Downtown historic Marrakech would seem an unlikely place to find a tranquil oasis, but that is exactly what La Mamounia is. This hotel was built between 1922 and 1924 on the grounds of an 18th-century palace owned by Mohammed III, a sultan who used Marrakech as his capital. Not surprisingly, Mohammed surrounded his palace with beautiful gardens (thirty-two acres' worth), which are still maintained today.
It is this combination of space amidst the cramped confines of an old city that makes La Mamounia special. It most definitely influenced Winston Churchill who came every winter until 1952. The rooms in which Churchill stayed remain pretty much the same. True, much of the furniture has been reuphoistered and touched up, but their charm remains intact. You can still find many of Churchill's personal effects here ranging from walking sticks to signed Churchill oil paintings. The hotel even has a Churchill Suite that you can rent for around $1,200 a night. Nearby you'll hit upon more history in the Jman El Fna Square, a bustling tangle of markets and historic landmarks.
Even without the Churchill connection, La
Mamounia would still offer an enchanting experience. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by staff adorned in baggy white pants and pointed yellow slippers. They'll take your bags through the spacious public areas featuring marble floors, Rabat carpets, massive chandeliers, and intricate stucco arches. The hotel's public areas also include four restaurants serving everything from Moroccan to French cuisine.
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