LEGENDARY HOTELS: LA MAMOUNIA

• Home
• Stories We Tell
• Life Style

By Luisa Ricart

In a world where speed and daily demands can overwhelm us, finding places that remind us that pausing can bring harmony and transcendence are priceless treasures. In this sense, this hotel emerges as a timeless oasis, a jewel in the heart of Marrakech that has captivated travellers from across the world for 100 years. They recognise and smell each other because there is always a before and an after La Mamounia.

Some people indeed experience a bodily response to beauty, known as Stendhal syndrome, which manifests as a genuine physical reaction. This does not imply an obsession with aesthetics but rather a singular episode in the face of visual magnificence.

So, this is an article about the transformative power of beauty. We firmly believe that it can take us out of ourselves, immersing us in the present and tightening our bonds with the environment around us. It can stop us in our tracks and calm the maelstrom of a troubled mind. This magic unfolds when we allow ourselves to stop and contemplate carefully.

Since its opening in 1923, the grand dame has been more than just a hotel. It symbolises elegance, luxury and Moroccan hospitality, a haven where the past meets the present in a timeless dance of sophistication. With its exquisite architecture, lush gardens and meticulous attention to detail, La Mamounia has captivated those seeking an experience beyond the ordinary.

That said, its grandeur is reflected in every aspect of the design and, above all, the service. It boasts a majestic orchard that was a wedding gift from the Alaouite Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah to one of his sons more than two centuries ago. Its rooms and suites have played host to Moroccan nobility and legendary figures such as Winston Churchill. This shelter that protects us from the ordinary breathes history and prestige in every corner.

Renovated in 2020, while respecting its essence, this palace has been able to adapt to the times without losing its unique charm. Under the direction of renowned designers Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku, the building has been revitalised with a contemporary touch without sacrificing its timeless authenticity.

Oh, and another thing: the cuisine at La Mamounia is equally exceptional. With restaurants helmed by the French three-star Michelin chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, guests can indulge in a fusion of Moroccan and international flavours in a truly sublime setting. From L’Italien to L’asiatique, each restaurant offers uniquely sensational cuisine.

But the stories woven within its walls make this setting full of secrets extra special. From Jerry Hall and Mick Jagger’s escapades to the extended stays of the legendary Carmina Ordóñez, the hotel has witnessed countless moments of romance, intrigue and celebration over the years. On its wall of fame, photographs of illustrious clients such as Kate Winslet, Richard Nixon and Julia Roberts, along with their handwritten dedications, are a testament to the indelible mark that La Mamounia leaves on those who visit.

It is a reminder that there are still corners where we can find peace and a deeper connection with ourselves in a universe of noise and distractions. We’re talking about that which, in its excellence, seems simple, a thoughtful process and an invitation to wonder.

La Mamounia is a jewel that shines with a joyful light in the midst of Morocco’s cultural landscape.