Hotel La Mamounia

Sitting grandly in 17 acres of orchards and tropical gardens, which are lit especially whimsically at night, La Mamounia caters for every taste. Food-wise, enjoy tasty tagines, wood-fired pizzas and Italian wines in an elegant 'Trattoria' setting, Asia's finest coconut curries, and tea rooms with chocolate treats and macarons served on vintage silverware. There are a bevy of places to recline with a drink, from Le Churchill (named after the hotel's frequent visitor) to the poolside bar, sitting delicately under a floral canopy. Any pampering is seen to at the spa with its heated indoor pool, jacuzzi pavilion and rose water massages.

A seamless blend of zellige tiling and lattice detailing (showing off Marrakshi craftsmanship) with sumptuous, Art Deco furniture, La Mamounia outdoes itself at every turn. The higher you go, the more extravagant you get, ending in the suites with their spacious lounges and private balconies - some with amazing views of the Koutoubia Mosque minaret, and some the Atlas Mountains. Bathrooms are decked out in marble, while some suites also have a walk-in wardrobe and clawfoot tub. There is also a trio of beautifully-designed riads tucked away in the gardens, each with a private pool.

Some of Marrakesh's most famous sights are already visible from the hotel, including the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque and stunning Jardin Marjorelle. Head out to explore (with a guide, if you like) the ancient Medina, the Saadian Tombs, and the bustling souks of Djemaa El Fna, lilting music and the smells of frying kebabs in the air. Learn the art of carpet weaving with a local artisan, bake bread at the communal oven, and delve into the colourful life of Yves Saint Laurent at the museum.