Kech Boutique Hotel & Spa

Set against a desert road lined with small palm trees and scraggly grass, the hotel has a commanding presence. Its squat, sand-colored facade looks to be a cross between a fortress and an office. Corporate-looking fountains frame the marble stairs leading to the entrance. Inside, the lobby is spotless and chic, with a stylish combination of cream floors with bold, red and black walls. Brass sculptures and modern abstract art adorn the space, giving it an upscale look. But the polished appearance is more pristine than inviting. On the other hand, the large, sun-drenched outdoor swimming pool invites all-day lingering. Centered in the middle of the complex with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas -- and a barman who will bring delightful afternoon or evening drinks -- it's easy to see why loungers can fill up quickly. Guests can take breaks from the sun in poolside indoor lounge areas, which are airy and simple with white rugs and beige seating. The restaurant is bolder and colorful, with plush jewel-tone furnishings, black stone walls and ceilings, and dramatically oversized cylindrical lamps. Guests range from younger, single travelers to couples, all keen on doing a mix of Medina-exploring and sunbathing. 

The hotel is surrounded by roads and dirt fields, but it also has a nice view of the blue-ridged Atlas Mountains. Night clubs and restaurants are within about a 10-minute walk, but no real sightseeing attractions can be reached on foot. The vibrant Medina is 10 minutes by car -- offering access to myriad markets, foods, and entertainment, and a chance to haggle in the brilliantly chaotic souks. Marrakech Airport is a 10-minute drive, while Jardin Majorelle is about 15 minutes by car. The Ourika Valley is about one hour and 20 minutes away by car. 

Guest rooms and suites are airy and sophisticated, with a palate of serene earth tones punched up with brightly colored artwork, throw pillows, and blankets. The combination of pale gray walls and stone floors with dark-wood furniture has a soothing effect -- perfect for unwinding and readjusting after visiting the hectic Medina. The most basic Superior Rooms are on the ground-floor and have air-conditioning, double-glazed windows, satellite flat-screen TVs (though it's tough to find English-speaking channels), safes, and free (spotty) Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are beautifully tiled in beige marble, and have modern hairdryers and shower/tub combos. Sofas and extra beds are available on request. Some rooms and suites have private balconies or terraces with Atlas Mountain views. 

The hub of the hotel is it central pool; the turquoise freeform pool is bordered by greenery sprouting from planters, several loungers, and multiple white sun umbrellas. A little footbridge connects the sundeck to a tiny island of landscaped vegetation in one corner of the water. After a dip in the pool, guests can enjoy craft cocktails and other drinks in the hip bar/lounge, where the long bar has plenty of comfortable stools -- the prices are quite high, though. The occasional DJ can be found spinning tunes here. The clean, modern spa offers massages, a hammam, and beauty treatments, and it's decorated with some nice Oriental touches -- yet it still looks a bit like a window-less dentist's office. The restaurant serves Moroccan and international cuisine, including tagine with meat, fish dishes, and plenty of vegetables. Breakfast -- a selection of fruits, yogurt, croissants, and breads with jams -- is free but gets mixed reviews. A small on-site gym also has three cardio machines for guests' use.