Palais Imperial

The name Marrakech means "Land of God", and is the third largest city in Morocco. The city is divided into two distinct parts: the Medina, the historical city, and the new European modern district called Gueliz or Ville Nouvelle. Sofitel Marrakech Paliais Imperial has an architectural blend of moorish appeal, plush oriental carpets that cover the courtyard leading to the entrance with arches, interior fountains, regal lounge areas, with its extravagant lobby area, where the statue Jeme El Fna has pride of place. Located in the city centre, with a view of the surrounding Atlas Mountains, this hotel combines the charm and romance conveying a feeling of days of past with all modern conveniences.

Accommodation at the Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial :

The rooms reflect modern architecture with traditional flair and accents. Plush fabrics reflect the natural aura outside, including sandy browns of the medina walls, pale pinks from the blossoming geraniums and soft yellow hues of the desert sands. With 348 rooms, most with a balconies and mountain views, a luxurious pool, fragrant gardens, and splashing fountains.

Entertainment, fine dining and relaxation are of highest priority with 3 theme restaurants with Moroccan or international menus, as well as conventional European, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare. 2 friendly bars, a disco and a magnificent spa to recharge your batteries. For the more energetic get your cardiovascular going in a modern fitness centre, featuring a outdoor pool with cooling spray fountains, a heated indoor pool and Turkish bath. For the workaholic the hotel provides a business centre with, Copy, print, fax, Internet and translation services. There are shops just off the lobby, but guests will probably prefer to do their souvenir shopping at the nearby souks, where the atmosphere is exciting and the prices are much better.

Sofitel Marrakech Paliais Imperial is within walking distance of the medina, Jamma El Fna square, La Koutoubia Mosque, Palais El Badia, Quartiers Des Tanneurs, Musee Dar Si Said, Opera de Marrakech (symphony hall) and Jardins Majorelle (botanical gardens).

A French painter, Jacques Majorelle created this renowned botanical garden in the 1920s, and later owned by Yves Saint-Laurent (the designer's ashes are now scattered there). After a morning wandering the tiled walkways and admiring the fragrant flowers, and abundant bird life, linger in the garden cafe over warm plates of Moroccan pancakes with honey and small cups of sweet tea. Then spend time in the garden's intimate Islamic art museum, filled with pottery, paintings, jewellery and carpets, many of which were part of Saint Laurent's personal collection.

Comfortable surroundings, full amenities and a central location make this a good base hotel for exploring Marrakech.