The Grande Dame Hotel Review: La Mamounia, Marrakech, Morocco
Luxury Reviews Says 8/10
La Mamounia, Marrakech: Is This Iconic Palace the Pinnacle of Luxury—Or Just a Very Beautiful Mirage?
The Hotel
As with all ultra-luxury stays, it’s worth booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor. I usePropeller Travel. Perks often include upgrades, resort credit, and breakfast for two.
La Mamounia’s story begins in the 18th century, when a Moroccan Sultan gifted the estate to his son as a wedding present—a gesture that set the tone for centuries of extravagant hospitality. Today, it remains one of the world’s most iconic hotels, where history, design, and service unfold with cinematic grandeur.
The lobby alone is a study in legacy: Winston Churchill sketched here, Alfred Hitchcock found inspiration here, and King Charles III has been a guest. The atmosphere is opulent without being overwrought—more storied palace than museum, and none the worse for it.
Step into the gardens and you’re met with twenty acres of serene, meticulously maintained greenery. A team of seventy tend to the estate’s olive trees, towering palms, orange blossoms, and fountains with near ceremonial care. Though the Medina is just a short stroll away, within these walls, it all feels reassuringly distant.
The First Impression 10/10
La Mamounia offers airport transfers in a high specification Range Rover—because, of course it does. After navigating the lively streets of Marrakech, you arrive at a discreet gated entrance where the mood shifts instantly. Uniformed staff appear as if on cue to collect your luggage and usher you past security with barely a pause.
Outside, a small crowd of hopeful tourists lingered at the gate, angling for a glimpse inside. Their access was politely—but firmly—denied. One or two looked positively scandalised. And frankly, that only made the arrival feel more exclusive.
We were guided past the reception desk and invited to take a seat on the sumptuous red velvet sofas just beyond. As credit card details were discreetly taken, a tray arrived with almond-flavoured milk and dates—an elegant welcome that quietly sets the tone for the stay ahead.
The Vibe and Who are You Likely to See There?
This is old-world luxury with a North African soul—dim lighting, wood-panelled ceilings, and generous helpings of velvet, gold, and burnt orange. The original Moorish residence was transformed in the 1920s into an Art Deco sanctuary, and subsequent updates have layered on hints of 1970s glamour and more contemporary polish. The crowd? Think rich American families and impeccably preserved French high society—here to escape the cameras and recover, discreetly, from their latest face lift.
The Rooms 8/10
La Mamounia offers 135 rooms, 71 suites, and 3 private riads—all rich in Moroccan flair and undeniably luxurious. These aren’t your polished-but-forgettable chain hotel rooms. Each space blends intricate local design with modern comforts, delivering real character and a sense of place. From mosaic-tiled bathrooms to carved woodwork and plush fabrics, no two rooms feel the same—and that’s entirely the point.
Luxury Reviews stayed in an entry-level room. If you value outdoor space or a view of the gardens and city, I’d steer clear—these rooms tend to feel a bit boxed in and miss out on the best of La Mamounia’s scenery.
La Mamounia offers a variety of rooms and suites to suit different tastes and budgets. It’s worth booking through a Virtuoso agent like Propeller Travel—they know the property and can often secure upgrades, dining credits, or breakfast. Little extras that make a noticeable difference without the fuss.
Rooms come with high-end touches like Porthault bed linens, plush bathrobes, and slippers. You’ll find a Nespresso machine, plenty of bottled water, plus dates and chocolate cake—kept topped up regularly.
Huge TVs offer global channels and built-in streaming apps—definitely a step up from Winston Churchill’s era. Wireless charging pads and reliable Wi-Fi are modern essentials, too.
The Facilities 9/10
There’s a well-equipped fitness centre with calming garden views, and two pristine clay tennis courts if you’re feeling energetic—or simply want to channel your inner royal on holiday.
The twenty acres of gardens deserve more than a passing stroll—especially after a long lunch or indulgent dinner. Fragrant with orange blossom and lined with olive trees, the grounds have drawn artists for generations. The light shifts throughout the day, casting new moods over every pathway, fountain and bloom. No two walks feel quite the same—and that’s precisely the magic.
A small private cinema tucked just off the lobby screens films twice daily. It’s an unexpectedly cosy hideaway, with plush seating and an old-world feel—perfect for an afternoon escape from the sun or a post-dinner wind-down that feels a world away from your usual hotel amenities.
La Mamounia Spa is the kind of place that makes an impression. Think vaulted ceilings, flickering lanterns, and the scent of orange blossom hanging in the air. The facilities include both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, traditional hammams, and a Jacuzzi set in one of the most ornate corners of the hotel. This section is open to all guests and well worth carving out time to enjoy—it’s indulgence on a cinematic scale.
That said, Luxury Reviews’ experience with the spa treatments themselves was less impressive. Service lacked the polish expected at this level, and small oversights—timing, attentiveness, and overall flow—detracted from what should have been a highlight. It’s a reminder that even the grandest spas must deliver substance as well as style.
The spa was, regrettably, the only part of La Mamounia where service fell well below expectations. It was not just inattentive—it bordered on rude. We were left waiting in the indoor pool area for our scheduled appointment, only to realise we had been entirely forgotten. When we approached the reception desk, there was no apology—just a hurried ushering through registration and the changing rooms, before being deposited in a treatment room with no ceremony.
At no point did the experience feel relaxing. Despite being on time, we were treated as though we were the ones at fault. The atmosphere was rushed, impersonal, and entirely out of step with the otherwise exceptional hospitality found throughout the rest of the hotel. It was a sharp—and unfortunate—contrast to the serenity the spa promises.
The Service 9/10
With the notable exception of the spa, service throughout La Mamounia was exceptional—friendly, warm, and utterly polished. Smiles are generously offered here, not rehearsed, and the welcome feels genuinely personal.
On returning to the bar on the second day of the stay, I was greeted by name before I even reached the host stand. Without hesitation, I was led to the same table I had favoured the day before. Given the volume of well-heeled guests passing through this storied lounge, that level of attentiveness was quietly remarkable—and deeply appreciated.
Service at La Mamounia is unobtrusive and discreet, delivered with the ease of a well-practised ritual. Everything unfolds at a considered, unhurried pace—as if time itself has decided to take a holiday. There’s no need to rush here. The outside world can wait while you’re cocooned in effortless, old-world indulgence.
When I raised my concerns with the spa manager, the response was surprisingly defensive—my experience was, I was told, simply my perspective. At this level, that felt dismissive. Rather than addressing the issue quietly, the situation escalated into an uncomfortable discussion in the lobby. It was an unnecessarily sour note in an otherwise polished stay.
The Dining 9/10
Breakfast is served buffet-style at Le Pavillon de la Piscine, a dedicated pavilion overlooking the hotel’s grand pool—an undeniably elegant setting to begin the day. Alongside the usual array of high-quality breakfast staples, à la carte options include Moroccan pancakes and a warmly spiced egg tagine. Traditional tea is poured with theatrical flair, adding a touch of ceremony to your morning. For something lighter, Le Salon de Thé in the gardens offers a more serene, pared-back start.
Lunch is available buffet-style at the poolside pavilion, with additional à la carte options offered across the hotel’s other restaurants. Whether you’re grazing between swims or settling in for something more refined, there’s no shortage of choice.
The bars are a standout feature of La Mamounia and easily among the highlights of any stay. Le Bar Majorelle buzzes in the evening with a live jazz trio and a crowd that’s equal parts glamorous and intriguing—ideal for discreet people watching over a finely mixed Negroni. For something more intimate, slip into The Churchill Bar, a dimly lit homage to the man himself, styled like an old train carriage with rich wood paneling and vintage detailing. All the bars offer an extensive cocktail and wine list, and the accompanying nuts and olives are far too elegant to be called bar snacks.
Le Bar Majorelle occupies the hotel’s elegant front terrace and becomes a lively lunch spot. Visiting tourists often pause here for a drink or light bite, gazing over the manicured gardens that feel more English country home than North African oasis. People-watching is half the appeal—though at these prices, you’d be forgiven for expecting your Perrier to come with a foot massage and a handwritten note from Yves Saint Laurent.
For dinner, the hotel offers Italian, Asian, and traditional Moroccan options. The Italian restaurant, L’Italien, and the Pan-Asian L’Asiatique are both led by highly regarded culinary teams bringing expertise and innovation to their menus. Both are housed within the main building, where service was excellent and the food confidently above average.
But it’s Le Marocain that steals the show. Set in its own ornate pavilion in the gardens, this is destination dining at its most cinematic. The lantern-lit walk, the live music, the atmosphere—it ranks among my all-time favourite restaurant settings. A pity, then, that the food didn’t quite rise to the occasion. Still, when the stage is this spectacular, you’re almost willing to forgive a slightly under-seasoned tagine.
The Attention To Detail
In design alone, the attention to detail is extraordinary. This isn’t the kind of place you visit to scroll Instagram—if anything, your phone becomes an unwelcome distraction. Look up: the ceilings alone deserve admiration. Intricate, hand-crafted, and steeped in history, they’re a tribute to the generations of artisans who helped shape this iconic property.
The Churchill Bar is a masterclass in detail-driven design. The bar top itself is a clever tribute—modelled on Winston’s signature Homburg hat, turned upside down. It feels both playful and opulent, perfectly in step with the hotel’s storytelling style.
In true La Mamounia fashion, even the ice cubes are elevated. Made from mineral water, they’re a small but telling detail—one of only two hotels in Marrakech to do so. It’s a quiet nod to refinement, where even the frozen water in your Negroni gets the five-star treatment.
Surprisingly, the sun loungers fall short of the otherwise impeccable standards. Covered only by a towel, they quickly become uncomfortable—more frame than cushion. It’s a small detail, but an important one in a hotel where relaxation is the main event. Proper padded covers would make all the difference.
The Good, Bad & Ugly
Worth It? Yes. A reassuringly expensive and truly unique experience—just don’t test their tolerance for constructive criticism.
Stay Here for a luxurious, tranquil escape in opulent surroundings—steeped in history and character, with (mostly) impeccable service to match.
Don’t Stay Here For comfortable pool lounging, sleek modern furnishings, or cutting-edge design. This is a step back to the 1920s and ’70s—reimagined with a contemporary twist on classic decadence.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Luxury Reviews Says 8/10
La Mamounia, Marrakech: Is This Iconic Palace the Pinnacle of Luxury—Or Just a Very Beautiful Mirage?
The Hotel
As with all ultra-luxury stays, it’s worth booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor. I usePropeller Travel. Perks often include upgrades, resort credit, and breakfast for two.
La Mamounia’s story begins in the 18th century, when a Moroccan Sultan gifted the estate to his son as a wedding present—a gesture that set the tone for centuries of extravagant hospitality. Today, it remains one of the world’s most iconic hotels, where history, design, and service unfold with cinematic grandeur.
The lobby alone is a study in legacy: Winston Churchill sketched here, Alfred Hitchcock found inspiration here, and King Charles III has been a guest. The atmosphere is opulent without being overwrought—more storied palace than museum, and none the worse for it.
Step into the gardens and you’re met with twenty acres of serene, meticulously maintained greenery. A team of seventy tend to the estate’s olive trees, towering palms, orange blossoms, and fountains with near ceremonial care. Though the Medina is just a short stroll away, within these walls, it all feels reassuringly distant.
The First Impression 10/10
La Mamounia offers airport transfers in a high specification Range Rover—because, of course it does. After navigating the lively streets of Marrakech, you arrive at a discreet gated entrance where the mood shifts instantly. Uniformed staff appear as if on cue to collect your luggage and usher you past security with barely a pause.
Outside, a small crowd of hopeful tourists lingered at the gate, angling for a glimpse inside. Their access was politely—but firmly—denied. One or two looked positively scandalised. And frankly, that only made the arrival feel more exclusive.
We were guided past the reception desk and invited to take a seat on the sumptuous red velvet sofas just beyond. As credit card details were discreetly taken, a tray arrived with almond-flavoured milk and dates—an elegant welcome that quietly sets the tone for the stay ahead.
The Vibe and Who are You Likely to See There?
This is old-world luxury with a North African soul—dim lighting, wood-panelled ceilings, and generous helpings of velvet, gold, and burnt orange. The original Moorish residence was transformed in the 1920s into an Art Deco sanctuary, and subsequent updates have layered on hints of 1970s glamour and more contemporary polish. The crowd? Think rich American families and impeccably preserved French high society—here to escape the cameras and recover, discreetly, from their latest face lift.
The Rooms 8/10
La Mamounia offers 135 rooms, 71 suites, and 3 private riads—all rich in Moroccan flair and undeniably luxurious. These aren’t your polished-but-forgettable chain hotel rooms. Each space blends intricate local design with modern comforts, delivering real character and a sense of place. From mosaic-tiled bathrooms to carved woodwork and plush fabrics, no two rooms feel the same—and that’s entirely the point.
Luxury Reviews stayed in an entry-level room. If you value outdoor space or a view of the gardens and city, I’d steer clear—these rooms tend to feel a bit boxed in and miss out on the best of La Mamounia’s scenery.
La Mamounia offers a variety of rooms and suites to suit different tastes and budgets. It’s worth booking through a Virtuoso agent like Propeller Travel—they know the property and can often secure upgrades, dining credits, or breakfast. Little extras that make a noticeable difference without the fuss.
Rooms come with high-end touches like Porthault bed linens, plush bathrobes, and slippers. You’ll find a Nespresso machine, plenty of bottled water, plus dates and chocolate cake—kept topped up regularly.
Huge TVs offer global channels and built-in streaming apps—definitely a step up from Winston Churchill’s era. Wireless charging pads and reliable Wi-Fi are modern essentials, too.
The Facilities 9/10
There’s a well-equipped fitness centre with calming garden views, and two pristine clay tennis courts if you’re feeling energetic—or simply want to channel your inner royal on holiday.
The twenty acres of gardens deserve more than a passing stroll—especially after a long lunch or indulgent dinner. Fragrant with orange blossom and lined with olive trees, the grounds have drawn artists for generations. The light shifts throughout the day, casting new moods over every pathway, fountain and bloom. No two walks feel quite the same—and that’s precisely the magic.
A small private cinema tucked just off the lobby screens films twice daily. It’s an unexpectedly cosy hideaway, with plush seating and an old-world feel—perfect for an afternoon escape from the sun or a post-dinner wind-down that feels a world away from your usual hotel amenities.
La Mamounia Spa is the kind of place that makes an impression. Think vaulted ceilings, flickering lanterns, and the scent of orange blossom hanging in the air. The facilities include both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, traditional hammams, and a Jacuzzi set in one of the most ornate corners of the hotel. This section is open to all guests and well worth carving out time to enjoy—it’s indulgence on a cinematic scale.
That said, Luxury Reviews’ experience with the spa treatments themselves was less impressive. Service lacked the polish expected at this level, and small oversights—timing, attentiveness, and overall flow—detracted from what should have been a highlight. It’s a reminder that even the grandest spas must deliver substance as well as style.
The spa was, regrettably, the only part of La Mamounia where service fell well below expectations. It was not just inattentive—it bordered on rude. We were left waiting in the indoor pool area for our scheduled appointment, only to realise we had been entirely forgotten. When we approached the reception desk, there was no apology—just a hurried ushering through registration and the changing rooms, before being deposited in a treatment room with no ceremony.
At no point did the experience feel relaxing. Despite being on time, we were treated as though we were the ones at fault. The atmosphere was rushed, impersonal, and entirely out of step with the otherwise exceptional hospitality found throughout the rest of the hotel. It was a sharp—and unfortunate—contrast to the serenity the spa promises.
The Service 9/10
With the notable exception of the spa, service throughout La Mamounia was exceptional—friendly, warm, and utterly polished. Smiles are generously offered here, not rehearsed, and the welcome feels genuinely personal.
On returning to the bar on the second day of the stay, I was greeted by name before I even reached the host stand. Without hesitation, I was led to the same table I had favoured the day before. Given the volume of well-heeled guests passing through this storied lounge, that level of attentiveness was quietly remarkable—and deeply appreciated.
Service at La Mamounia is unobtrusive and discreet, delivered with the ease of a well-practised ritual. Everything unfolds at a considered, unhurried pace—as if time itself has decided to take a holiday. There’s no need to rush here. The outside world can wait while you’re cocooned in effortless, old-world indulgence.
When I raised my concerns with the spa manager, the response was surprisingly defensive—my experience was, I was told, simply my perspective. At this level, that felt dismissive. Rather than addressing the issue quietly, the situation escalated into an uncomfortable discussion in the lobby. It was an unnecessarily sour note in an otherwise polished stay.
The Dining 9/10
Breakfast is served buffet-style at Le Pavillon de la Piscine, a dedicated pavilion overlooking the hotel’s grand pool—an undeniably elegant setting to begin the day. Alongside the usual array of high-quality breakfast staples, à la carte options include Moroccan pancakes and a warmly spiced egg tagine. Traditional tea is poured with theatrical flair, adding a touch of ceremony to your morning. For something lighter, Le Salon de Thé in the gardens offers a more serene, pared-back start.
Lunch is available buffet-style at the poolside pavilion, with additional à la carte options offered across the hotel’s other restaurants. Whether you’re grazing between swims or settling in for something more refined, there’s no shortage of choice.
The bars are a standout feature of La Mamounia and easily among the highlights of any stay. Le Bar Majorelle buzzes in the evening with a live jazz trio and a crowd that’s equal parts glamorous and intriguing—ideal for discreet people watching over a finely mixed Negroni. For something more intimate, slip into The Churchill Bar, a dimly lit homage to the man himself, styled like an old train carriage with rich wood paneling and vintage detailing. All the bars offer an extensive cocktail and wine list, and the accompanying nuts and olives are far too elegant to be called bar snacks.
Le Bar Majorelle occupies the hotel’s elegant front terrace and becomes a lively lunch spot. Visiting tourists often pause here for a drink or light bite, gazing over the manicured gardens that feel more English country home than North African oasis. People-watching is half the appeal—though at these prices, you’d be forgiven for expecting your Perrier to come with a foot massage and a handwritten note from Yves Saint Laurent.
For dinner, the hotel offers Italian, Asian, and traditional Moroccan options. The Italian restaurant, L’Italien, and the Pan-Asian L’Asiatique are both led by highly regarded culinary teams bringing expertise and innovation to their menus. Both are housed within the main building, where service was excellent and the food confidently above average.
But it’s Le Marocain that steals the show. Set in its own ornate pavilion in the gardens, this is destination dining at its most cinematic. The lantern-lit walk, the live music, the atmosphere—it ranks among my all-time favourite restaurant settings. A pity, then, that the food didn’t quite rise to the occasion. Still, when the stage is this spectacular, you’re almost willing to forgive a slightly under-seasoned tagine.
The Attention To Detail
In design alone, the attention to detail is extraordinary. This isn’t the kind of place you visit to scroll Instagram—if anything, your phone becomes an unwelcome distraction. Look up: the ceilings alone deserve admiration. Intricate, hand-crafted, and steeped in history, they’re a tribute to the generations of artisans who helped shape this iconic property.
The Churchill Bar is a masterclass in detail-driven design. The bar top itself is a clever tribute—modelled on Winston’s signature Homburg hat, turned upside down. It feels both playful and opulent, perfectly in step with the hotel’s storytelling style.
In true La Mamounia fashion, even the ice cubes are elevated. Made from mineral water, they’re a small but telling detail—one of only two hotels in Marrakech to do so. It’s a quiet nod to refinement, where even the frozen water in your Negroni gets the five-star treatment.
Surprisingly, the sun loungers fall short of the otherwise impeccable standards. Covered only by a towel, they quickly become uncomfortable—more frame than cushion. It’s a small detail, but an important one in a hotel where relaxation is the main event. Proper padded covers would make all the difference.
The Good, Bad & Ugly
Worth It? Yes. A reassuringly expensive and truly unique experience—just don’t test their tolerance for constructive criticism.
Stay Here for a luxurious, tranquil escape in opulent surroundings—steeped in history and character, with (mostly) impeccable service to match.
Don’t Stay Here For comfortable pool lounging, sleek modern furnishings, or cutting-edge design. This is a step back to the 1920s and ’70s—reimagined with a contemporary twist on classic decadence.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Luxury Reviews Says 8/10
La Mamounia, Marrakech: Is This Iconic Palace the Pinnacle of Luxury—Or Just a Very Beautiful Mirage?
The Hotel
As with all ultra-luxury stays, it’s worth booking through a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor. I usePropeller Travel. Perks often include upgrades, resort credit, and breakfast for two.
La Mamounia’s story begins in the 18th century, when a Moroccan Sultan gifted the estate to his son as a wedding present—a gesture that set the tone for centuries of extravagant hospitality. Today, it remains one of the world’s most iconic hotels, where history, design, and service unfold with cinematic grandeur.
The lobby alone is a study in legacy: Winston Churchill sketched here, Alfred Hitchcock found inspiration here, and King Charles III has been a guest. The atmosphere is opulent without being overwrought—more storied palace than museum, and none the worse for it.
Step into the gardens and you’re met with twenty acres of serene, meticulously maintained greenery. A team of seventy tend to the estate’s olive trees, towering palms, orange blossoms, and fountains with near ceremonial care. Though the Medina is just a short stroll away, within these walls, it all feels reassuringly distant.
The First Impression 10/10
La Mamounia offers airport transfers in a high specification Range Rover—because, of course it does. After navigating the lively streets of Marrakech, you arrive at a discreet gated entrance where the mood shifts instantly. Uniformed staff appear as if on cue to collect your luggage and usher you past security with barely a pause.
Outside, a small crowd of hopeful tourists lingered at the gate, angling for a glimpse inside. Their access was politely—but firmly—denied. One or two looked positively scandalised. And frankly, that only made the arrival feel more exclusive.
We were guided past the reception desk and invited to take a seat on the sumptuous red velvet sofas just beyond. As credit card details were discreetly taken, a tray arrived with almond-flavoured milk and dates—an elegant welcome that quietly sets the tone for the stay ahead.
The Vibe and Who are You Likely to See There?
This is old-world luxury with a North African soul—dim lighting, wood-panelled ceilings, and generous helpings of velvet, gold, and burnt orange. The original Moorish residence was transformed in the 1920s into an Art Deco sanctuary, and subsequent updates have layered on hints of 1970s glamour and more contemporary polish. The crowd? Think rich American families and impeccably preserved French high society—here to escape the cameras and recover, discreetly, from their latest face lift.
The Rooms 8/10
La Mamounia offers 135 rooms, 71 suites, and 3 private riads—all rich in Moroccan flair and undeniably luxurious. These aren’t your polished-but-forgettable chain hotel rooms. Each space blends intricate local design with modern comforts, delivering real character and a sense of place. From mosaic-tiled bathrooms to carved woodwork and plush fabrics, no two rooms feel the same—and that’s entirely the point.
Luxury Reviews stayed in an entry-level room. If you value outdoor space or a view of the gardens and city, I’d steer clear—these rooms tend to feel a bit boxed in and miss out on the best of La Mamounia’s scenery.
La Mamounia offers a variety of rooms and suites to suit different tastes and budgets. It’s worth booking through a Virtuoso agent like Propeller Travel—they know the property and can often secure upgrades, dining credits, or breakfast. Little extras that make a noticeable difference without the fuss.
Rooms come with high-end touches like Porthault bed linens, plush bathrobes, and slippers. You’ll find a Nespresso machine, plenty of bottled water, plus dates and chocolate cake—kept topped up regularly.
Huge TVs offer global channels and built-in streaming apps—definitely a step up from Winston Churchill’s era. Wireless charging pads and reliable Wi-Fi are modern essentials, too.
The Facilities 9/10
There’s a well-equipped fitness centre with calming garden views, and two pristine clay tennis courts if you’re feeling energetic—or simply want to channel your inner royal on holiday.
The twenty acres of gardens deserve more than a passing stroll—especially after a long lunch or indulgent dinner. Fragrant with orange blossom and lined with olive trees, the grounds have drawn artists for generations. The light shifts throughout the day, casting new moods over every pathway, fountain and bloom. No two walks feel quite the same—and that’s precisely the magic.
A small private cinema tucked just off the lobby screens films twice daily. It’s an unexpectedly cosy hideaway, with plush seating and an old-world feel—perfect for an afternoon escape from the sun or a post-dinner wind-down that feels a world away from your usual hotel amenities.
La Mamounia Spa is the kind of place that makes an impression. Think vaulted ceilings, flickering lanterns, and the scent of orange blossom hanging in the air. The facilities include both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, traditional hammams, and a Jacuzzi set in one of the most ornate corners of the hotel. This section is open to all guests and well worth carving out time to enjoy—it’s indulgence on a cinematic scale.
That said, Luxury Reviews’ experience with the spa treatments themselves was less impressive. Service lacked the polish expected at this level, and small oversights—timing, attentiveness, and overall flow—detracted from what should have been a highlight. It’s a reminder that even the grandest spas must deliver substance as well as style.
The spa was, regrettably, the only part of La Mamounia where service fell well below expectations. It was not just inattentive—it bordered on rude. We were left waiting in the indoor pool area for our scheduled appointment, only to realise we had been entirely forgotten. When we approached the reception desk, there was no apology—just a hurried ushering through registration and the changing rooms, before being deposited in a treatment room with no ceremony.
At no point did the experience feel relaxing. Despite being on time, we were treated as though we were the ones at fault. The atmosphere was rushed, impersonal, and entirely out of step with the otherwise exceptional hospitality found throughout the rest of the hotel. It was a sharp—and unfortunate—contrast to the serenity the spa promises.
The Service 9/10
With the notable exception of the spa, service throughout La Mamounia was exceptional—friendly, warm, and utterly polished. Smiles are generously offered here, not rehearsed, and the welcome feels genuinely personal.
On returning to the bar on the second day of the stay, I was greeted by name before I even reached the host stand. Without hesitation, I was led to the same table I had favoured the day before. Given the volume of well-heeled guests passing through this storied lounge, that level of attentiveness was quietly remarkable—and deeply appreciated.
Service at La Mamounia is unobtrusive and discreet, delivered with the ease of a well-practised ritual. Everything unfolds at a considered, unhurried pace—as if time itself has decided to take a holiday. There’s no need to rush here. The outside world can wait while you’re cocooned in effortless, old-world indulgence.
When I raised my concerns with the spa manager, the response was surprisingly defensive—my experience was, I was told, simply my perspective. At this level, that felt dismissive. Rather than addressing the issue quietly, the situation escalated into an uncomfortable discussion in the lobby. It was an unnecessarily sour note in an otherwise polished stay.
The Dining 9/10
Breakfast is served buffet-style at Le Pavillon de la Piscine, a dedicated pavilion overlooking the hotel’s grand pool—an undeniably elegant setting to begin the day. Alongside the usual array of high-quality breakfast staples, à la carte options include Moroccan pancakes and a warmly spiced egg tagine. Traditional tea is poured with theatrical flair, adding a touch of ceremony to your morning. For something lighter, Le Salon de Thé in the gardens offers a more serene, pared-back start.
Lunch is available buffet-style at the poolside pavilion, with additional à la carte options offered across the hotel’s other restaurants. Whether you’re grazing between swims or settling in for something more refined, there’s no shortage of choice.
The bars are a standout feature of La Mamounia and easily among the highlights of any stay. Le Bar Majorelle buzzes in the evening with a live jazz trio and a crowd that’s equal parts glamorous and intriguing—ideal for discreet people watching over a finely mixed Negroni. For something more intimate, slip into The Churchill Bar, a dimly lit homage to the man himself, styled like an old train carriage with rich wood paneling and vintage detailing. All the bars offer an extensive cocktail and wine list, and the accompanying nuts and olives are far too elegant to be called bar snacks.
Le Bar Majorelle occupies the hotel’s elegant front terrace and becomes a lively lunch spot. Visiting tourists often pause here for a drink or light bite, gazing over the manicured gardens that feel more English country home than North African oasis. People-watching is half the appeal—though at these prices, you’d be forgiven for expecting your Perrier to come with a foot massage and a handwritten note from Yves Saint Laurent.
For dinner, the hotel offers Italian, Asian, and traditional Moroccan options. The Italian restaurant, L’Italien, and the Pan-Asian L’Asiatique are both led by highly regarded culinary teams bringing expertise and innovation to their menus. Both are housed within the main building, where service was excellent and the food confidently above average.
But it’s Le Marocain that steals the show. Set in its own ornate pavilion in the gardens, this is destination dining at its most cinematic. The lantern-lit walk, the live music, the atmosphere—it ranks among my all-time favourite restaurant settings. A pity, then, that the food didn’t quite rise to the occasion. Still, when the stage is this spectacular, you’re almost willing to forgive a slightly under-seasoned tagine.
The Attention To Detail
In design alone, the attention to detail is extraordinary. This isn’t the kind of place you visit to scroll Instagram—if anything, your phone becomes an unwelcome distraction. Look up: the ceilings alone deserve admiration. Intricate, hand-crafted, and steeped in history, they’re a tribute to the generations of artisans who helped shape this iconic property.
The Churchill Bar is a masterclass in detail-driven design. The bar top itself is a clever tribute—modelled on Winston’s signature Homburg hat, turned upside down. It feels both playful and opulent, perfectly in step with the hotel’s storytelling style.
In true La Mamounia fashion, even the ice cubes are elevated. Made from mineral water, they’re a small but telling detail—one of only two hotels in Marrakech to do so. It’s a quiet nod to refinement, where even the frozen water in your Negroni gets the five-star treatment.
Surprisingly, the sun loungers fall short of the otherwise impeccable standards. Covered only by a towel, they quickly become uncomfortable—more frame than cushion. It’s a small detail, but an important one in a hotel where relaxation is the main event. Proper padded covers would make all the difference.
The Good, Bad & Ugly
Worth It? Yes. A reassuringly expensive and truly unique experience—just don’t test their tolerance for constructive criticism.
Stay Here for a luxurious, tranquil escape in opulent surroundings—steeped in history and character, with (mostly) impeccable service to match.
Don’t Stay Here For comfortable pool lounging, sleek modern furnishings, or cutting-edge design. This is a step back to the 1920s and ’70s—reimagined with a contemporary twist on classic decadence.
Luxury Reviews 
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