In the winding streets of Marrakech’s Kasbah district, where history and modern life converge, there’s a sanctuary that effortlessly bridges the gap between the past and present. The Kasbah district of Marrakech, like many other parts of the former imperial city, positively hums with energy. Taxis weave and wind through narrow streets, market sellers tirelessly hawk their trinkets, and pot after pot after pot of sweet mint tea is brewed and shared between friends.
I’m talking about La Sultana Marrakech, a luxury five-star hotel that’s more than just a luxury five-star hotel; it’s a living gallery, a place where centuries-old craftsmanship meets contemporary refinement. La Sultana Marrakech is a collection of five riads combined to create a 28-room luxury hotel with an intimate spa, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Marrakech, and richly decorated interiors that showcase impeccable Moroccan style and craftsmanship.
The hotel is located in the southern section of the Medina, close to palaces, museums, and souks. It's an ideal base for many of the city's sights. La Sultana is based in the Kasbah, a walled complex in the south of the Medina that was previously the royal palace complex. As such, it's close to a number of major sights, including the Saadian Tombs (which can be seen from the sprawling roof terrace), and Bahia and El Baadi Palaces.
The Kasbah district of Marrakech is known as the Royal Quarter and holds a special place in the city’s rich history. Established during the reign of the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century, the Kasbah was designed as both a political and military hub. Its strategic location near the city’s southern gates provided an ideal position for overseeing Marrakech’s sprawling medina and safeguarding the royal palace.
In its earliest days, the Kasbah served as a self-contained city within a city. It housed the ruling elite, military commanders, and key government officials. The area was fortified by strong walls, ensuring that the seat of power remained protected. The El Badi Palace, commissioned by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur in the late 16th century, symbolizes the golden age of the Saadian dynasty. While the palace now stands in ruins, its remaining structures still hint at the grandeur and opulence that once defined the Kasbah. The Saadian Tombs, rediscovered in the early 20th century, offer a glimpse into the artistry and intricate craftsmanship of the period, featuring ornate marble chambers and elaborate tilework.
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Beyond its royal connections, the Kasbah has always been a place where history and daily life intermingle. Local markets, mosques, and quiet residential streets blend seamlessly with historical landmarks, creating a vibrant, lived-in neighborhood. Today, the Kasbah district stands as a testament to Marrakech’s storied past. Visitors who wander its narrow streets and bustling souks can still feel the echoes of the city’s royal history, making it a fascinating neighborhood that bridges ancient traditions and modern-day life.
La Sultana combines four traditional Marrakchi courtyard mansions into one contiguous complex, and in so doing creates one of the medina’s most complete luxury hotels. All that makes for plenty of space to spread out, and the pools, fountains, courtyards and rooftop terraces are seemingly endless. There’s marble everywhere, and the traditional brickwork creates a signature texture. And the service is no less impressive than the physical edifice itself.
Here’s a detailed look at what makes La Sultana Marrakech an unforgettable destination.
Our Serene Arrival
Arriving at La Sultana is akin to uncovering a hidden gem. Its entrance, understated and easy to miss, gives no indication of the extraordinary experience that lies inside. Guards in traditional Moroccan attire (red tarbouches perched neatly atop their heads, flowing cloaks draped elegantly) stand sentinel at the door. The reception area is calm and sparse. But, once inside, the noise of the medina fades, replaced by the soft sounds of a courtyard fountain and the rustle of palm leaves overhead. Check-in is swift and welcoming.
As we settled into one of the many verdant courtyards, the concierge offered us mint tea and a plate of sweet dates, a simple yet authentic gesture that immediately set the tone for our stay. A credit card for incidentals was exchanged for a room key and dedicated smartphone for our dedicated butler. La Sultana Marrakech is not a single building but a collection of several interconnected riads, each with its own courtyard. This architectural approach makes it feel less like a traditional hotel and more like an expansive, luxurious home. Each riad has its own personality, and as you move through the property, the design evolves. New colors, patterns, and textures greet you at every turn. The courtyard at the heart of our riad featured a lush garden with vibrant flowers, towering palms, and a serene fountain. Around it were arched walkways lined with ornate lanterns that cast playful shadows in the evening light. The interplay of natural elements and intricate architecture created a sense of harmony that was both calming and invigorating.
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A Suite Like No Other
Our room was a Deluxe Suite and it was a masterpiece in itself. Themed around elephants, the suite exuded a regal charm that felt simultaneously grand and intimate. The centerpiece was the bed, framed on either side by sculpted ivory tusks, each carved with intricate patterns that told a story of artistry and history. At approximately 850 square feet, the suite offered an abundance of space. A sheer curtain separated the bedroom from the living room, which was furnished with plush couches and elegant armchairs. The living room opened onto a private balcony that overlooked the courtyard and pool. The bathroom was a haven of luxury, featuring dual sinks, a deep soaking tub, and a rainfall shower. Clarins bath products added a touch of indulgence, and the soft lighting created a spa-like ambiance.
La Sultana hosts 28 rooms spread throughout the riads. Each one has it's own distinct style. There's the moody, broody terracotta walls and African artwork of Riad Scheherazade, a distinct contrast to the airy white marble and cacti that surround a turquoise splash pool in Riad Bahia. The rooms and suites themselves are the epitome of luxury. We stayed in a spacious suite off Riad Bahia, with a reception room, leading on to the bedroom and bathroom. The suite is equipped with all the necessities, and plenty more besides. Mini-bar, tote bags, panama hats, slippers, the lot. The bed itself is arguably the most important factor in a hotel stay. Ours at La Sultana was a sprawling four poster, so high we had a step next to it to ascend. It truly felt like experiencing a night as royalty. Usually the bathroom is purely functional, however at La Sultana it is extravagant, opulent. Ours came equipped with two gold sinks, and a spacious tub surrounded by ornate pillars and arches.
Culinary Excellence
Dining at La Sultana was a highlight of our stay. Each meal was an opportunity to savor the vibrant flavors of Morocco while enjoying the elegance of the hotel’s setting. Breakfasts were particularly memorable, served in the open courtyard or one of the beautifully appointed dining rooms. The buffet was limited but offered a selection of fresh pastries, seasonal fruits, and local specialties, while the à la carte menu featured perfectly prepared egg dishes. We had dinner at the hotel on our first evening, and the experience was as much about the ambiance as it was about the food. The menu showcased traditional Moroccan dishes, reinterpreted with a contemporary flair.
The most memorable culinary moment, however, was the cooking class. Led by a chef who had spent more than 20 years at La Sultana, the class provided a unique opportunity to learn the secrets behind Morocco’s iconic lamb tajine. The chef’s patience and passion were evident as she walked us through each step, from peeling tomatoes to selecting spices and assembling the tajine. By the end of the session, we had not only created a delicious dish but also gained a newfound appreciation for the culinary heritage of Marrakech. The class was a deeply personal experience, made all the more special by the chef’s warmth and willingness to share her knowledge.
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I’m not normally one to dine in hotel restaurants, preferring instead to head further afield and explore. However, you’d be remiss not to book at least one meal at La Sultana. The hotel has three restaurant options. Le Table du Souk sits stop the sprawling rooftop, serving lunch from 12:30-4pm. Past this, the rooftop transforms into Odette, a bar and restaurant serving up mezze small plates as the sun sets. We chose to dine at rooftop restaurant Le Table du Souk for lunch. Tucked into a quiet corner of the expansive roof terrace, it's a chic, modern Moroccan inspired space. Green zellige tiles cover the floor and tables, pairing nicely with rows of green cushions and foliage. As someone who's favourite colour (bordering on obsession, which you'll know if you've seen the many green rooms of my home) is green, I highly approve. The menu focuses on Morrocan flavours and local producers, with dishes inspired by the Market and Moroccan street food.
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Unfortunately we had an early flight, so were forced to skip the breakfast buffet. However we were able to order breakfast to our room before we left, from a concise menu of pastries, eggs, and juices. We filled up on scrambled eggs, bacon, mushrooms and fresh pastries to fuel up before our travels.
Service That Goes Above and Beyond
What truly sets La Sultana apart from other luxury hotels is its unparalleled level of service. From the moment we arrived, the staff demonstrated an intuitive understanding of our needs. Each guest is provided with a smartphone to contact their dedicated butler, who is available around the clock. Our butler was exceptional. He coordinated dinner reservations, arranged transportation, and even delivered a surprise birthday cake. When I fell ill during our stay, he went out of his way to purchase electrolyte drinks and check on my well-being; actions that went beyond any reasonable expectation. This level of care and attention left a lasting impression and underscored the hotel’s commitment to making each guest feel valued and cared for.
A Gateway to Marrakech
La Sultana’s location in the Kasbah district places it within easy reach of Marrakech’s most iconic attractions. One of the most memorable excursions was a food tour through the Kasbah. Led by a knowledgeable guide, Mehdi, we wandered through markets that weren’t quite bustling due to it being the first night of Ramadan. You could tell that people were starting to get a bit hangry; we witnessed a couple of strained interactions between locals; even the cats were starting to get in each others fur. However, stalls were open for sampling olives, sardines, and freshly picked strawberries. We were privileged to break the fast with our guide on our first evening. Sitting together as the sun set, we shared dates and bowls of harira soup, a comforting and flavorful lentil dish. Afterwards, we made our way to a rooftop restaurant, where we enjoyed stunning views of the city while sipping mint tea. This tour gave us an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of Marrakech’s residents and the culinary traditions that define the region.
Just an hour-and-a-half drive out of Marrakech you find yourself in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, so we opted to join a group tour heading to the Ourika Valley. The highlight of the trip was the scenic walk up to the waterfall itself, located in the heart of the valley. The walk took us along the banks of the river, where we were flanked the entire time by gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. The stroll was short (and somewhat treacherous), but when we arrived at the waterfall in one piece, it was a truly beautiful sight, with crystal-clear water cascading down a rocky cliff into the deep pool below.
As part of the day trip we were also taken to an argan oil cooperative, where you can see how this oil - which has become a major Moroccan export in recent years - is produced from the nuts of the argan tree. Despite being a bit of a tourist trap, with guides selling argan products to take home as souvenirs, it was fascinating to learn about the traditional methods the Berber women use to treat and extract the oil.
We also visited the home of a traditional Berber family - an indigenous people from North Africa - which was a great opportunity to experience the local culture first-hand. We were welcomed into their home, learned about their daily lives living off the land, and were treated to some delicious homemade food with freshly made bread on hand to help mop up a portion of local honey, almond butter and, of course, argan oil.
The trip to the Ourika Valley was a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse ourselves in the tranquil pace of Morocco’s countryside.
Hotel Facilities
Though the quiet corridors and maze of courtyards gives La Sultana a boutique feel, it has all the amenities of a fully-fledged luxury hotel experience. There are multiple pools scattered throughout the property. The biggest sits surrounded by brick arches in a sun-soaked courtyard. There's also a splash pool in Riad Bahia, a spa pool, and a further pool on the rooftop. Speaking of the spa, the tranquil space offers a classic Moroccan Hammam, jacuzzi, sauna, beauty centre, hairdresser, and massages.
- Multiple pools
- Spa with Hammam, jacuzzi, and sauna
- Rooftop terrace
- Three restaurants
- Cooking classes
- Dedicated butler service
A Lasting Impression
As our time at La Sultana Marrakech came to an end, we couldn’t help but reflect on the moments that made our stay so memorable: the serene mornings spent in the courtyard, the indulgent breakfasts, the warmth of the staff, and the sense of connection we felt to Marrakech’s history and culture. This hotel is a masterpiece of design, service, and cultural immersion. Its blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and modern luxury creates an atmosphere that is both inspiring and deeply comforting. For couples seeking a romantic retreat, travelers interested in exploring Marrakech’s rich heritage, or anyone who appreciates the finer things in life, La Sultana Marrakech is an experience that should not be missed.
We left with a profound appreciation for the artistry, hospitality, and beauty of this incredible property. La Sultana isn’t just a hotel-it’s a destination in its own right, one that invites you to discover the magic of Marrakech and carry a piece of it with you long after you’ve departed.
The Details
La Sultana Marrakech is located just a 15-minute drive from Marrakech Menara Airport. Many of the city’s most famous attractions, such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and the Saadian Tombs, are within walking distance or a short taxi ride away.
Rooms at La Sultana come at a premium price, reflecting the unparalleled level of luxury and service you’ll receive. When in Morocco, you'd be amiss to not stay in a riad. These traditional stays offer rooms around a central courtyard, and are one of the best ways to experience Moroccan hospitality. La Sultana blends the luxury of a five star hotel with the intimacy of a riad, with 5 interlinking riads each with their own distinct personality.
Bottom Line La Sultana Marrakech is a collection of five riads combined to create a 28-room luxury hotel with an intimate spa, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Marrakech, and richly decorated interiors that showcase impeccable Moroccan style and craftsmanship.
Ultimately, La Sultana offers a truly charming stay, in some of the most beautiful surrounds I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. I hope this La Sultana Marrakech review has been helpful.
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