On an early flight from Casablanca to Barcelona, I was pleasantly surprised when a flight attendant addressed me with the term, **"Young man, would you like something for breakfast?"** It had been a while since anyone referred to me as 'young', and I found the experience both strange and delightful. This trip to Morocco has cast a spell on me that I didn't anticipate. The contrasting cities of Marrakech and Casablanca have worked their magic, allowing me to shed a decade off my age, as I've engaged in various activities that rejuvenate my body and spirit, all thanks to the exceptional hospitality of the hotels within the Royal Mansour Collection.
Upon arriving at Royal Mansour Marrakech for lunch, I was greeted with an array of beautiful breads accompanied by butter. The French-inspired cuisine by Chef Helène Darroze was evident, and I was treated to a surprising salmorejo topped with cecina. My first thought was that I would need to train hard to indulge without guilt in these delightful dishes. Thankfully, the next surprise was equally delightful: my private Riad on the third floor featured a pool where I could take a refreshing dip after some mobility exercises instead of succumbing to the tempting afternoon nap. Each guest at Royal Mansour Marrakech enjoys their personal Riad, an exquisite Moroccan house with three floors: the first floor boasts a lovely patio and salon for receiving guests, the second houses an immense bedroom with various dressing areas and an equally impressive bathroom, and the third features your own pool with a sun terrace, exclusively for you.
Royal Mansour Marrakech is designed as a grand palace, meticulously crafted with the finest work from local artisans. The gardens, designed by Spanish architect Luis Vallejo, are a labyrinth of beauty featuring 150 fountains and over 500 pieces of contemporary art, along with a spa that spans 2,500 square meters, making it impossible to remain in the room for long. Eager to explore Marrakech differently, I laced up my running shoes and requested a route from reception for a peaceful jog through the quieter areas of the Red City. It was in the Parc de la Jeunesse that I encountered fellow runners, and after completing my 10 kilometers, I was rewarded with dinner at The Nest, an exclusive private table nestled high among the treetops of the stunning gardens, where Moroccan salads paired beautifully with creative cocktails.
After a restful night, I embarked on an adventure through the narrow streets of the medina on a sidecar, leading us to one of Marrakech's hidden gems: the legendary Casa de Serge Lutens. This private palace, nestled in the heart of the city, is an exclusive experience available only to Royal Mansour guests. We had the opportunity to explore this architectural masterpiece, witnessing the world of famed designer and perfumer Serge Lutens, which hosts one of the most significant collections of African art.
After enjoying my private Riad pool, I indulged in culinary delights at La Grande Table Marocaine, where we learned how to prepare pastilla with seafood under the guidance of the hotel’s executive chef Jérôme Videau, and savored a delicious lamb dish slow-cooked for over 20 hours. I ensured to maintain my fitness routine by utilizing the hotel gym before heading off to Italy for dinner at Sesamo, helmed by the prestigious chef Massimiliano Alajmo, the youngest chef to earn three Michelin stars, taking us on a Mediterranean culinary journey without needing to board a plane.
Beyond the evident luxury, the true standout at Royal Mansour Marrakech is the personalized attention that goes beyond expectations. The Moroccan hospitality is genuine, and even the little things—like remembering that I prefer protein-rich scrambled eggs with plenty of smoked salmon for breakfast, accompanied by cold oat milk coffee—make all the difference.
Transitioning from the palatial entrance of Royal Mansour Marrakech to the art deco hall of Royal Mansour Casablanca is a mere 240 kilometers, a journey of about three hours that completely shifts the atmosphere. While Marrakech offered tradition and rest, Casablanca buzzes with modernity and activity until your smartwatch runs out of battery. This coastal metropolis is the economic heart of the country, vibrant and international, and I felt like I was embarking on a new adventure.
It's impossible to avoid cinematic references, especially since the piano player at Royal Mansour Casablanca has them on his welcome playlist, and the decor pays homage to film, fashion, and art. Unlike Marrakech, where Riads reign, here you find elegant suites equipped with the latest technology, designer furniture, and curated art books. The gym and spa at Royal Mansour Casablanca cater perfectly to someone like me, featuring an impressive selection of strength and cardio machines, sauna facilities, and a stunning indoor pool, allowing me to get some upper-body training in after my runs in Marrakech.
With the magnificent Hassan II Mosque as a backdrop, one of the most breathtaking views in the city awaits you at the 23rd floor restaurant La Grande Table Marocaine, where Moroccan cuisine is reinterpreted amid live traditional music. A floor above, Le Rooftop features a DJ, cocktails, and international fare, including sensational Parisian-style cheese fries. For night owls, Casablanca boasts an exciting nightlife with performances from Spanish artists like Rosalía and Enrique Iglesias.
With slightly puffy eyes from the late-night adventures, I made my way to La Barbière de Paris on the 20th floor for a rejuvenating experience. This exclusive service, in partnership with the renowned Parisian grooming brand created by Sarah Hamizi, effectively took off those ten years. A fresh haircut, a close shave, and a facial massage rejuvenated my appearance, perfectly complementing my renewed energy. For lunch, I indulged in Japanese cuisine at Le Sushi Bar, adding a touch of cool to the trip.
With my new look, feeling ten years younger, we concluded our journey at the city’s trendy beach club, Corniche, where young, stylish crowds gathered over glasses of champagne, snapping photos against the sunset. This was Casablanca in all its glory.
As reported by menshealth.com.
