Marrakech, that captivating, romantic and enchantingly ancient Moroccan city, is well known for its narrow alleyways, souks and bustling old-world charm.
But for travellers seeking a little more space, seclusion and serenity, a short drive out of the city uncovers an altogether more tranquil world.
Spread gracefully across 231 hectares of palm groves, olive trees, reflective ponds and manicured fairways, overlooked by the majestic Atlas Mountains, Royal Palm Marrakech – which is part of the luxury Mauritian chain Beachcomber and a member of the Leading Hotels of the World – provides an exclusive refuge from the stresses and strains of daily life; a place to unwind and unburden oneself from work and routine.
This sense of privacy and separation is achieved instantly; the long, palm-lined driveway escorts guests from the outside world and into the welcoming embrace of the resort – a retreat into a new Eden; a verdant oasis of calm and tranquillity. From here on in, the only complication is deciding which activity to try first.
The list of facilities at the Royal Palm is hugely impressive; the 18-hole golf course is the most visible (it is the only golf course in Marrakech to be set within the grounds of a hotel), but an array of other options lie nestled amongst the palms. Four red clay tennis courts, two mini courts, a squash court, 2,000m² heated swimming pool, table tennis, fitness centre, yoga and pilates studio and a boxing gym are all available, and come included in the room rate.
Alternatively, guests seeking a little less exertion can relax in the Clarins spa, which covers 3,500m² spa and features 14 treatment rooms (for couples and singles), hammams, hair and beauty salon, and relaxation pre- or post-treatment pool.
But what do parents do with the little ones while they’re enjoying all these activities? Well, the kids’ club is a little more than extensive than the term usually implies; this separate compound is more like a professional day care centre and features a wealth of indoor and outdoor activities for children aged between three to 12. Far from being bored, kids are unlikely to want to leave when their parents pick them up.
And at the end of the day’s activities, families can regroup and enjoy dinner at a choice of restaurants, including Moroccan, Mediterranean and international options.
This is the real beauty of the Royal Palm; the fact that it is so perfectly positioned for the family market, as well as being a retreat for couples and adult group getaways. As a short-haul retreat for European travellers, it is able to cater for the school holiday market – including short half-term breaks – as well as longer luxury holidays.
This is evidenced by the resort’s collection of rooms, suites and villas, which come in a selection of styles and range from a generous 72m² to an indulgent 741m². The lead-in deluxe rooms can accommodate a couple and one child, while the suites open up options for families with up to four kids. And whatever room type is chosen, all guests are offered large private terraces that overlook the golf course, gardens and Atlas Mountains. For the ultimate luxury, the Prince Villa features two bedrooms, a private courtyard and even its own heated outdoor pool.
While the enhancing labyrinth of old Marrakech (which, it should be mentioned, is just a short ride away by free shuttle bus) is undoubtedly alluring, Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury Marrakech creates the perfect counter-balance – a world of space, serenity and sublime luxury. For travellers seeking to escape into a personal paradise, the Royal Palm provides everything under the sun.
BOOK THE ROYAL PALM MARRAKECH
www.beachcomber-hotels.com/hotel/royal-palm-marrakech
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