La Sultana Marrakech: Sleep in a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Visiting Marrakech gives you the feeling of being transported into a different world, overwhelming your senses at every turn. It is a city swirling with culture, diversity, exotic cuisine and exquisite architecture. It is a city that seduces treasure hunters, history lovers, epicureans, designers and anyone who sets their eyes on the vibrant colors that surround them. No surprise, then, that La Sultana Marrakech, located in an ancient building named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has made it to the top of our list of favorite hotels — the property embodies every bit of what we love about this magical place.

Family-Friendly Review of La Sultana Marrakech

Tucked down its own little alley, just steps from the main attractions of the city, La Sultana is ideally located for a visit to Marrakech. As you enter, you are greeted with traditional Moroccan mint tea and made to feel like royalty. This treasure of a hotel knows the value of spoiling its guests: outdoor areas that create an oasis from the busy markets; the panoramic rooftop terrace looking over the Medina and the city’s monuments; intricately designed suites.

Accommodations

The hotel hosts 28 bedrooms or suites, each with its own design and decoration offering a unique feeling of authenticity, luxury and elegance. Adding to the rich heritage of the property, rooms are sophisticated and detailed with high, vaulted ceilings, intricately carved wood accents and luxurious marble bathrooms.

There are no connecting rooms available, but extra beds can be brought in for the kids. Some suites have a master bedroom area that can be closed off from the living area with a curtain. Preferred rooms can be guaranteed upon booking.

All rooms have king-size beds, soundproofing, air-conditioning, satellite TV and free WIFI. A non-alcoholic mini-bar is available at no additional cost.

TIP: It is important to note that some of the rooms are in the style of a riad, a traditional Moroccan house with a central patio and windows facing the interior rather than outdoors. If you prefer rooms with more natural lighting, book the deluxe suites with private balconies.

Dining

La Table du Souk is the courtyard garden restaurant used for lunch and breakfast. To start the day, choose from a menu with a selection of homemade foods, including a basic buffet. For lunch, guests are offered the best from the markets and Moroccan street food.

La Table de La Sultana, open every day for dinner (weather permitting), is set up in the patio or on the rooftop and offers Moroccan- and French-inspired fine dining. The chefs take pride in using the best ingredients in Morocco, with “100 percent botanical” options, ethically sourced local meat and fish, and fresh vegetables purchased locally or handpicked from their own organic garden. Breads and pastries are prepared and baked daily at the property. This is a wonderful time and perfect setting to enjoy the hotel’s robust selection of French and Moroccan wines.

Amenities

Perhaps my favorite aspect of La Sultana is the spa. The Sultana Spa offers two hammams, a whirlpool tub and a sauna. Being in this exotic ambience erases any trace of the outside world. I would also advise taking the time for a massage from one of the highly skilled therapists.

Traditional Moroccan cooking lessons are offered every morning at 10:30. The class begins in the Spices and Pots room, showing guests the mint tea ritual, before you prepare the meal and head to La Table du Souk to enjoy your creation.

There is a heated pool in the main courtyard as well as a plunge pool on the rooftop terrace. You can also enjoy a gym, a misted solarium, a bar, a gazebo, a pool table, a library and a boutique onsite. The hotel offers laundry services, a concierge and 24-hour room service as well. Babysitting is available upon request.

When to Go

The best time to travel to Marrakech is in the spring and fall, when the temperatures are at their most desirable and the plants are lush and flowers are in bloom.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Morocco on Ciao Bambino

5 Outrageous Things to Do in Morocco with Teens

Tips for visiting Marrakech with kids

Tips for planning a trip to Morocco with kids

Family-friendly sustainable tourism in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains

A cultural gift over lunch on a family tour of Morocco

Editor’s Note: Laurel received a media package to review La Sultana Marrakech for families. As always, our opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Laurel Perry.