L'Hôtel Marrakech

"Al Bhaja" was just one the many ancient nicknames given to Marrakech. It means city of peace and open air. A true oasis in the desert filled with gurgling fountains and countless secret gardens hidden within its rose walls. At the heart of the Medina lies a 19th century riad named, L’Hôtel Marrakech.

The riad was once the central part of a Caidal Palace and now houses just 5 suites centered around a lush interior garden dripping with the scent of orange blossom, jasmine and fragrant rose. After a day of navigating the souks come back to take in the views of the Atlas Mountains from the rooftop terrace complete with steaming pots of mint tea and a plate of, “kaab al ghazal”, traditional Moroccan biscuits shaped like gazelle horns. These confections are composed of almond paste, orange blossom water and cinnamon and are frequently served at special occasions.

In the evenings we enjoyed traditional tagine spiced with ginger, turmeric and cinnamon served in earthenware pots next to the glow of a roaring fire in the garden-facing dining room.