The La Mamounia in Marrakech, former palace of a crown prince of Morocco, converted into a hotel by the French in 1923, is one of Morocco’s most famous hotels.
During the romantic era of early travel, it was not just an hotel but a way of life. Ex-pats, colonial rulers and adventurers would lazily sip Scotch in the hotel’s well-watered gardens. In post-war years it was a favourite haunt of Winston Churchill who painted from his balcony, which he declared the `loveliest spot on earth’.
Despite numerous refits it managed to preserve its charm and still retains gorgeous period detailing and is undeniably glamorous. The most recent (2006-2009) renovation by French Designer Jacques Garcia kept the essence, flavour and architecture of the historical Mamounia.
Four restaurants: Le Morocain serving local food, Le Francais (Jean-Pierre Vigato), Don Alfonso’s L’Italien, and Le Pavillion by the poolside. Four bars are complemented by a Patissier/Glacier.
(Source: mamounia.com)
