City choice: Marrakesh: Hotel Es Saadi

The Imperial city of Marrakesh in the shadow of the High Atlas Mountains Hustle and bustle or the souks, tranquility of the Majorelle Gardens Family-run, luxury 5-star hotel just 10-mins from the old town

About Marrakesh
Backed by the snow-capped High Atlas mountains, the rose-colored Imperial city of Marrakesh is an enchanting cultural melting pot of storytellers, snake charmers, water sellers, acrobats, carpenters and craftsmen. Visit the colourful Grand Souk, one of Africa’s largest markets, for a genuine insight into how this city operates. But, among hustle and bustle, there are oases of calm and serenity too. Like the beautiful Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, the Menara Pavilion and Yves Saint Laurent’s exotic Majorelle Gardens – a riot of purple bougainvillea, banana trees and swaying palms.

Hotel Es Saadi

The 5-star Hotel Es Saadi, set in gardens bright with orange trees and bougainvillea, is located in the residential area, just a 10-minute taxi ride to the historic old town, the Medina. Still family-run, it prides itself on being a luxury hotel offering personal service. There’s a lovely swimming pool, tennis courts, sauna and gym. There are also two restaurants offering European and Moroccan cuisine respectively, one of which has a pool terrace.