Mandarin Oriental to Open Hideaway Resort and Residences in Marrakech

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is to manage a new luxurious hideaway resort and branded residences currently under development in Marrakech which is due to open in 2009. The project provides the group with an opportunity to extend its successful hideaway concept to one of the Mediterranean’s foremost cultural and leisure destinations.

The Mandarin Oriental Jnan Rahma, Marrakech, will be an intimate hideaway set amongst 53 hectares of lush palm grove in the Palmeraie region, surrounded by the Atlas Mountains, just 15 minutes away from the airport and the centre of Marrakech. The development includes 45 luxury villas which will be branded and managed as Residences at Mandarin Oriental, providing a rare opportunity for ownership in the exclusive Palmeraie.

The hideaway’s architecture is modelled on traditional palaces and elegant Moroccan residences; with ochre facades, typical of the region, blending elegantly with the lush landscape of the gardens and surrounding Palmeraie. Palms, olive trees, willows, pools and fountains abound on the property, providing an oasis of tranquility.

The 145 guestrooms are over 80sq metres in size and include a spacious outdoor terrace, ideal for private dining and relaxing in the temperate climate. All accommodations will be styled using the vibrant colours and ethnic textures of the region, with subtle touches reflecting the group’s oriental heritage.

Embracing the traditional local Moroccan custom, the hotel will feature four riads, or self-contained buildings of 16 to 20 guestrooms arranged around an interior courtyard. Ideal for special occasions, the riads can be booked by families or small groups for private events.

Alfresco dining with an eclectic selection of local and international cuisines will be provided by a variety of restaurants and bars, each offering outstanding views of the Palmeraie and the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jnan Rahma will focus on the well-being of its guests, offering holistic rejuvenation and relaxation in a serene, meditative setting. With one of the most comprehensive ranges of wellness, beauty and massage treatments available in Marrakech, the Spa will offer life-enhancing signature programmes created exclusively by Mandarin Oriental as well as specifically developed treatments inspired by local Moroccan traditions and customs. The expansive 2000 sq.m Spa will feature 15 private treatment rooms, relaxation areas, significant water and heat therapies as well as a comprehensive fitness centre and an indoor swimming pool. One of the unique features of the Spa will be its extensive hammam, an integral part of Moroccan culture.

Leisure facilities abound on property with another swimming pool set in luxuriant landscaped gardens. Extensive retail will also be incorporated into the site, offering a choice of locally designed artifacts and clothing as well as a range of international luxury brands.

A grand ballroom will cater for up to 450 people and a selection of smaller function rooms will be ideal for meetings and private dining.

The project is being developed by JK Hotels, a private Moroccan company which has conceptualised and developed some of the most outstanding and widely published projects in Morocco. The interior design and architecture is the creation of American artist/designer, Stuart Church who has fashioned many luxurious private residences throughout Morocco.

“Marrakech continues to grow in importance as a key leisure and cultural destination for upscale travellers from around the world. We’re delighted to be working with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group on creating Marrakech’s most luxurious and extraordinary development. Mandarin Oriental’s reputation for providing extraordinary experiences to its guests in exquisite surroundings is very much in keeping with our own desire to create an unparalleled level of luxury hospitality in this exceptional project.” said Mr. Jaouad Kadiri owner of JK Hotels.

See other recent news regarding: Marrakech, Mandarin Oriental