Palais Namaskar

This modern Moroccan resort sprawls over twelve acres of gardens and reflecting pools with decadent villas that are ideal for couples looking for an indulgent hideaway.

• The sunlight-filled villas, which are a contrast to Marrakech’s often dark rooms
• The rooftop bar where a DJ spins music with an accompanying light show on weekends
• The daily yoga classes and on-site trainer who will accompany guests on runs
• That you can feel a world away from the Medina although it is only a 30-minute drive.

Located in the Palmeraie, Palais Namaskar was created by a Frenchman who loves Morocco as well as modern European comforts. The 41-room property covers twelve acres of gardens and pools, where bougainvillea flows over stucco walls and lanterns reflect in the pools at night like a shimmering constellation. From entering the main villa, where there are both indoor and outdoor lobbies, it is clear that this is a more modern take on Morocco. Enormous Murano glass chandeliers hang from the ceilings and fireplaces are elaborately carved with arabesque flourishes but the seating is sleek and low-slung. The designer, a Franco-Algerian who trained with Philippe Starck, mixes local craftsmanship with a more global minimalist aesthetic. He plays curves and arches off of hard edges in a way that glamorizes the interplay of old and new.

At night in a reflecting pool, you may catch a mirrored view of a chandelier in front of the fireplace in a way that is ancient and totally modern at the same time. All of the rooms feature fireplaces and pools, and the smallest rooms (44 square meters) in the property are among the largest in the city. With fifteen suites, ten villas and two palaces, the hotel emphasizes privacy and indulgence. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the spaces with natural light, which is unusual at the top properties in Marrakech, and the interiors feel more modern than Moroccan with marble floors, leather chairs and wood block tables. Feng shui masters consulted on the property, and each room feels like a world unto itself. And given the fact that Palais Namaskar is a thirty minute drive from the center of Marrakech, many guests do retreat here and rarely leave. They can take advantage of the Thai and gourmet French restaurants on property, which are among the best in the area; the lovely spa; and the daily yoga classes and on-site trainer.

Couples who are looking for a spoiling retreat or romantic getaway at very private villas but are less interested in exploring Marrakech, which is too far away for frequent visits.