Rising out of a fragrant thicket of orange trees, olive groves and lavender, the six-star Royal Palm Marrakech is located 12 kilometres from the city – close enough to explore, but far enough away to escape the hustle and cacophony of car horns and animal noises. In the near distance, the pallid peaks of the Atlas Mountains rise from the desert, overlooking the 231 (count them) acres of manicured lawns, golf courses and stunning pools. If you are looking for an oasis in the desert, you’ve surely found it at the Royal Palm.

Building on its successes in Mauritius, Fairmont operates the hotel as sustainably as possible and it is their first in Morocco, a venture that has proved extremely successful. Inspired by Berber culture and integrating the beautiful views at every possible turn, the hotel manages to blend traditional touches with contemporary design courtesy of interior designer Jean-François Adam, who has worked his magic across many luxury properties worldwide. Interiors are light and airy and flooded with natural light, shielding you from the heat of the day when it becomes a little too stifling.

Service is formal and attentive, just as you’d expect Moroccan hospitality to be; and for the experienced concierge no matter is too small, no problem too big to overcome. Their recommendations are faultless.

Rooms: 134

Location: Marrakech, Morocco

Nearest Airport: Marrakech

Board Basis: Room Only, Bed & Breakfast, Half Board

1. There’s an 18-hole golf course set amid the olive and palm groves with views of the mountains
2. It’s ideally located 12 kilometres from Marrakech and 40 minutes from the Atlas Mountains
3. The two chefs trained for twenty years in French gastronomy with some of the world’s leading chefs
4. A hotel shuttle will take you into the medina so you can shop until you drop in the bazaars
5. The kids’ centre is legendary and even has its own mini spa
6. Three swimming pools will ensure that you’ve always got somewhere for a cooling dip