Virtuoso Best of the Best 2009 - (Page 19) AMAnJEnA Marrakech, Morocco Everything about Amanjena is mesmerizing, including its 32 sunset-hued guest pavilions, each with a woodburning sunken fire pit for romantic interludes and a terrace with a cozy cushioned seating area. The twostory maisons are like elegant Moroccan townhouses, each with inward-facing windows, a wall fountain and a marble-columned bathroom – there’s even a private pool and garden. Slip away to the full-service spa with its quintessentially Moroccan hammam and essentialoil massages, after which you’re invited to soak in a rose-petal-filled bath and sip mint tea. Be sure to explore the numerous souks, with their countless treasures. DISTAnCE FROM MARRAKECh AIRpORT (RAK): VIRTuOSO AMEnITy Lunch for two (excluding beverages), once per stay. In ThE KnOW The resort offers “souk trawling” tours – your guide knows the best shops, and can help you with bartering. 19 20 minutes AF R ICA & M ID D LE E AST KASBAh TAMADOT Marrakech, Morocco Stunning views come with every room at Kasbah Tamadot, Sir Richard Branson’s Moroccan retreat. Here in the foothills of the dramatic Atlas Mountains, 24 unique rooms and suites cater to the world’s elite travelers (consider one of the Berber Tented Suites with private plunge pool – ideal for a romantic escape). Amidst the staircases, courtyards and reflecting pools that dot the property, you’ll find the Kanoun restaurant, the Asounfou Spa with a traditional hammam, a fully equipped gym, an infinity pool and two floodlit tennis courts. DISTAnCE FROM MARRAKECh AIRpORT (RAK): VIRTuOSO AMEnITy Complimentary hammam for two, once per stay. In ThE KnOW Explore the surrounding Berber villages like a local – on one of the Kasbah Tamadot mules. 28 mi/45 km DAR AhLAM Skoura, Morocco As indulgent a setting as anyone could hope for, the 19th-century dar Ahlam leaves fortunate guests enchanted and inspired. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sahara, this Skoura retreat features sumptuous suites and expansive villas with mud-brick floors and adobe walls, decadent Moroccan cuisine, a swimming pool, hammam, Jacuzzi – even its own perfume parlor, with a selection of hand-cut soaps, body vinegars and massage oils. The Riad, a traditional Moroccan house, is located in the midst of the resort and is dedicated solely to caring for the body through myriad pampering spa treatments. DISTAnCE FROM OuARzAzATE AIRpORT (Ozz): VIRTuOSO AMEnITy Special amenity in room daily and parking for duration of stay. In ThE KnOW The hotel’s guide, Abde Samad, knows all the region’s best-kept secrets – have him take you to the Valley of Roses for a picnic. 22 mi/35 km
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