El Fenn

Tucked away down a side street, standing out from its clay brick surrounds, the arched entrance of El Fenn is marked only by a small unassuming brass sign. Its heavy black wooden door however opens up into a world that is anything but modest -- a labyrinthine complex of beautifully presented courtyards adorned with orange trees, superb original Moroccan tiling, carved cedar wood, and numerous furnishings and objet d'art scavenged from local flea markets. Vanessa Branson -- sibling of Richard -- bought the ruined riad in 2002 and after two years of painstaking restoration opened with just six rooms. With the purchase of two joining townhouses and a 2014 total renovation, the property reopened as this enchanting and exclusive hotel that has attracted a long list of stars from Gwyneth Paltrow to Gwen Stefani -- Annie Lennox is also a regular guest. The main focus, however, has always been the hotel's seriously impressive art collection that can be seen on display in various parts of the property. There's also plenty of nooks and secluded spots throughout as well as a vast roof terrace featuring magical views over the medina at night -- just be careful not to trip over one of the family of the hotel's resident tortoises. The atmosphere is romantic, refined, and true to a Moroccan aesthetic. 

The hotel is situated in Marrakech's iconic medina quarter -- or old city -- next to the Palace Gate landmark and five minutes' walk from the famous Djemaa el-Fna square and marketplace. This 11th-century UNESCO recognized district is abuzz with bustling souks, cafes, and even the occasional snake-charmer. As is the case with many such hotels, there is no direct car access to El Fenn, but parking and taxi ranks are a few minutes away on foot. Marrakech Menara International Airport is about 15 minutes' drive away. 

There are 22 rooms in the main building and an additional five in the smaller riad -- Little Sister -- a few minutes walk away, plus a private riad with four double bedrooms. Most of the rooms in the main building are spacious open-plan suites individually decorated with a gorgeous blend of vibrantly colored tadelakt (Morrocan limestone plaster), locally sourced furnishings, and vintage 20th-century pieces. Many have lofty 17-foot ceiling and others real-wood fireplaces and original artworks, while all include luxurious bathtubs and six-foot-wide beds with Egyptian cotton sheets. Scented candles and the deliberate absence of TVs and telephone make for particularly relaxing accommodation -- aided too by extra-thick walls that soundproof from the bustle outside. The best suite in the house boasts apartment-like space, hand-sewn camel leather flooring, and a private rooftop plunge pool. Wi-Fi is free. 

Rare for Marrakech, the hotel has three heated pools, two lined in Carrara marble, and a rooftop plunge pool surrounded by a huge roof terrace with wonderful views over the city. The roof is even accessible via an elevator and also has a lovely cafe and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and -- weather permitting -- dinner under the stars. The main restaurant, however, is a wonderfully moody candlelit place with a chic, arty vibe serving some of the area's finest dining. There are also a traditional hammam steam bath and massage room where fireside treatments are available with all-natural products. Peaceful courtyards provide relaxing spaces to put your feet up. Wi-Fi throughout is free.