Description
Amanjena, the first Aman Resort on the African continent, means “peaceful paradise,” (aman is Sanskrit for “peaceful,” while jena means “paradise” in Arabic). This stunning, serene hotel is set in Marrakech's Palmeraie, an oasis of palms and old olive trees just outside the city, within view of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains, the highest range in North Africa. The hotel is set out around the central feature of the ancient bassin (irrigation pool) which lies at the heart of the property.
Rooms at Amanjena are divided between 34 pavilions and seven, two-storey maisons and are all expansive and decadent in design with high ceilings, huge amounts of space and elegant Moroccan-inspired decor. The pavilions have domed living areas, open fireplaces and private courtyard with gazebos, sofas and dining areas. The maisons are like graceful Moroccan townhouses with an upstairs master bedroom and ground floor living and dining areas with connecting bedroom and bathroom. They also have lovely private heated swimming pools which generally overlook the bassin.
Amanjena's dining options are extensive, and delectable cuisine can be enjoyed at either the Thai Restaurant or the main restaurant which specialises in Mediterranean and Moroccan fare. The Pool Terrace and the bar are also other relaxed dining options or opt for a private meal in your Pavilion or Maison or a choose to eat in a romantic Caidal tent in the olive grove, accompanied by traditional music.
When not enjoying the hammam, spa, swimming pool and tranquillity within the hotel, the vibrant city of Marrakesh with its souks, gardens and historic buildings is so easily accessible as are the foothills of the Atlas Mountains where the Berber villages, farms and gentle people provide a fascinating insight into Morocco's past.
Guide price
£2,095 Per person
£2,095 per person for 5 nights, based on 2 people sharing a Pavilion, on a room only basis, including international flights and transfers.
Accommodation
Rooms at Amanjena are divided between 34 Pavilions and seven, two-storey Maisons. These are further categorised into Pavilions, Pavilions Bassin (with sweeping views over the irrigation pool), Pavilions Piscine (with 25m private pool), Maisons, Maisons Jardin (with garden courtyards) and Al-Hamra Maison. Each air-conditioned Pavilion comprises a bedroom with domed living room area, king-size bed, spacious bathroom and dressing area, open fireplace, mini-bar, private courtyard complemented by a gazebo, a lounge sofa and dining area. The Maisons are distinguished by an upstairs master bedroom and bathroom. The ground floor has a living and dining area with connecting bedroom and bathroom. They also come with a private swimming pool and gazebo. The Al-Hamra Maison is the largest available and has an extensive main pavilion with lounge and dining areas and two bedrooms which are linked by an open passageway which leads to a large garden with dining pavilions and a 36 metre swimming pool.
Childcare
Families who don't want to compromise on service and luxury accommodation will love Amanjena. Children are very welcome at Amenjena and the two bedroom Maisons with private pools are particularly well suited to families. There is a shallow section of the main pool perfect for children and kids DVDs are also available in the library. Babysitting can be arranged on request as can children's meals. Children will enjoy the pool and will be dazzled by the vibrancy of the medina and the beauty and charming people of the Atlas mountains.
Facilities
Guests can enjoy private dining in their Pavilion or Maison, accompanied by live music in a private Caidal tent or at one of Amanjena's many romantic spots. Alternatively there are two main restaurants serving authentic Moroccan, Mediterranean and Thai cuisine and the Pool Terrace and Bar where light meals, snacks and drinks can be enjoyed. Amanjena's spa offers everything from hammams to traditional Moroccan scrubs to massage and reflexology and is provides a genuine sanctuary. There is a gym, 33m heated swimming pool and separate shallow pool, adjacent golf course, 2 floodlit tennis courts, boutiques and a library with fireplace, cosy daybeds and many books, magazines, DVDs and board games.
Activities
Amanjena is perfectly placed on the edge of Marrakech so the bustling souks, palaces, gardens and historic buildings of the medina are only a short drive away. Hiking and biking in the Atlas mountains is a great day trip and the foothills are only a 45 minute drive away. Guests can also cycle in and around the city itself.
When to travel
Weather-wise, the best times to go are spring and autumn. Marrakesh is very hot in the summer months of July and August, a dry but extremely relentless heat. By the end of October the evenings are cold, although the midday sun is still warm enough to bask in. The weather in winter, from November to March, ranges from cold and rainy to sunny days, warm enough to sit outside.
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Location and directions
Marrakech Palmeraie, Morocco
Located just outside the ancient city of Marrakech, within an oasis of palms and olive trees. 15-minutes from the ancient pink walled city of Marrakech on the Ouarzazate road, next to Amelkis Golf course.
How to get there
3.5hr direct flight Marrakech. Amanjena is 20 minutes from the airport and the drive passes the king’s palace and Agdal Gardens.
