Domaine des Remparts Hotel & Spa Marrakech: Beyond a Stay
Within the lively city of Marrakech, Domaine des Remparts presents itself as a lush oasis, offering a welcome departure from the routine for those captivated by the city's charm. For a considerable number of Europeans, embarking on a journey to Marrakech has evolved into an annual tradition. It's not uncommon to witness the steady ebb and flow of European tourists, shuttling back and forth throughout the year, seeking refuge in the Moroccan sun for a revitalising weekend infusion of vitamin C. For some, Marrakech becomes more than a destination; it transforms into a home, a goal pursued for years to finally reside in this city.
While we adore the Medina and all its treasures, including its street food and lively scenery, it is a place filled with movement and occasional chaos. Admittedly, navigating the labyrinthine streets can be overwhelming, and we recognise that this might not be the ideal choice for those yearning to decompress during a brief stay in Marrakech.
A Retreat in the Palmeraie
While it may not be the most central location at times, many prefer a hotel just a few kilometres away from the Medina to truly experience a resort destination. In the heart of the Palmeraie, Domaine des Remparts Hotel & Spa is a genuine haven, teeming with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, birds in flight, and, most importantly, a sense of peacefulness. After undergoing significant renovations in recent years, the hotel feels entirely new, having embraced a more luxurious direction with a touch of Moroccan bohemian aesthetics. Every detail, from the lobby to the rooms and the visual identity, has been reimagined by the owner and his wife, resulting in a soothing, well-designed hotel.
Guests are welcomed into a chic yet trendy lobby bathed in natural light. To the left, you'll discover a must-visit and a local favourite – the emerald green designed bar. It's not only the perfect spot to capture an Instagram-worthy picture but also an ideal place to indulge in Domaine des Remparts' deliciously revisited cocktail selection.
Suite Oasis
Upon arrival, guests are introduced to their suite, each boasting a private garden for exclusive enjoyment. This underscores the hotel's central concept: 32 distinct suite rooms that prioritise spaciousness, ensuring guests never feel confined. While the rooms share harmonious design elements, they each offer a unique character with differing furnishings. From diverse headboards to varying flooring and sofas, the intent is to cultivate a distinct ambiance for each room. This approach allows guests to comfortably return, anticipating a fresh interior experience with each visit.
For those seeking an exceptional stay reminiscent of a luxurious tent in the desert, the lodge provides precisely that experience. Slightly set apart from the other rooms, the lodge offers a unique perspective of the hotel. The standout feature is the petite terrace, complete with two lounge chairs—an ideal spot to savour early morning coffee while taking in views of the garden.
Dining at Domaine des Remparts
As the morning unfolds at Domaine des Remparts, guests are treated to an amazing breakfast featuring a variety of homemade products. Wellness at this hotel extends to its culinary offerings, with traditional selections such as msemen, beghrir, and Atay alongside homemade jams, cheeses, local honey, olive oil, granola, and more. From the homemade juices to the warm bread and viennoiserie, every detail is worth trying. The breakfast menu is diverse, but what sets it apart is the emphasis on clean ingredients carefully chosen for a delightful indulgence.
Come lunchtime, the poolside Olive Tree restaurant offers a perfectly designed space with green marble tables, natural-material chairs, and a simple yet fresh menu. Guests enjoying one of the hotel's two pools can enjoy their meals poolside, soaking up the sun. The menu includes items like delicious gravlax salmon, fresh salads, pasta, and grilled meat or fish. Lunch concludes on a sweet note with delectable desserts crafted by the incredible chef.
As night falls, The Tibipt restaurant takes centre stage in a more chic and elevated atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a date night. Here, the refined and incredible taste of the menu shines through. A standout is the Lobster bisque flavoured with argan oil, lobster crumbs, tomato, aromatic herbs of the Atlas, paired with Black risotto with langoustine and Grana Padano Parmesan. To add a unique touch, guests can inform the mixologist of their preferences, allowing him to create a bespoke and never-disappointing drink.
A Retreat for Wellness and Relaxation
The hotel introduces a main pool area with beautiful beach beds, both individual and larger ones adorned with flowing curtains. This layout invites guests to lose track of time and spend the entire day here without hesitation. The second pool area, slightly secluded, is heated for those who prefer that option. Their shared rectangular design, with generous length, allows for a refreshing morning dip or even a training session.
For fitness enthusiasts, Domaine des Remparts has a well-equipped gym with large windows overlooking the outdoors, creating a tranquil setting for wellness activities. The hotel also organises yoga sessions at times, which guests seem to thoroughly enjoy. More than just a typical hotel, Domaine des Remparts functions as a retreat destination, providing a secure space for people from all corners of the world to truly disconnect and focus on their well-being.
To conclude your day on a perfect note, the hotel offers a spa where guests can indulge in an authentic and luxurious private hammam experience, followed by a massage to release all tension.
Beyond a Stay
Having experienced the hotel multiple times, it is evident that clients here become enamoured and return frequently. While it maintains the essence of a hotel, this place transcends that label, feeling like home for many of its returning guests. It's a space where people can casually and comfortably return, knowing that someone is eagerly anticipating their arrival. From the beautifully designed rooms to the diverse food options that change throughout the day, and the sophisticated bar with its elevated menu, Domaine des Remparts offers everything akin to a resort but with a unique touch of personalisation and elegance. Without a doubt, experiencing Marrakech while staying here provides a different perspective on this city, which some may find overwhelming; here, it's a haven of calmness and peacefulness.
Pricing, rating, best for
From 233 euros, 5-star hotel, Romantic stays, family vacations, professional seminars and getaway weekends