La Mamounia, Marrakech

Having been closed for a number of years, La Mamounia in Marrakech finally re-opened its doors last autumn, and the results of its multi-million Euro total refurbishment are spectacular, with this legendary hotel restored to its former glory and more.

Acclaimed designer Jacques Garcia has transformed every corner of the hotel from the rooms to the restaurants and beyond, blending contemporary design and technology with Moroccan influences to create a grand and sumptuous ambience. Rich colours and fabrics are combined with original features such as traditional tiling, mosaics and wood cravings, which happily have been retained. Apart from the hotel's complete restoration, a significant addition is the stunning 2,500m² Spa, which will dazzle guests, an enlarged Fitness Pavilion in the gardens and a Henri Leconte tennis academy.

There is no doubt that the years of painstaking work places La Mamounia firmly amongst the ranks of the world's leading hotels once again and, happily, despite all the change and innovation it hasn't lost its soul.