Quintessence of Moroccan decorative arts, secrets of Arab-Andalusian architecture, La Mamounia, just reimagined at the dawn of its 100th anniversary, is without a doubt one of the most beautiful hotels in the world.
The pitch | Refinement, luxury and tradition Celebrated throughout the world as one of the most remarkable palaces there is, La Mamounia is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Hitchcock filmed a few scenes from “The Man Who Knew Too Much” there, Martin Scorsese, the Rolling Stones, Charlie Chaplin and Elton John, Jean-Paul Gaultier took up residence there… For a century, La Mamounia has persisted as the symbol of luxury and Moroccan tradition, one of the most beautiful hotels in Marrakech in the heart of the Medina. An anniversary for which the best architects of the moment have been invited, the world’s aces in gastronomy in a Garden of Eden in the heart of the red city.
What is the hotel like? La Mamounia is the legendary palace of Marrakech. The art of living there is of ultimate refinement, seems to tell the story of this eight-hectare garden backed by the city walls from the 18th century: The construction of a first pavilion, a palace then a hotel finally, traditionally reserved for long stays, where Churchill liked to winter and paint. A grace which, over the years and renovations, has remained intact. The duo of architects Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku brought a touch of happy modernity and serene energy to mark the centenary. A journey to the land of the Orient, from the reception to the lounges where Moroccan art, moucharabiehs and marble fountains, chiseled plasterwork and sculpted cedar ceilings punctuate the enchanted walk towards a garden of the Thousand and One Nights. The swimming pool is huge and private, only residents of Mamounia have access to it, unlike other luxury hotels in the city. The fitness room has nothing to envy as it is large and well equipped, the coaches are intentional. The two clay tennis courts look brand new.
As for the taste buds, epicureans are in heaven. We swoon, at the great Moroccan restaurant, over an essential lobster pastilla, royal couscous or these recipes which make up the secrets of a reinvented local cuisine: “couscous with 3 fish and green vegetables”, “roasted turbot, ras-el-hanout butter”… At “L’Asiatique”, Jean-Georges Vongeritchen, a three-star chef in the USA, offers cuisine from South-East Asia to the borders of Japan. The salmon sushi with crispy rice are as fine as those he offers at Shinmonzen in Kyoto and the bluefin tuna tartare always has a perfect and slightly spicy seasoning. At the Italian restaurant, Jean-Georges offers on a tree-lined terrace with a view of the swimming pool and the gardens all the flavors that the boot can offer in a luxury trattoria. Add to this Pierre Hermé’s Tea Room, his creations (the « gazelle horn » specially created for the hotel is to die for) both savory and sweet, his gourmet snacks served at the Pavillon de la Piscine, the Churchill bar just revamped, its 90 champagnes, the wine library and its 2000 exceptional bottles, and you have a small idea of what paradise can look like. look like.
source: yonder.fr
