La Villa des Orangers

Villa des Orangers is the result of a chance discovery by Pascal and Veronique Beherec. During a short trip to the city, the pair discovered a newly available riad. Already owners of two hotels in Paris, they were inspired to begin a new project in Marrakech. Nine months of restoration efforts, working with local craftsman, revitalised and updated an already majestic building. Now a Relais&Chateux property, the Villa des Orangers is quite simply one of the finest riads to stay in today.

Built in the 1930s by a local judge, the riad is among the grandest, most beautiful buildings that one might see in Marrakech (at least without paying an entrance fee). Within this sublime palace of dizzying carved plasterwork, ornate woodwork and verdant gardens, a modern European hotel experience has been perfectly integrated and mastered.

The food at Villa des Orangers is equally delightful to the surroundings. Although breakfast can be taken anywhere in the hotel, we would highly recommend taking advantage of your private terrace, if you have one during your stay. A simple affair, with a focus on freshness and variety for a bright and refreshing start to the day. Fresh coffee, crisp and sticky pastries, a crystalline fruit compote, and some of the best honeys and jams that we sampled during our trip. And, of course, the orange marmalade – for someone who normally dislikes the substance, it is a revelation.

A light lunch can be likewise taken at your leisure, and pleasure, throughout the hotel. Even if you are a light eater, you may find that lounging in the paradisal courtyard or the around the sparkling garden pool an excellent way to while away the day. With an always attentive staff on hand to offer nourishment and refeshment – or maybe just a mint tea – here one can perfect the art of leisure.

Dining here is a more sumptuous affair, and should really be taken either on your private terrace or in one of the elegant lounges off the main courtyard. There is both an a la carte menu, featuring a most excellent Mediterranean cuisine, and also a daily selection of Moroccan traditional dishes. The latter in particular is wonderful if/when you are tired of rooting through the medina for an authentic experience.

The Spa NUXE is equipped with a traditional Moroccan Hammam as well as three massage cabins and two treatment rooms. Treatments include the famous Huile Prodigieuse® – combining authenticity, sensuality and efficiency; the Sensory Nuxe Massage® range; and many unique practices utilising indigenous flowers and precious plants.