excursions, including explorations of the plateau of Kik and rural Berber settings.
Rooms
Large, private villas ideal for romantic couples or families, but kitchenettes aren't for cooking
Les residences du domaine contains villas rather than traditional rooms. Each villa has two-bedrooms, a lounge area with a flat-screen TV and a fireplace, and a small kitchen area with a sink and a mini-fridge -- but no utensils or stovetop. Glass doors open onto stone patios with wrought-iron furniture, with tall hedges for privacy. Decor is Moroccan and colorful, with handcrafted touches, and furniture made of carved wood and iron. Some rooms feel romantic and sophisticated, with red and tangerine textiles against sultry gray walls, while others are more charming, with small woven rugs or pink curtains against white walls. Kitchens have pretty beige tilework and wall-mounted lanterns perched above wood cabinetry. Bathrooms have stand-alone showers with hand-held nozzles, and are decorated with dark walls, bronzed sinks, and dim lighting.
Features
Restaurant serving traditional Moroccan fare, and a pristine swimming pool
The restaurant is menu-less, which means guests are served whatever is fresh and available -- often tagines or other traditional Moroccan dishes requiring advance notice, as preparation can take an hour or more. Half-board options are available, so if guests plan to be out late, they can opt to only have breakfast, which includes pastries or pancakes with honey, jam, mint tea, coffee, and fresh-squeezed orange juice. The large, U-shaped pool contains a shallow area -- which could be better for kids -- and plenty of lounge chairs, though it could use a few more umbrellas. At night, the pool shimmers with lights edging the water. There is free Wi-Fi in the restaurant area, but not the rest of the hotel. Guests are offered welcome drinks (non-alcoholic) and pastries.