La Sultana Marrakech

How to create a uniquely Moroccan city hotel? Pick a cluster of authentic riads and infuse them with the intimacy and beauty of a traditional Marrakech townhouse, combined with contemporary oriental luxury.

With every step, as we turned into a narrow enclosure surrounded by tall houses, the noise of the busy street behind seemed to recede and subdue. This illusion was undoubtedly enhanced by the prettiness of the La Sultana Marrakech entrance. The buildings converge on the hotel’s large brass gate, polished to a brilliant shine. We could sense the echoes of ancient dynasties and Morocco’s exotic splendor.

Five Riads

We were soon exploring the La Sultana riads, starting from the rooftop terrace. Shaded by white curtains in a comfy gazebo we were welcomed here by Moroccan snacks brought in on a silver tray. Check-in formalities were quickly completed, as we drank the extra-sweet Moroccan mint tea, poured into the traditional glass cups.

Keen on discovering the rest of the hotel, one after another we visited its five riads. Always with a courtyard at the core, each riad has its own identity, atmosphere, and design theme.

Each of the 28 rooms at La Sultana has a different layout and furnishings while reflecting the riad’s particular theme. Exquisite local tiles, handicrafts, and furniture from Europe and Africa bring warmth and character. What they have in common is outstanding craftsmanship that celebrates the country’s artisan traditions.

La Sultana is filled with beautifully carved cedar wood ceilings and beams, intricate stucco, striking tiles and extravagant furnishings that give interiors original themes—without ever veering into cliché.

Panther Room

The most beautiful to our eyes and the last riad we walked into was Riad Bahia, which wowed us with its flooded-with-light courtyard. The riad’s design looks effortless, and the contrast of dark wood set against white stucco walls and columns is brilliant. This is the Riad with the deluxe suites and apartments, and it’s also where we stayed.

Our room had a large salon with a fireplace, bathroom with a marble jacuzzi bath and was decorated with carved cedar panels. The lovely latched windows opened onto a shaded furnished terrace that connected our room with the white courtyard.

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Our favorite places

The courtyard of the neighboring riad is largely taken by a cool swimming pool, with the hotel’s restaurant close by. It’s a lovely place for dinner, especially when softly lit by candlelight. The food is a highlight as well — La Sultana’s French chef created a great menu inspired by Mediterranean and Oriental influences.

From the pool, it’s a quick walk to the spa, a place with a truly beautiful relaxation lounge. Utilizing the original building’s architecture, its aesthetic is calming and elegant, with jade green and oxidized copper set against terracotta walls. The treatment rooms are soundproofed and have extra-wide massage beds.

In the morning, back on the rooftop, we’d munch on La Sultana’s fantastic breakfast, served on blue and white china. The morning meals are sumptuous and rich. Delightful Berber dishes and local pancakes, as well as the sensational homemade yogurt, were our faves.

Kissing our diets goodbye (with a shrug), we’d talk about a day ahead and the exploration of Marrakech. It’s a pleasant walk from the hotel to the Jemaa el-Fnaa, with its snake charmers, food stalls and all the hustle and bustle.

in our opinion

Located right next to the Saadian Tombs—a must-visit attraction in Marrakech—and a short walk from the famous Djemma-el-Fna square, La Sultana Marrakech is a gem of a hotel on the edge of the Medina.

What we love

• La Sultana reminded us that a Marrakech hotel does not have to be about the over-the-top Arabian bling. This boutique hotel has all ingredients of a classic Morocco style, infused with sophisticated luxury
• The style: extravagant at times, but never overdone. Despite the variety of patterns and themes, the interiors are cohesive and uncluttered. The variety of styles and themes creates an atmosphere of a real home, naturally furnished over the years. Still, our favorite was the white Riad Bahia, with its simple, bright design
• The swimming pool: being able to relax in its whirlpool waters was pure bliss, especially after a day of exploring Marrakech
• Rooftop views, to the ancient Tombs of the Saadian Kings on one side and over a small fruit market on the other, with the majestic Atlas Mountains shaping the horizon
• The hotel offers plenty of lovely hangouts and places for a candlelight romantic dinner for two
• The hotel's restaurant is one of the city’s most renowned spots for excellent cuisine
• The La Sultana design is infused with personality and endearing quirks, e.g. in the lavish, safari-themed Elephant Suite, which has bejeweled Indian bedding, fireplace, and beautiful furniture
• We had a lovely time having nighttime drinks on the rooftop terrace. It's a very pretty place
• Irresistible breakfasts! The buffet includes traditional Berber pancakes, almond pastries, and wonderful yogurt—all super delicious
• Good location. It's a walking distance to the museums, palaces and everything else. Yet it feels far enough from the crowds

What you should know

• As the hotel occupies the traditional Moroccan townhouses, most of the rooms are quite dark
• Our room had a small mini-bar with a couple of soft drinks and two bottles of water—quite limited choice, but it was complimentary
• The Jacuzzi in our bath blasted water as if there was no tomorrow and we didn't know how to turn it off. Thankfully, it shut down automatically after a few minutes. Panic over!
• Children are welcome here, but there are no specific facilities for them other than the swimming pool—and they need to be supervised there as the pool has a deep end. Babysitting and children's meals can be arranged upon request
• Getting there: The flight-comparison sites such as Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.com) or Kayak (www.kayak.com) will help you find the best flights and deals.