Hotel Du Golf

The Hotel du Golf lives up to its name, with a 27-hole golf course on the property, as well as a clubhouse, pro shop, and golf instruction. This draws large groups and conferences, which can give a crowded “clubby” feel to the bars, restaurants, and common areas. There is a large pool with decorative palm islands in the center, although loud music plays poolside all day, which makes the vibe less than restful (as does the race to reserve poolside lounge chairs in the morning). Elsewhere on the grounds, Balinese sun beds can be found for quiet relaxation. The lobby is stunning, with high ceilings, beautiful modern versions of kilim carpets, furniture fit for reclining, and cool hanging light fixtures with paintings on the inside. The atmosphere is visually striking, although not cozy. Outside the lobby, there is a long terrace that looks like something out of either ancient Babylon or current Hollywood, lined with palm trees and clusters of rattan sofas and chaises. The Hotel du Golf has the big things covered, but the details, at times, slip through the cracks as the staff gets overwhelmed by large groups all wanting immediate service.

The Hotel du Golf is located in the Palmeraie, a quiet area outside Marrakech with nothing in the immediate area except other resorts. The medina is about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. The resort runs a free shuttle to and from the old city during business hours. Marrakech Menara International Airport is 40 minutes from the hotel.

Rooms at the Hotel du Golf are spotless, sleek, and beautifully designed, with modern furniture, wood floors, and walls painted beige with accents of lime green that add a healthy, refreshing air to the spaces. Each room has a furnished balcony with cafe table and chairs, and rattan sofas; most rooms have pool or golf course views, and all have flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers. The bathrooms are exceptional, with windows between bedrooms and bathrooms, and slatted blinds for those who want more privacy. Many rooms have spectacular oval tubs; some have separate shower stalls. Twin rooms have shower only. Adjoining rooms are available for families traveling together.

The Hotel du Golf’s centerpiece is its 27-hole Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course, although greens fees are not included in the room rates.The huge Palmeraie Spa offers a variety of Eastern and Western body treatments and massage, as well as beauty treatments and fitness classes, including spinning, and an indoor pool. The spa is located at the neighboring Golf Palace Hotel, a 10-minute walk away. The hotel restaurant is avant-garde in design with an open-plan kitchen, but food is served buffet-style. The spacious lobby lounge has furnishings by Philippe Starck, and is a cool spot to have a drink.