Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca

Rest, recuperate and relax at Le Spa, which offers signature honey-infused treatments, deep muscle massages, and a magnificent Swiss-style hydrotherapy pool. Then, behind a wall of greenery, discover the heated pool with its private cabanas for enjoying a fruit skewer or refreshing sorbet. Dining options are plentiful, from breakfasts of French toast topped with chocolate-hazelnut sauce and drinks round the fireplace, to dinners at the stylish Bleu, which serves a mean menu of seafood and Moroccan delicacies. Otherwise, the poolside cafe often hosts chilled-out summer barbecues.

Done in muted colours and a tropical yet modernist style, each room's most loved feature is the view, which you'll enjoy from the floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony. Inside, Moroccan influences are evident in the brass detailing, zellige-inspired fabrics, and pendant lamps. The bathrooms are decked out in sleek, grey marble, and the King-sized bed is topped with your choice of mattress. Suites have a separate living area and an increase in size and luxury levels; some even have a dining area (indoor and outdoor), two balconies, and 180° ocean vistas.

The fun begins right in front of the Four Seasons, on one of Casablanca's most beautiful and surfable beaches - and there's a surf school just next door as well. For culture vultures, follow the trail of extravagant cathedrals, Art Deco facades and palm-lined boulevards into the centre of Casablanca and grab some souvenirs at the Marche Centrale market or discover the city's history at one of the numerous museums. If you're in town on a Sunday, head to Rick's Cafe for a cocktail and some smooth jazz.