Even right in front of the new sanctuary, there is no sign on the entrance. Just a small drawing of a rosemary bush. Quick thinkers deduce that this could be the key to the Rosemary Hotel. And so, after ringing the unobtrusive bell, the gate opens and we step into this beautifully renovated palazzo.
A staff member greets us discreetly and the check-in is straightforward. Traditional tea is offered in the courtyard while we admire the works of art by LRNCE.
If you’re not familiar with the LRNCE label here’s a quick introduction: Since 2015 Laurence Leenaert (originally from Belgium) and her husband Ayoub Boualam (from Morocco) create carpets, vases, pictures, furniture, plates, tiles and even a few items of clothing in a particular design that is – well, highly recognisable. Visit their Instagram page LRNCE and you can get a nice overview.
Admittedly: We are fans ourselves and art by LRNCE is on display in quite a few Pretty Hotels member properties.
But back to the hotel: About a year ago, Laurence & Ayoub were given the opportunity to purchase this historic palazzo and turn it into a very luxurious B&B. Even though the two are newcomers to the hotel business, they immediately understood the credo of a guesthouse: it is a place to discover – especially the culture of Morocco and of Marrakech in particular.
Laurence says: “We want to hold workshops here and spend evenings together with guests from all over the world. So we wanted to give them the opportunity to spend the night here.”
The riad is in fact a work of art in itself. Laurence and Ayoub asked friends and craftsmen from various Moroccan cities to redesign individual elements of the house – floors, walls and bathrooms, which in the end are reflected in the DNA of the LRNCE brand. Everything blends into one another very harmoniously.
Architects as well as art directors will love this place for sure.
The rooms
All rooms face the inner courtyard. This means that they are not too bright – but you feel like living in a big house with the other guests (which is the idea).
Of course, you can also admire LRNCE’s artworks and objects in the rooms. In addition there is a cosy lounge with a fireplace on the ground floor where you can relax and browse through magazines and coffee table books. Upstairs we found a beautiful patio with beach loungers and tables for breakfast – or a lovely sundowner.
WELLNESS
Downstairs on the ground floor they even installed a beautiful hammam, which you are welcome to use. Matching and stylish Rosemary slippers are waiting for you in the wardrobe.
CULINARY
With the rising sun breakfast is served in the morning on the terrace. We loved it. You can look out over the city, enjoy the first rays of warmth and savour freshly prepared local delicacies. Honey, batbout, jams, tea and coffee, healthy juices and fruit with yoghurt.
ENVIRONMENT
The riad is located in the south of the old town, in the centre of the narrow streets. There are three very nice restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Rosemary staff can guide you. The main square, Djeema el Fna, is about 15 minutes away on foot. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the Majorelle Gardens are more to the north of the city – around 20 minutes by taxi.
GOOD TO KNOW
Marrakech is not Munich. The old town is still a work in progress, a potpourri of narrow streets, shops and houses, not all of which are in the best condition. Even on the street to Rosemary Marrakech, you will be approached by traders, motorbikes drive through the narrow alleyways and there are building sites, which can also be next to the house.
Price
Doubles from around 220 euros per night including breakfast.
Booking & Contacts
Riad Rosemary Marrakech
25 Rue de la Bahia
4000 Marrakech
Morocco
