Walk along the hectic, dusty Rue de la Kasbah inside Marrakech’s ancient city walls and you might notice something unusual. Amid the frenetic fruit sellers, bustling cafes and market stalls selling wooden snakes is something that seems curiously out-of-place – a man in a bright red bell-boy uniform. This is the only outward sign of a tranquil haven that lies, incredibly, down a small alleyway off this lively central street. An elaborate pair of polished brass doors give way to a small reception full of friendly staff who greet you like family. Open the discreet door to your left and a magical world unfolds in front of you. If you are wondering where to stay in Marrakech, you won’t find a hotel more magical than La Sultana Marrakech.
Glorious tiling on the riad floors at La Sultana Hotel Marrakech. Image © Annie Scott
La Sultana Marrakech
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From the moment you arrive at La Sultana, you know you’re somewhere special. La Sultana Marrakech offers an oasis of peace and luxury in the heart of the historic Medina.
Its tranquillity and superb location make it the perfect venue for a luxury getaway. But, it is the service that makes La Sultana exceptional.
Great hospitality is an important part of Moroccan culture, and the team at La Sultana is the epitome of this. Friendly, warm and unobtrusive; nothing is too much trouble.
The main swimming pool at La Sultana Hotel Marrakech. Image © Annie Scott
The hotel is formed of five riads joined together and lovingly restored, which means plenty of hidden nooks and crannies just aching to be explored.
Lantern-lit corridors and staircases lead you from one riad to the next – each with a slightly different feel. In one, you’ll find a fountain scattered with rose petals, the next a jungle of palms, and in another a grand swimming pool flanked by wooden loungers. Each corner reveals inviting seating areas, velvet sofas, and little unexpected rooms and places to hide, eat or relax.
The décor is opulent, but not kitsch. Jewel-coloured stained glass, lush foliage, intricate tiling and finely carved cedarwood, all lit by beautiful Moroccan lanterns.
The corridor from reception at La Sultana Hotel. Image © Annie Scott
The hotel has endless nooks and crannies to relax in. Image © Annie Scott
The roof terrace is a real highlight. Spanning the entire hotel it is vast, and cleverly divided up into different areas – a solarium, plunge pool, bar and restaurant.
Pink hued stone and palm trees give a classic Moroccan feel, carved wooden canopies provide stylish shaded areas to sit, and the glass roofs over the riad squares add architectural interest.
In cooler months staff appear from nowhere to wrap you in blankets, and in warmer weather, the sun loungers are artfully laid out with towels and fabulous Sultana straw hats.
A riad courtyard – each has a different feel. Image © Annie Scott
Evening dining by the pool at La Sultana Marrakech.
The views from here are spectacular. The vantage point gives you a 360-degree view over Marrakech and the snow-topped Atlas mountains beyond.
Look out over the roofs, hear the call to prayer, watch the storks and drink in a delicious atmosphere.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to Marrakech, Morocco
Luxurious red bedroom at La Sultana Hotel Marrakech. Image © Annie Scott
Jade green tiles act as a beautifully colourful accent in the bathroom. Image © Annie Scott
A masterpiece of a bathroom at La Sultana. Image © Annie Scott
Moroccan Splendour at La Sultana
The hotel boasts 28 rooms decorated in unapologetically Moroccan splendour, each in a different theme. My room, hidden behind an enormous pair of bolted wooden doors, was opulence incarnate.
A huge, comfortable bed, sensuous red walls, intricately carved cedar wood shutters and cupboards made it feel cosy despite its generous size.
A seating area overhung with intricate, almost lace-like wood was a great place to plan my adventures and enjoy the complimentary soft drinks and snacks provided. Sultana branded leather slippers to keep and take home were another lovely touch.
The bathroom was a Moroccan dream. A fantastical jade green concoction of Moroccan tiles, gold hammered metal basins and the most decadent bath I have ever seen – a circular masterpiece under a vaulted ceiling, lit with an extravagantly beaded glass lantern.
A separate shower was also on hand, and generous quantities of Clarins products and scattered rose petals topped off the luxe experience. I could have spent days in there.
Related: 5 Incredible Luxury Hotels That Should be on Your Bucket List
Caeser salad with a flower garnish for lunch. Image © Annie Scott
Food and Drinks at La Sultana
Life at La Sultana is relaxed, thanks to the friendly staff, and food can be brought to you wherever you’re in the mood to eat. Whether you’re lazing on the enormous roof terrace or tucked away with a book in one of the little alcoves off the riad squares, you can enjoy everything from Moroccan mint tea to a delicious meal.
I visited in spring, before the weather was too hot – so morning and evening meals were served inside one of the courtyards by the main swimming pool. Usually open to the elements, in cooler months the area is covered over so you can remain snug while enjoying the riad setting.
The dinner menu is traditional Moroccan fare, although other international dishes were also available. Enjoy rich traditional tagines with melt-in-the-mouth meat, prunes and candied lemons, couscous and vegetables in Moroccan sauces.