Carrying the scars of the budget-conscious – bedbug bites, mozzie welts and that general itchy, uncomfortable feeling that comes from staying in less-than-salubrious digs, we left windy Essaouira for our return to vibrant Marrakech and some five star treatment.
Arriving at Maison MK in Marrakech’s medina (Dan’s birthday surprise for me), I understood immediately why it’s near the top of the list on Tripadvisor and wondered just how amazing the higher rated hotels must be because this place was sensational!
From the beautifully laid-out rooms, ambient lighting and calming décor to the orange and cinnamon-scented oil burners, the cool terrace overlooking the medina and the top notch in-house restaurant, the small touches and attention to detail here blew us away: complimentary ipods in the room loaded with chilled music, the use of a local mobile phone for the duration of our stay, freshly brewed coffee waiting outside our door every morning, cake and mint tea every afternoon by the plunge pool; even a private movie room, complete with huge screen, cinema quality surround sound system, comfy lounges and of course, popcorn delivered by the staff while you’re watching your film (sweet or salty, your choice).
The vibe is so, so relaxed…it’s been described as ‘barefoot five star’ and that description sums up our experience perfectly.
It comes as no surprise that I had the most relaxing birthday ever: breakfast on the terrace, a touch of sunbathing, a traditional hammam scrub and massage, an afternoon nap, then a chilled red overlooking the city followed by five-course tasting menu in a beautiful, private cushioned room adjoining the main restaurant.
We also did a Moroccan cooking course at Maison MK, learning how to make traditional Moroccan salads, khoobz (bread) and a delicious lamb tagine with couscous . . . . . happy days when we get back to Oz and our own tagine pot gets a proper workout!
Truly spoilt. I’m actually feeling younger.
Good to know
Maison MK is located in Marrakech’s ancient medina, a true oasis in this bustling city. A beautifully restored riad, the hotel has just six bedrooms but also boasts one of the city’s best restaurants (Gastro MK) and a luxury spa offering traditional hammam treatments and contemporary therapies; both of which are open for external bookings. This place is pure indulgence and perfect for a special occasion; visiting in July, we made the most of the low season rates.
See our other posts on Morocco for more stories and pics from this amazing country.