What it is

A 12th century estate now with 206 rooms and three riads, four restaurants by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, a hammam-stocked spa, golf, and so much more.

What it isn't

Newly reborn. The property has been luring well-heeled glitterati since it opened in 1923; Sir Winston Churchill dubbed it “one of the best hotels I have ever visited.”

What we think

For some, La Mamounia is synonymous with Marrakesh itself: there is simply no other place to stay. When you first walk into your guest room, you know why; each one is as luxe as they come, with Porthault bed linens, bathrobes by Garnier Thiebaut and design details that are thoroughly of their place, including ornate arched furniture and carved finishes at every turn. For an extra cinematic experience, book one of their six Signature Suites; the two-bedroom Majorelle Suite has its own terrace set beside flourishing and fragrant gardens, and the third floor, two-bedroom Churchill Suite which is—you guessed it—where the man stayed on his frequent visits here. (Note the mahogany-lined dressing room.) While you’re here, be sure to stop by Pierre Hermé’s Tea Room for afternoon tea—complete with lobster rolls and light as air madeleines.

You're here because

You’re an ardent cinephile, and love that this hotel played roles in Hitchcock’s ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’ and hosted everyone from Francis Ford Coppola to Charlie Chaplin.

The Moment

Bollinger champagne is always exquisite, but tonight—in Le Churchill, a dimly lit cocktail bar that feels like a train car—it’s transportive. You can’t help but order another round of Beluga caviar...it’s that kind of place, and the bar’s namesake was that kind of man.

Restaurants & Bars

Le Marocain - traditional and modern Moroccan cuisine

Le Francais - French

L'Italien - Italian

Le Pavillion - Swimming pool restaurant

Wine cellar with over 3,500 bottles

Location

In the age-old Medina district, a 24 minute walk from Bahia Palace—built circa 1859 and now a museum with 20 acres of lush gardens.