Thinking of travelling to Morocco? Check out Morocco's Most Unique Luxury Hotel
After a long few months, we’re delighted that the Moroccan borders reopened recently to UK travellers. Where better to enjoy this wonderful country’s hospitality than at the unique, luxurious Selman Marrakech - an elegant palace rising out of the desert at the foot of the dramatic Atlas Mountains.
Renowned Parisian architect Jacques Garcia’s designs will overwhelm you with a sensual welcome, from the 55 stunning rooms, suites and villas to the colonnaded portico entrance and the magnificent 80m pool in the manicured gardens and the hotels unique stud farm, home to a private collection of stunning Arabian thoroughbreds.
The entire hotel pays tribute to the elegant Arabian horses that reside in the paddocks and stables. ‘Selman’ was the original sire of a line of purebred horses, and the owners of Selman Marrakech, a Moroccan family, have chosen to recreate this awe-inspiring equine lineage as well as recreate the golden age of Moroccan culture within the property.
Originally from Saudi Arabia, Arabian thoroughbreds were introduced to Morocco in the 7th century. Selman’s private breeding programme is unique, and many of the horses have won prestigious international prizes.
The hotel works alongside the School of Equestrian Arts of Marrakech to offer dressage and liberty experience to students and participation in equestrian shows within the hotel gardens. The School was founded to promote the diverse uses of Berber and Arab-Berber breeds, the emblematic horse of Morocco, and to train young Moroccans in the disciplines of classical dressage, aerobatics and liberty.
Signature Breakfast
Guests can visit the magnificent stables designed by Jacques Garcia, and the grooms take pleasure in showing off the beautiful horses around the hotel grounds. During their stay, guests will also have the chance to watch young artists train.
Every Sunday, guests are invited to the famous brunch at Le Pavillon, in the heart of the hotel’s lush gardens, whilst a parade of Arabian thoroughbreds perform and show off for them. Revel in the beauty and grace of these magnificent stallions, whilst tasting fine local specialities and international dishes.
The four restaurants and two bars are festive and convivial, with an eclectic culinary experience to work with everyone’s dietary requirements, health regimes and mood.
One of only 5 hotels in the world to have a Chenot Spa, the facility at Selman Marrakech offers a new approach to regaining rhythm and balance for mind and body. The 1,200m2 spa is reminiscent of a traditional Turkish bath and includes seven treatment rooms, four hydrotherapy rooms, a hydro-massage pool, two heated outdoor pools, a gym and a spa boutique.
The Spa programmes, developed over 45 years by Henri Chenot, can take place over 2-3 days, based on individual assessment. Personalised treatment plans will target specific issues such as anxiety, fatigue and weight amongst others. Alongside the treatments, a specific diet is created and Chenot diet, built around light food such as fruits, vegetables and animal protein, is served in Selman’s restaurants in order to assist the detoxification process.
The Spa also offers traditional rituals such as the classic black soap scrub with a Hammam, and a detoxifying Rhassoul natural mineral clay wrap.
