Palais Ronsard

Though located a mere 20 minutes outside the bustling center of Marrakech, Palais Ronsard is like traveling back in time to an opulent French-colonial manor house.

• The lush gardens, ideal for strolling or enjoying an alfresco meal
• The six private pavilions, each with their own swimming pools
• The French-influenced cuisine, some of which is sourced on-premises in the hotel’s gardens

Opened in March of 2019, this grand, colonial-inspired hotel features 22 rooms and suites, as well as six private pavilions. The hotel is situated on several acres of manicured gardens, olive groves, and colonnaded galleries: a true garden oasis in the desert. Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted with a breathtaking double-grand staircase with a cozy bar to the right, and beautifully designed restaurant to the left. The design is interwoven with Moroccan, European and regional décor elements which create a regal, but decidedly warm atmosphere. The service, as to be expected, is intimate and attentive.

Each room and suite is themed and decorated in its own unique style, from décor to textiles, all of which feature a different bird motif. Book the suites on the second floor, as they’re a bit more private, being further away from the restaurant and pool. The first floor is for rooms only, all of which are generously proportioned (the smallest is over 400 square feet). For those seeking true privacy and luxury, there are six pavilions spread across the property, each with its own private pool.

The hotel is clearly oriented toward adults, in both ambience and activities. Although they accept infants up to two years of age, the hotel does not allow for children under 12. Don’t miss the small but beautifully appointed hammam spa and treatment rooms, for both singles and couples.

Note that starting in 2020, the hotel will be closed in August.

The Palais Ronsard is ideal for couples or friends who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech’s busy Medina. It would be an excellent addition to a broader Morocco itinerary.