EPICURE LOOKBOOK
The Oberoi, Marrakech presents a tale of two cities. Vibrant arts and culture, world-class golf courses and fashionable night life, juxtaposed with spiritual mystique, beautiful gardens, Andalusian architecture and traditional souks.
The Oberoi, Marrakech
Imagine walking into a lavish green space perfumed by the natural sweet fragrances of citrus orchards. With 28-acre land of olive groves juxtaposed against the pristine white snowcapped Atlas Mountains, this is the new Oberoi, Marrakech.
Announcing the opening of the resort, P.R.S. Oberoi, executive chairman of The Oberoi Group, said, “We are delighted to announce the opening of The Oberoi, Marrakech. We look forward to extending The Oberoi Group’s presence in one of the world’s most exotic destinations.” Adding to this, Fabien Gastinel, general manager of the resort said, “Every facility at The Oberoi, Marrakech is being planned to create a flawless experience for our guests. From the luxurious rooms to the dining options; all aspects of the resort will offer our guests unparalleled luxury with exceptional service which is warm, personalised and heartfelt.”
Opened on December 1, 2019, this new resort is 25 minutes from the Djema el-fna square and the ancient walled city. It’s only obvious, then, that a touch of this magnificent history will reflect upon the resort’s architecture as well.
LUXURY VINTAGE
Inspired by Moroccan architecture, The Oberoi Marrakech could easily be considered an ode to the history of the city. There are 84 luxurious rooms, suites, and villas which allow guests to soak in the building’s beauty in their own space. For an added layer of luxury, 76 of these rooms even house private pools and private gardens.
And, instead of facing the Atlas, as the main structure does, the villas are set in small clusters and turn inwards for privacy. “This mirrors traditional Moroccan culture, which clearly delineates between public and private spheres, but guests who want that view would do well to book one of the six first-floor rooms with their floor-toceiling windows. The view from the terrace of the Royal Suite is quite simply the most stunning in Marrakech”, shares Gastinel.
Zellij (mosaic) tiles ripple around columns like a glossy greenish-blue wave, while above, white stucco walls swirl with three-dimensional geometric patterns of interlocking stars and arabesques that must have required a chisel as fine as a toothpick to realise. Human hands touched every inch of the space, embodying Morocco’s finest living traditions. “In addition to hand-carved cedar domes, selected colour accents and complex geometric designs adorn the elegant interior. On wall panels you will find Arabic wisdoms such as “El Afia El Bakia”, which stands for eternal health and is wished for all guests,” says Gastinel.
Inspiration for the courtyard came from Marrakech’s greatest Islamic monument, the 16th-century Medersa Ben Youssef, a college dedicated to the teaching of theology, Islamic jurisprudence, literature and science. It’s fitting that this homage is flanked by an elegant cedarwood library and sometimes classical oud concerts are played in the harmonious void.
PAMPER YOUR MIND, BODY AND SOUL
This same opulence extends to its three restaurants Siniman, Tamimt and Azur. Featuring diverse International and Moroccan culinary experiences, any discerning guest is sure to be spoilt for choice. The bar and terrace overlooks the extensive gardens and panoramic mountains, making it an ideal space for a romantic meal.
Take a stroll down the gardens which have been geometrically designed according to the ancient metaphorical belief that in heaven, spiritual order quells the wild disorder of nature. The flowerbeds are arranged in thematic clusters, and filled with aromatic plants and succulents. Then swing by the ancient olive groves and citrus orchards, where native Mediterranean cypress trees provide cool shade during the heat of the day.
An oasis of peace and a haven of tranquillity, the Oberoi Spa is rejuvenation personified. The orchards surrounding a natural water body set the tone for the serene aura that radiates through the walls of the spa. An indoor pool here only elevates this feeling further. While here, guests can indulge in authentic Moroccan and Ayurvedic treatments, or even experience a Hammam in their private therapy suites.
“The Oberoi, Marrakech is a dose of old-world charm with a splattering of luxury – the ideal concoction” says Gastinel.
“In addition to hand-carved cedar domes, selected colour accents and complex geometric designs adorn the elegant interior. On wall panels you will find Arabic wisdoms such as “El Afia El Bakia”, which stands for eternal health and is wished for all guests,” says Gastinel.