Marrakech, one of Morocco 's busiest cities, transforms into a tranquil haven when you step into the Fairmont Royal Palm hotel. Located on the city's outskirts, this desert oasis is the epitome of luxury, with its high-ceilinged lobby, palm-fringed pool, hammam-inspired spa and impressive golf course. The scent of orange blossom fills the air, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Despite having 134 rooms, suites and villas, the resort maintains an exclusive and private feel. It's no surprise that celebrities like Amanda Holden, Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane have chosen to holiday here. Pop star Jason Derulo even filmed a music video in one of the villas, taking advantage of the stunning backdrop.
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Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech)The rooms at Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech
We were fortunate enough to stay in a Deluxe Suite Garden View room, beautifully decorated with Moucharabieh screens, vibrant rugs and Moroccan artwork. The spacious room featured a large dressing area and a luxurious king-size bed. However, the highlight was the bathroom, boasting double sinks, a sunken marble bath and a powerful waterfall shower adorned with shimmering bronze tiles, reports OK!.
The outdoor area has two patios with breathtaking views of the mountains and lush greenery. I highly recommend waking up early to witness the sunrise – there's nothing quite like watching the sun slowly rise over the mountain peaks, casting a shimmering light through the palm leaves.
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Alan Keohane www.still-images.net)The spa at Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech
The Fairmont spa is a haven of wellness, offering a range of relaxing treatments from deep tissue massages to facials and manicures. We indulged in a private hammam, a 60-minute ritual of pure bliss that included a hair wash, scalp massage and an intense body scrub using divine products from Natura Bissé and local beauty brand marocMaroc.
The spa facilities are top-notch, featuring an indoor pool, juice bar, hot tub and sunny garden. If you fancy a dip, the hotel's outdoor pool, the largest in Marrakech, is perfect for a refreshing swim.
Another serene spot is the organic farm, nestled among olive and orange trees, it's one of the most peaceful places at the resort. You'll also find a vegetable garden and some adorable tortoises to admire.
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Design Photo Home)Activities at Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech
There's plenty to keep you busy at the Fairmont. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the expansive 18-hole golf course spread across 75 hectares. If golf isn't your thing, there are four tennis courts, a squash court and a fitness room packed with gym equipment to get your heart racing.
We indulged in a taster padel session with an incredibly patient coach and signed up for an early morning yoga class. Guests can also explore the entire property on a leisurely bike ride – you just follow the olive tree-lined paths throughout the resort.
The food at Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech
There are so many food options at Fairmont, offering cuisine from all around the world. The breakfast buffet offers everything from fresh fruit and pastries to msemen, a traditional Moroccan flatbread that can be sweet or savoury. In the warm evenings, Al Aïn is a heavenly place to enjoy dinner outside. Here we tried a selection of Lebanese dishes with a Moroccan twist, including the flaming kebabs, which were a true showstopper.
In Capricci, the Italian restaurant, we tasted the beef carpaccio and Moroccan-style risotto, which were firm favourites, while the views at Le Sabra, located at the golf club, are unbeatable. It's a more relaxed vibe and perfect for lunch.
The sushi at Le Bar was incredible, including crispy crab rolls, bao buns and stuffed gyoza. And if you fancy a cocktail with a bit of flair, choose a tipple from the 'smoked' selection.
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aabidvisuel)What to do in Marrakech
The bustling Marrakech medina is a must-visit and it's easy to get to using the hotel's shuttle bus that runs every two hours and only takes 20 minutes. In the old town, our informative tour took us to the stunning 18th century palace-turned-museum Dar El Bacha.
Be warned, the market can get extremely crowded. If you're looking to purchase a memento of your trip, be ready to haggle with the sellers – and don't shy away from playing hard ball!
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Getty Images/iStockphoto)How much does it cost to stay at Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech?
Prices at Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech begin from £390 per night for bed and breakfast. For further details and to book, visit the website or email the hotel at marrakech@fairmont.com.
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