Hotel Buzz: Royal Mansour Marrakech Now Open

June 16, 2010 By: Mary Winston Nicklin

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After a series of delays, Royal Mansour—the pet project of King Mohammed VI who’s pushing an aggressive tourism strategy for Morocco—has opened its doors. Situated directly within the medina walls of old Marrakech, the long-awaited hotel began accepting visitors at the beginning of June 2010. Guests will certainly get the royal treatment at the king’s hotel; Royal Mansour oozes luxury—from the black marble driveway leading to the entrance to the staff of 400 who attend to guests’ every whim. Sprawling over eight acres dotted with palm and olive trees, the hotel is comprised of 53 individual riads, each handcrafted with ceramic tile, elaborate woodwork, and Moroccan mosaics by top local craftsmen. From rooftop terraces, guests can lounge on sun beds or in the private pools while taking in views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains.

For an over-the-top luxury experience, book the regal Riad d’Honneur, the four-bedroom riad that boasts its own office, pool, home theater, gym and traditional hammam.

What else is in store for guests? Three restaurants orchestrated by Michelin three-star chef Yannick Alléno, whose cuisine at Le Meurice in Paris gets tongues wagging. Also on site: A large Moroccan spa with gym facilities and an indoor pool.

The property is hailed as the “crown jewel” for King Mohammed’s “Vision 2010,” an initiative to attract 10 million visitors to the country this year and secure Morocco as a luxury travel destination of choice. (And as we’ve previously reported, myriad hotel openings are fulfilling this royal vision.)

Rates for a full individual riad start from $1,850 per night.