Taking Off

by travel-expert José Berrocoso

www.fourseasons.com

A GARDEN SANCTUARY

Perfectly situated between the city’s ancient medina and the cosmopolitan neighbourdhoods of the Ville Nouvelle, Four Seasons Resort Marrakech welcomes you with a blissful retreat up to 16 hectares filled with Moorish gardens and refreshing pools. Experience true relaxation at the Moroccan spa, let the kids play in their very own kasbah and take in views of the Atlas Mountains from your pivate terrace.

Nestling in the Menara Gardens - created in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad dynasty – Four Seasons Marrakech couldn’t be better placed. It’s close enough to the snake charmers, market traders, rich smells and cacophony of sounds of the souks, but far enough to indulge in sunrise yoga classes and relax in the tranquility of an opulent enclave. The hotel design and layout reflects Morocco's architectural heritage and culture. The stylistic interpretations of classical design combined with modern luxury to provide an authentic experience that felt easier to enjoy than some of the older more established ‘riyadh’ hotels in the heart of Marrakech. This elegant Moroccan medina is calming and comfortable, private yet inspiringly open. Revel in savvy Four Seasons Resort Marrakech service as you relax, reflect and recconect. Discover a refreshing new way to experience exotic Marrakech.

FEEL AT HOME AWAY FROM HOME

The resort complex consists of pink-toned pavilions that are low enough that you’ll never miss the sweeping vistas of the snowy Atlas Mountains. Take refuge in one of the 139 elegant rooms, equipped with all the high-tech comforts of home. Each of the chic and comfortable guest rooms features a blend of traditional furnishings and contemporary elements — think Moroccan handicrafts, state-of-the-art technology (phone docks, universal chargers, DVD players and more) and deep, cozy duvets. Luxurious touches include in-room fireplaces, separate dressing rooms and Swiss marble bathrooms. Each of the 139 luxurious guest rooms and suites has private balconies with views of the Menara Gardens and the Atlas Mountains. The two-bedroom private residences boast the ultimate in luxury living with a central courtyard, a plunge pool and a private garage. And our recommedation is the Paviliion Suite. It has its own plunge pool and is perfect if you need both an office and a home away from home. If you're here for leisure, you'll enjoy the additional space and comforts.

FOOD DESTINATION

From the modern Middle-Eastern restaurant Inara to Quattro, the Italian restaurant focused on southern Italian cuisine, the food concepts here are imaginative and executed with flair. Highlighting the Moorish influences on southern Italian cooking, Quattro serves up Sicilian couscous with scorpion fish alongside fresh orange and olive salads, tiger prawns with paccheri pasta, and child-friendly pizza. Likewise, on the Atlas-facing terrace of Inara, classics such as chicken tagine sit beside Lebanese mezze and seared seabass with Berkoukche rice flavoured with saffron and preserved lemon. Located in the lobby, Inara Bar and Lounge offers intimate indoor and outdoor settings for guests to enjoy light meals, traditional afternoon tea and cocktails throughout the day. As one of the resort's best meeting spots, Inara is the place to see and be seen in Marrakech. Open when weather permits, the rooftop lounge, set atop Bleu d'Orange in the centre of the resort, creates an atmosphere of chic relaxation, with spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains and breathtaking sunsets overlooking the Menara Gardens. In a casual setting overlooking the resort's adult pool, Azzera features a fresh selection of grilled meat and fish specialties, while an à la carte menu offers an choice of sandwiches, snacks and international favourites. The restaurant's alfresco setting provides an ideal place to enjoy a casual lunch or an ice cream treat between laps in the adjacent pool. In the evening, Azzera is a laid-back spot for an informal dinner, with themed menus available throughout the high season.

WELLBEING HAVEN

In the middle of the gardens, beyond the fullystocked non-stop-fun kids zone with its own pool and entertainment area, is Le Spa, designed by Marc Vanden Bossche. A 3,000m² Moroccaninspired temple of relaxation, its fifteen treatment rooms, saunas, and plunge pools are a perfect way to end the day after traversing the narrow paths of the souks and admiring the majesty of the Koutoubia Mosque and its historical minaret. A traditional Moroccan hammam can be organised, a must for any visitor to the country. All the treatments are inspired by authentic Middle Eastern traditions and modern Western therapies. The spa also features a hammam and a beauty salon. Special teens' and kids' treatments are also available. The resort houses a full-service Fitness Centre, which features two separate rooms, one for cardiovascular training and another for free weights, floor work and circuit classes. Individual training, kixboxing, kickboxing, jogging with a professional, advanced step class, power stretch, pilates and yoga classes are all available individually or in groups.

TRAVEL WITH YOUR FAMILY

Exotic and mysterious, Marrakech is an exhilarating playground for adventure and one of the world’s greatest family destinations. You and your little adventurers can discover many stimulating opportunities to learn and have fun. And the wonderful Four Seasons Resort Marrakech concierges have some perfect plans to enjoy with the family: Jemaa El Fna Square, Definitely one of the most intriguing playgrounds for kids! During your shopping times in the fascinating souks of Marrakech, get your kids to assist you in seeking out the best souvenirs to take home. Everyone needs a henna tattoo in Marrakech. Let your children choose their own design: from little stars and scorpions to more traditional Berber symbols - a nice and ephemeral souvenir for them to show off back home! Adventurous lovers will love to ride on the back of the desert king, the camel or take the control of a quad for few hours. A great way to introduce children from all ages to a new culture is to get them hands-on experience with a cooking class. Every week, our Kids Club organises gourmet moments where children can learn how to cook their own Moroccan bread or the secret recipe of Moroccan mint tea.