Palais AMANI

In the middle of pretty Arab-Andalusian gardens, the Palais Amani has easy living down to a 'T'. Enjoy a royal hammam treatment at the spa or a rose water massage on the rooftop terrace - which then doubles as a fantastic location for sunset drinks overlooking the Medina. On chillier evenings, sip on a silky red from Meknes in front of the fire. In the starlit courtyard or one of the dining rooms, the Eden restaurant serves Fez's famous cuisine with menus featuring spice roasted poussin and slow-cooked tagine.

The rooms are contemporary, fresh and colourful with eye-catching paintings, plush beds and dual air-cons. They range from cosy rooms with a view of the garden or medina to the suites, which have a spacious lounge, dressing room and ornate furnishings. Some have an additional single room and the Grand Suite occupies the entire south wing. The most luxurious are the Misriah Apartments, which are spaced out across two floors with authentic zellige tiling and a large, well-appointed bathroom.

The palace is steps away from the bustle of the Fes el Bali medina, where you'll browse the souks for textiles and spices to your heart's content. Explore the winding streets to find the world's oldest tannery, the royal palace of Fez and the stunning mosques. Hike into the foothills of Mount Zalagh, visit the Roman ruins on a day trip to the 1st-century city of Volubilis and learn the art of Arabic calligraphy from a master. If you'd like to whip up a few classic Fassi dishes of your own, join the chef for a lesson.