A visit to Morocco isn’t complete without trekking the Rif Mountains, High Atlas Mountains, Middle Atlas Mountains, and Anti-Atlas Mountains; hitting the beaches lining both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts; visiting the desert where you can take a camel tour; shopping in Fez, Casablanca, and Tangier; relaxing in a public steam bath; or, dining on local food such as a stew made with local fish, chicken, lamb, and couscous. The top of your list, however, should be to stay in one of these luxury hotels in Morocco.
Villa Joséphine | Tangier
Image: Villa Joséphine
As Tangier is known for straddling two continents, so does Villa Joséphine: Europe and North Africa. Built in the early 1900s by Walter Burton Harris, a correspondent for the London Times, it has a long and storied past. It is set among beautifully maintained gardens which surround a sparkling pool that will make you think you are in Beverly Hills. Known for A-list clientele of artists, designers, and writers, the Villa Joséphine boasts a style of service and pampering the guests who stay in one of its 10 rooms. The rooms range from efficient singles to deluxe suites which all pay homage to the true luxury of Villa Joséphine.
Palais Namaskar | Marrakech
Image: Palais Namaskar
If shopping is your goal, the Palais Namaskar may be just for you. It’s a mere 20-minute drive from the souks of central Marrakech and has the most picturesque Moroccan setting. Drive a few hours to reach the Atlas Mountains which create a lovely backdrop as the Palais Namaskar seemingly appears to rise from the sands. It is a true oasis, as just beyond the gates, you’re definitely in the desert. A walk through the hotel feels like a walk through a movie set with shallow pools that guide you from the reception area to the lobby or to the restaurant; as well as, colonnades of white pillars that guide you through the gardens. There are spots throughout the hotel to escape and find your own peaceful seclusion.
Dar Ahlam | Skoura
Image: Dar Ahlam
For the adventurer in you, a trek to the Dar Ahlam may be in order. You will need a guide to take you to the Dar Ahlam, as it rests deep within the Skoura oasis. This Kasbah building from the 1920s has 18 rooms. Some rooms sit outside in the gardens while others are within the main building. Guides are available to take guests for walks around the oasis as well as to valleys nearby next to rivers where you can take a picnic to thoroughly enjoy your outing. Should you opt to stay in, the Dar Ahlam has a full-service spa with tiled rooms that are simply appointed and focused on the treatment of a soothing massage next to a roaring fire. All the guest rooms are suites (junior, superior, or villa) that are undoubtedly Moroccan, and each has its own fireplace (but no televisions here!).
Whichever type of vacation takes you to Morocco, these three luxury hotels will suit your needs, each in its own way.
