La Sultana, Marrakech Review: A Peaceful Haven Just A Stone Throw From The Mayhem:

THE SPACE

Five 16th century Riads make up one luxurious property at La Sultana Marrakech, maintaining the typically Morrocan vibe whilst adding a feeling of space and privacy. Unlike many of the other luxurious hotels in the city, this one is actually within the Medina, so no need for lengthy cab rides to explore.

The privately owned-hotel only houses 28 rooms, so despite this being a 5* hotel of the highest quality (waiters don't let you lift a finger, the food is out of this world and the bedrooms are like boudoirs), you almost feel like you are holidaying in a private house.

The property is peppered with jewel-embossed lanterns, clean, white draped fabrics and freshly cut flowers and is kept to the highest of standards. Stand-out areas are the tranquil roof terrace, accented with terracotta tiles and star-shaped lights, and the courtyard pool area which is laden with fuschia flowers, cool cream pillars and exotic arches. 

THE VIBE

Classic Morocco meets modern day luxury meets utter tranquility. Despite being just a 15-minute walk from the main square and bustling souks, the thick brick walls of La Sultana block out the crowds and provide complete peace. The only sound you'll hear is the five times daily call to prayer - otherwise you could quite feel as if you were in the middle of the desert.

The service is attentive but discreet. Try and take a glass of water back to your table from the buffet at breakfast and it'll be placed on a silver tray to be delivered to your dining space immediately. Although conscientious it doesn't feel intrusive, and only adds to the relaxation of it all. From Moroccan tea on arrival to iced tea by the pool, the service cleverly second-guessed our needs - before we were aware of them.

THE SOCIAL MEDIA BRAG

Drinking pre-dinner G&Ts in the warmth on the roof terrace @ La Sultana #utterbliss

THE INSTAGRAM SNAP

THE HITS:

For a tiny hotel, the spa is luxurious (including a Hamam - Turkish bath) and the treatment list extensive. Therapists tap into ancient rituals sourcing traditional ingredients from the area like Argan and Prickly Pear essential oils. The Cinammon scrub left us feeling as scrumptious as the sweet, honeyed shoulder of lamb we ate in the restaurant the night before, while the full-body massage wtih Argan oil soothed, moisturised and refreshed - and eventually lulled us into a deep slumber.

A vast spread of both traditional and Morrocan fares at breakfast including home-made yoghurt, a sweet fig jam and mini semolina breads not only tasted delectable but were laid out on fresh, white tablewear and placed on elegant blue and white patterned crockery that was as delicious to the eye. Despite arriving late into the evening we managed to squeeze in a lamb tagine with honey, cinammon and apricots, which simply melted off the bone - along with light-as-anything couscous, and all washed down with a glass of fresh yet fruity Rose, finished, of course, with a fresh mint tea to cleanse.

THE MISSES

A get-away very close to perfection, with the only tiny gripe being the shower, which had a few rather wayward spokes of water (and led to a bathroom soaking). Our only other complaint was that we didn't have longer - through no fault of the hotel but a glue spillage on the M11, a missed flight and a stop-off in Marseille.

THE FINAL WORD

A true haven of tranquility, peace, luxury and privacy in the midst of the hussle and bustle of Marrakech, just a 10-minute drive from the airport. Ideally placed for an exotic weekend city break. An absolute gem.

THE DEETS

La Sultana Marrakech is a member of Great Hotels of the World Luxury Collection. For more information or to book, please visit http://www.ghotw.com/la-sultana or call 020 7380 3658.