This was the first place I ever stayed in Morocco years ago-in fact, it was the first stylish, upscale retreat in the Palmeraie, masterminded by talented owner Meryanne Loum Martin. If your idea of Marrakech is all bustling market places and crowded streets, it’s time to redefine the city. Jnane Tamsna is totally serene, with nine acres of gorgeous herb and vegetable gardens, indigenous plants, olive trees and date palms. The hotel comprises many villas, containing 24+ guest rooms; take up residence in one room or book an entire spacious villa with a group of friends-the largest can accommodate up to 20.
Like the exteriors, the interiors have a deceptive simplicity with plaster walls, kilm floors, iron and wooden furnishings evoking a sense of old-world Marrakech. Owner Meryanne’s love of art is in evidence everywhere, with interesting photographs and paintings decorating the villas-it feels like you’re staying with a friend. Meryanne and husband Gary (a world famous ethno-botanist who’s responsible for those lovely gardens) live on the property, and meet and greet each and every guest. Tucked away in the gardens, you’ll find a heated swimming pool with adjoining yoga room, a TV and video room, clay tennis court, and a small spa with treatments and products based around local plants. Activities range from yoga classes to reflexology, massages and mountain biking, leaving you barely enough time to sit down and soak up the soothing and exotic atmosphere. Lunches and dinners, served in the dining room, fireside in the living room, or al fresco on the patio, are prepared using ingredients from the garden and are unfailingly delicious.
Great for a solo relaxing trip, with family & friends or romantically as a couple. That’s unique! Truly suits all very well. There is a new villa with private pool now available to rent by room or in its entirety. I picked out all kinds of things I’d love to have in my house-just gorgeous.
Room rates from $370.
Insider tip from Mr & Mrs Smith, one of my trusted sources:
“Jnane Tamsna has a programme of residential events, including spa retreats, culinary courses, literary salons and children’s activity weekends; these must be booked in advance.”
Get more tips, see photos, and book the guaranteed best rate on Mr & Mrs Smith:
www.mrandmrssmith.com/jnane-tamsna
Hay Mohammadi | Marrakech 40007 Morocco
Suzanne Aaronson, Co-founder of Suzanne’s Files, is our Travel Curator. Stay in-the-know on her latest finds and insider tips by signing up to receive Notes from Suzanne’s Files, a free e-newsletter.
