During my recent trip to Europe, we decided to escape to Marrakech for four nights, and staying at The Royal Mansour was an experience like no other. Nestled in the heart of Marrakech, The Royal Mansour is more than just a hotel—it is a luxurious oasis offering an unparalleled, personalized experience. Commissioned by King Mohammed VI of Morocco, the hotel was designed to be a showcase of Moroccan craftsmanship and hospitality at its finest. The result is a property that exemplifies grandeur while creating the most intimate and unique stay imaginable.
Fun Fact: I first visited The Royal Mansour in 2015 on my first trip to Marrakech. I went for lunch and to capture blog content with a fantastic photographer, and the place left such an impression that I’d long hoped to return.
History of The Royal Mansour
The Royal Mansour’s history is steeped in the vision of King Mohammed VI, who set out to create a landmark hotel that would exemplify Morocco’s heritage and artisan traditions while setting a new standard for luxury. Opened in 2010 after years of meticulous planning, the property was constructed by over 1,200 of Morocco’s finest artisans. The project, overseen by a team handpicked by the king, emphasized authenticity in every detail—from the intricate zellige tiles to the cedar wood carvings and tadelakt plasterwork. More than just a luxury hotel, it’s a showcase of Morocco’s artisanal heritage to the world.
Inspired by traditional Moroccan riads, the layout replicates a medina, creating an experience where every private riad serves as a miniature palace. Each combines ancient Moroccan architectural beauty with modern-day luxury comforts. Since opening, The Royal Mansour has become one of the world’s most exclusive hotels, attracting royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers seeking the extraordinary.
The Location
Set within Marrakech’s ancient medina walls, The Royal Mansour offers a perfect location for exploring the city. You’re just a short walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where lively souks, street performers, and traditional Moroccan culture come to life. Despite its proximity to the city’s attractions, The Royal Mansour remains a tranquil retreat—a haven of calm amid bustling Marrakech, offering the best of both worlds.
Arrival & Airport Transfer
The Royal Mansour’s fleet of luxurious Bentleys is available to guests throughout their stay, offering the convenience of private transfers around Marrakech. As soon as we landed, we were greeted by a chauffeur who helped us with our bags and escorted us to one of their Bentleys to drive us to the hotel. It was an incredible first impression that set the tone for the luxury to come.
The Riads
The Riads: A World of Their Own
At The Royal Mansour, the ultimate experience is the private riad. Each riad is a lavish, multi-level villa, offering unparalleled privacy and indulgence. Designed to feel like a traditional Moroccan palace, every riad is uniquely decorated, with beautiful courtyards, rooftop terraces, and private plunge pools. The attention to detail is evident in every room, where Moroccan craftsmanship shines through in every corner.
The riads feature a range of sizes, from one-bedroom to expansive four-bedroom suites, making them perfect for both couples and families. The luxurious living areas, complete with plush sofas and stunning decor, offer the perfect space to relax and entertain. The lavish bedrooms come with super-sized beds, and the bathrooms are equipped with opulent bathtubs and rain showers, allowing you to indulge in total comfort.
The Service: Above and Beyond
The service at The Royal Mansour is beyond comparison. The attention to detail and level of discretion make it truly exceptional. An underground network of tunnels allows staff to move about unseen, ensuring your privacy. The 24/7 concierge is always ready to arrange bespoke experiences, from personal shopping to private desert excursions, spa treatments, and intimate dinners.
Highlights:
- When my fiancé and I got engaged in our riad, the team was incredible, helping Ryan plan every detail so that it would be a complete surprise to me. The whole experience was magical, and they made everything feel effortless.
- When I arrived, I was greeted with a vodka soda waiting for me, and in the room, there was a bottle of Tito’s—my favorite! It’s those little details that make this hotel truly special.
- I loved the coconut shrimp served by the pool so much that I wanted to take some with me for a snack at the airport. Even though the restaurant had already closed, our concierge went above and beyond, reopening the kitchen to prepare and pack the shrimp just for me—a true testament to their thoughtful and personalized service.
The Dining Experience
The Royal Mansour offers an exceptional dining experience, with a variety of world-class restaurants on-site. La Grande Table Marocaine provides a refined take on traditional Moroccan cuisine, celebrating local flavors, spices, and fresh ingredients to create an unforgettable culinary journey. For international fare, La Grande Table Française, led by a Michelin-starred chef, offers a fine-dining experience that’s simply exquisite.
In the hotel’s lush gardens, Le Jardin offers a more casual dining experience with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, perfect for al fresco meals.
My Favorite: The in-room dining finger sandwiches and Moroccan tea were my daily favorites!
The Spa: A Sanctuary of Wellness
The Royal Mansour’s spa is a sanctuary for wellness and relaxation. The three-story spa, designed with a breathtaking white latticework atrium, feels like an oasis of calm. Guests can enjoy signature Moroccan hammams, rejuvenating facials, and massages tailored to their needs. With a full range of treatments, a heated indoor pool, and private pavilions, the spa is a blissful escape from the lively city.
The serene atmosphere, combined with expert therapists, ensures you leave feeling renewed and refreshed. The spa also offers yoga sessions and wellness programs for a holistic relaxation experience.
Ryan and I booked a couple’s massage the day after our engagement and had an incredible time relaxing with massages and a swim in the private pool.
Final Thoughts
The Royal Mansour is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. From its spectacular design and unrivaled service to its world-class spa and dining options, every aspect of this hotel has been carefully curated to offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort. If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech and want a truly royal experience, The Royal Mansour is the place to be.
For me, The Royal Mansour will always be extra special—it’s not just a hotel; it’s the place where I got engaged, and I can’t wait to return for an anniversary trip. If you’re looking for privacy, luxury, and an immersive Moroccan experience, The Royal Mansour should be at the top of your list.
