It’s been a long, hot, jam-packed full day of sightseeing in Marrakech. We’ve got that post-mooching-around-the-Medina high; our senses overstimulated by the feast of exotic sights, sounds, smells and of course, all the shopping that the world-famous indoor market Jemaa el-Fnaa has to offer.
As we excitedly compare our bartered-down bargains and marvel over our delicious lunch on a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, our cab whizzes through the crowded, winding streets, dodging TukTuks, food sellers and horse-drawn carriages. We are grateful – and admittedly a little smug – to know that The Oberoi, our luxurious oasis of calm and tranquility awaits for us, just 30 minutes from the heart of the city.
I’ve been to Marrakech four times now and each time I discover more about this incredible place – and leave with a suitcase heaving with shopping. Marrakech really is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway, being only a four hour flight from the UK, especially in the cooler months such as spring and autumn, when temperatures tend to stick in the mid-twenties. I’ve even been for Christmas and the weather during the day was perfect for lounging by the pool. In the past, I’ve always stayed in the beating heart of the city, but to get out into the countryside underneath the majestic Atlas mountains for a 3 day stay at The Oberoi proved to be the perfect foil to the hectic pace of the Medina.
Alan Keohane
Who is the Oberoi Marrakech for?
It’s undeniably a very romantic destination. Indeed, The Oberoi has become one of the most highly sought after wedding venues in Marrakech, due to its spectacular location, incredible space, amenities and the impeccable service and luxury Oberoi is known for worldwide. There’s even an in-house team of wedding planners to help with every detail and the option to ‘buy-out’ the entire property for your special occasion. The tranquility of the location – nestled amidst 28 acres of lush gardens, fragrant citrus orchards and centuries-old olive groves – makes staying there feel intimate, despite the very grand, impressive architecture and 84 rooms and suites. And I really do mean grand. The resort, which used to be an olive farm and still has over 2,500 olive trees, opened in 2019, took 10 years to build and comprises some stunning architectural features such as the vast inner sanctum marble courtyard. The entrance to the hotel features a grand black basin that at night has giant flames floating in the water – it really does make a magnificent and dramatic atmosphere. The Oberoi is also a lovely getaway for friends and families as well and would make a perfect girls weekend away or if you’re traveling with little ones, there is a fantastic creche service on offer.