Best Luxury Hotels in Rabat

Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr is more than just a luxury 5-star hotel, it is a place of outstanding beauty and occupies one of the most recognisable and historic landmarks in the Moroccan capital. The 200-room luxury hotel was originally built in the 18th century as the summer residence for Sultan Moulay Slimane, and with its prime position overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it rightly became known as the Palace by the Sea (Kasr Al Bahr). The restoration of the historic site has been done with the utmost level of taste and care. Moorish architectural elements such as domed rooftops, arched doorways and fountained courtyards sit alongside contemporary furnishings.

Covering five hectares, the hotel is expansive and presents guests with a serene sense of space. Key facilities include six different restaurants and bars, three swimming pools, an ocean-view fitness centre, and a traditional spa. Guests, with children can also make use of the hotel’s ‘Kids for All Seasons’ programme and a selection of small boutiques. City Tours and workshops with local artisans can be arranged for guests wishing to discover more about the local culture.

A comfortable transfer distance (approx 15km) from Rabat-Salé Airport makes this hotel an excellent choice for a quick break with culture and luxury at its core.

Recently rebranded from Villa Diyafa, STORY’s new design concept blends Moroccan architecture with Andalusian accents, inspired by the life and work of musician Zyriab. Guests are accommodated across 27 bedrooms, 10 suites and a private villa, all with Tchaba tea and coffee making facilities, minibars and a balcony or terrace. This is complemented by leisure facilities incorporating a traditional spa with hammam, a state-of-the-art gym and a 25-meter swimming pool, as well as Le Safran Restaurant, where Taliouine Saffron is the headlining spice. The hotel is part of the UAE based STORY Hotels & Resorts, with four sister properties.

186 forms of accommodation range from chambers to three-bedroom residences at this ocean-side abode (including rooms adapted for people with reduced mobility). All come with La Bottega toiletries, 50-inch flat-screen HDTVs, Nespresso machines and twice-daily service. Decor has a Moroccan feel but with a modern design. The Fairmont caters ably for families (including four-legged friends) and has an immersive spa, as well as boutiques for a spot of retail therapy. Dining takes place at The Deck, The Foam and Dahlia, the latter specialising in contemporary Levantine cuisine. And La Verrière, with its apex glass ceiling, is a stunning spot for cocktails.

Having launched in the mid-twentieth century, this 229 bedroom hotel was taken over and redeveloped by the Sofitel chain in 2009 – its stunning 16 acres of gardens are its namesake. The city’s Moroccan and French heritage is reflected in the plush styling. More a resort than a hotel, it has three restaurants, two bars, two palm-flanked outdoor pools, one indoor pool, designer boutiques, a designer spa with a hammam, sauna and hot tub, a yoga and pilates studio and a Technogym. Families are well catered for, with a kids’ club, special menus, welcome gifts and a children’s spa menu.